Quote Originally Posted by mel h View Post
Harry, interesting point about the Australian imports, first time that I've heard about a BSA having the proof marks, but I have heard the same of Webley Mk three's. I remember there was mention that they were done because of import duty being less for a firearm than a 'toy'. What I can not understand is why the proof house (with a strict set of rules to uphold) went along with what appears to be some sort of a fiddle. How could they legally nitro proof a barrel that has no means of being chambered with an explosive to do the test?
The toy/firearm thing makes sense as well. I can't see the pics at the moment (work computer) but, are they "Nitro Proof" marks, or just "inspectors' stamps"? I recently got an SMLE back from the proof house after a rebarrel. It hadn't even been fired; clean as a whistle.