Holland & holland shotgun

[Jassim313]

My friend owns a late 1800’s Holland and holland 12 gauge shotgun which was gifted to his great grandfather by his British employer. Can he register the gun under the curio rule? .He just want to keep the weapon as an exhibit.

[Ajaaybeer]

He should be able to register it under the rule reproduced as under if there is no controversy with regard to definition of the word small arm used in the rule in the mind of the clerk and official responsible for paper work.

Arms Rules 2016 - In relation to curios/ historical arms

Rule 2. Definitions. -

(17) “curio” means a small arm manufactured at least fifty years prior to the current date or certified by the curator of a Government regulated museum or that derives at least half of its monetary value from the fact that it is novel, rare, bizarre, or associated with some historical figure, period, or event and includes an antique small arm

[Jassim313]

Note:
Shotguns, sporting rifles and muzzle loading black powder firearms, though of caliber of more than 12.7 mm are also covered under small arms;

What is the exact procedure to register the weapon as a Curio ? Does he need a lawyer to do the paper works ?.Thanks

[Jr.]

Hi Jassim313,
Kindly post photos of the 12 Bore.
Is it a Black Powder Gun.
If so, then there is no option but to register as a Curio.
Reloading is not allowed/illegal in India.
Needless to say Holland and Holland guns are very well made.
These were built for use and not storage.
If the Gun is regulated for White Powder, then it should be registered as a normal Licensed Firearm.
Caution-Please have the Gun properly checked by a good Gunsmith, before trying anything.
White (Smokeless) Powder is at least 3 times more powerful than Black Powder.
The Barrel/Gun will explode, if wrongly discharged.

Regards,
Jr.