Proofing for new unbarreled actions

[Dan Patch]

When a German firm finished an action intended for sale to another firm for completion as a usable firearm had that action been submitted to any kind of government proof testing? To ask the question in another manner did the German proof law of 1891 apply only to completed firearms? Dan

[Axel E]

When a German firm finished an action intended for sale to another firm for completion as a usable firearm had that action been submitted to any kind of government proof testing?

No, as barreled actions only can be proofed by firing a proof load. The gunmaker who barreled the action is responsible for submitting it to the proofhouse before releasing the gun to the public. If such an bought in action fails at proof, it is an internal dispute between two bonafide gunmakers only, no danger to any customer or user.

To ask the question in another manner did the German proof law of 1891 apply only to completed firearms? Dan

Yes. The gun, action, barrel + chamber and locks with safety have to be in the "in the white" state at least, ready for engraving and finishing, for final proof. The cartridge and load barrel is intended to use must be known for proofing. But rough bored barrels alone could be submitted to a first or preliminary proof for material defects to save the gunsmith from investing time and money into a faulty welded damascus one. Here the barrel was fitted with a provisional breechplug, loaded and fired muzzleloader style.

[mike ford]

Dan,
The preliminary proof, mentioned by Axel, is the one shown by "provisional proof marks", the final proof mentioned by him is shown by "definitive proof marks".

[mike ford]

Dan,
The preliminary proof, mentioned by Axel, is the one shown by "provisional proof marks", the final proof mentioned by him is shown by "definitive proof marks".

[Dan Patch]

My thanks to Axel and Mike for their responses. Some of this I ought perhaps to have thought through myself, but much of it was unexpected, even upon reflection. Dan