This came in this mornings' email from the Technology branch of ATF. I had previously inquired about the C&R status of this gun,
https://www.atf.gov/file/128116/download (ref: pg90 of the attached C&R list, excerpt below)
Section IV — NFA firearms classified as curios or relics, still subject to the
provisions of 26 U.S.C. Chapter 53, the National Firearms Act, and 18 U.S.C.
Chapter 44, the Gun Control Act of 1968.
U.S. M2 Browning, cal. .30, machineguns (AN-M2), as mfd. by various U.S. Government
contractors prior to and during World War II.
So, I have no doubt this gun would transfer as a C&R with no problems. That makes 2 divisions within the NFA branch saying that yes, it is a C&R gun.Unless it could be proven otherwise, it is a C&R firearm.
What would the costs to prove otherwise? Lets see, since the Technology and examiner divisions already say it is but you need to see original registration we'll have a legal inquiry. This will involve firearm experts as professional witnesses (paid of course), and a subpoena of ATF for their records. ATF will supply someone from the Technology Branch. IF you even get them to cooperate, opening their records is another matter. As we all know the records are likely a mess and they sure don't want to supply more evidence of that.
What are the costs so far? I would posit thousands upon thousands of dollars from both parties. Far exceeding the guns value. Only a fool would pursue this matter further.
Tubegunner