Mateba 6 Unica

[drzow]

I've been wanting a Mateba for years, and there is one on Gunbroker now. The question becomes: how can I get this into California? Since it is such an unusual mechanism, it's not like it can be converted to single action, so I'm wondering if there's any way the single shot exemption can be done? Seems like the cylinder would need to be pinned so it couldn't rotate, and I have no idea if the barrel could be replaced with a longer one. It's going to be some serious change to buy it in the first place, and I'm expecting even more for the smithing.

So the first question is: how can it be done?

Which would lead to the second question: who can do it?

Any pointers will be appreciated!

Terry

[unusedusername]

The single shot exemption is generally recommended only for pistols (not revolvers).

While this revolver does use a pistol-like action, it most likely can not be single-shot exempted unless you want to get into a super-gray area of law that CGF has recommended folks avoid.

[Munk]

Do some research... this might be qualified as a C&R gun now due to its value being primarily a result of its collectibility or unique mechanism.

[drzow]

Good point Munk! I did a little digging and, while it is not on the ATF C&R list right now, there is a procedure to petition for it to be added, and as you point out, it would seem to be a worthy candidate. If it is on the C&R list and I have a C&R (FFL03) license, then I can buy one in person out-of-state and physically bring it into the state myself. Definitely worth a road trip!

Thanks,
Terry

[morrcarr67]

If it was put on the C&R list it would be roster exempt and anyone could buy one and have it shipped to CA for transfer.

I remember another member saying they were going to petition BATF on this gun. Get yours in too. The more people that point out this gun to them the better the odds they will approve C&R status.

[drzow]

I would expect that the more evidence they have that it is C&R, the better.

ATF classification does not make it roster exempt in California -- it must be over 50 years old for that to apply. It does, however, allow someone with an FFL03 to buy it out of state in-person and physically bring it into the state and register it (it can not be shipped into the state, as that must go through an FFL01, who can not process it because it is off roster).