This will probably raise more questions than it answers, but from:
ATF Online- Firearms-FAQ-Collectors
Q: What qualifies as an antique firearm?
As defined in 18 U.S.C. 921(a)(16) the term "antique firearm" means-
A. any firearm (including any firearm with a matchlock,flintlock,
percussion cap, or similar type of ignition system) manufactured
in or before 1898; or
B. any replica of any firearm described in subparagraph (A) if such replica-
i. is not designed or redesigned for using rimfire or conventional
centerfire fixed ammunition, or
ii. uses rimfire or conventional centerfire fixed ammunition which is no
longer manufactured in the United States and which is not readily
available in the ordinary channels of commercial trade; or
C. any muzzle loading rifle, muzzle loading shotgun, or muzzle loading
pistol, which is designed to use black powder, or a black powder
substitute, and which cannot use fixed ammunition. For purposes
of this subparagraph, the term "antique firearm" shall not include any
weapon which incorporates a firearm frame or receiver, any firearm
which is converted into a muzzle loading weapon, or any muzzle
loading weapon, which can be readily converted to fire fixed
ammunition by replacing the barrel, bolt, breechblock, or any
combination thereof.
Dave
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