RULES, REGULATIONS

AND SCALES
APPLICABLE TO THE

PROOF OF SMALL ARMS

2006

THE WORSHIPFUL COMPANY THE GUARDIANS OF THE

OF GUNMAKERS OF LONDON BIRMINGHAM PROOF HOUSE

The London Proof House, The Birmingham Proof House,

48 Commercial Road, Banbury Street,
London E1 1LP Birmingham B5 5RH
 CONTENTS OF THE RULES OF PROOF 2006

Page No.
Introduction …………………………………………………………. 1,2
Schedule B - Rules, Regulations & Scales Applicable to the
Proof of Barrels of Small Arms.
Classification of barrels of small arms …………………………… 3
Definitions …………………………………………….….……… 3,4,5,6
Part I General ……………….……………………………….. 6,7
Part II Condition & Information prior to Proof ………………… 7,8,9
Part III View…………………………………..………………….. 9,10
Part IV The Proof Load……………………………….………….. 11,12,13
Part V Proof Marks used by the British Proof Authorities ……… 14 - 20
Part VI Approval for Cartridge Control
3.1 Testing of Commercial Ammunition. ………………….. 20 - 25
(This data is subject to change by C.I.P. For further data please refer to the
most recently issued C.I.P. CD disc, available from either Proof House)
3.2 Testing of Commercial Ammunition,
Explanatory remarks…………………………………… 25 - 28
3.3 Technical Annex for the testing of Commercial
Ammunition…………………………………….……… 29 - 36
3.4 Testing of Commercial Ammunition,
Dimensions to be checked ……………………………... 36 - 40
APPENDIX I
Smooth Bore Shotgun Chamber & Bore Dimensions …………..41- 42
APPENDIX II
Tabulation of British Proof Marks …………………………….. 43- 44
APPENDIX III
Other marks used by the British Proof Authorities …………….. 45
APPENDIX IV
Recognised Reciprocal C.I.P. Proof Marks
Austrian Proof Marks ……………………………………………46
Belgian Proof Marks …………………………………………….47- 49
Chilean Proof Marks……………………………………………..50
Czech Republic Proof Marks ……………………………………51
Finnish Proof Marks ……………………………………………. 52
French Proof Marks…………………………………………….. 53- 54
German Proof Marks……………………………………………. 55
Hungarian Proof Marks …………………………………………56
Italian Proof Marks …………………………………………….. 57
Russian Federation Proof Marks ……………………………….. 58
Slovakian Republic Proof Marks ………………………………. 59
Spanish Proof Marks …………………………………………… 60

Approval & Signatories to the Rules …………………………………. 61

 RULES, REGULATIONS AND SCALES,

made in the month of April 2006

BY THE

GUNMAKERS' COMPANY
AND THE

GUARDIANS OF THE
BIRMINGHAM PROOF HOUSE
Under Authority of the Gun Barrel Proof Acts, 1868, 1950(a) and 1978
(a) S.I.1996/1576: The Deregulation (Gun Barrel Proving) Order 1996

__

Effective from the1st August 2006

Whereas
(A) IN and by Section 117 of the Gun Barrel Proof Act, 1868
(hereinafter called " the Principal Act "), the Master, Wardens and Society of
the Mistery of the Gunmakers of the City of London (hereinafter separately
called " the Gunmakers' Company ") and the Guardians of the Birmingham
Proof House (hereinafter separately called " the Guardians ") in the Principal
Act and hereinafter referred to collectively as "the Two Companies" are
empowered, from time to time, should they deem the Proof or the Rules,
Regulations and Scales stated in Schedule B to the Principal Act annexed, or
any of them respectively, insufficient or inapplicable or unsuitable, on
application to and with the Approval of Her Majesty's Principal Secretary of
State for the War Department, to repeal or alter all or any of the Rules and
Regulations and all or any Part of the Scales respectively from time to time in
force under the Principal Act for the Proof of small arms or of any classes of
small arms, and may make, repeal, and alter any new Rules and Regulations,
and any new Scales in that behalf.

(B) THE Gun Barrel Proof Act 1978 amended the Principal Act in
certain material respects. Amongst other things Section 5 provides that in
Rules, Regulations and Scales of Proof made or altered under Section 117 of
the Principal Act measurements (whether length, area, volume, mass or
weight) may be expressed in imperial or in metric units, where internationally
recognised.

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 (C ) THE Permanent International Commission, as defined in Section
4 of the Principal Act, as amended, has made certain binding decisions with
the consent of the United Kingdom which are now included within the register
mentioned in Section 129, as amended, of the said act. The Two Companies
require to annex those decisions to Rules and Regulations as methods and
Scales of Proof for the purposes of implementation, where necessary, so as to
bring them up to date and more in accordance with present day domestic and
international methods, experience, practice and usage.

(D) THE Two Companies have in pursuance of the power contained in

Section 117 of the Principal Act and with the approval required by virtue of
the section as therein mentioned, from time to time repealed, amended and
altered certain of the Rules, Regulations and Scales under the Principal Act, as
stated in Schedule B thereto, and also made certain new Rules, Regulations
and Scales thereunder.

(E) THE function of Her Majesty’s Principal Secretary of State for the
War Department under the Principal Act (inter alia) relating to the repeal and
alteration of the Rules, Regulations and Scales applicable to the Proof of
Barrels of Small Arms are now transferred to one of Her Majesty’s Principal
Secretaries of State.

(F) THE Rules, Regulations and Scales now in force under the
Principal Act are the Rules, Regulations and Scales which were approved by
the Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department of Trade and Industry
on 1st November 1989.

(G) THE Rules, Regulations and Scales stated in Schedule B to the

Principal Act have been amended from time to time.

(H) SINCE the date of the approval of the last mentioned Rules,
Regulations and Scales, the Two Companies have again come to the
conclusion that some of the said Rules, Regulations and Scales now in force
are unsuitable.

NOW THEREFORE the Two Companies with the approval of The

Secretary of State for Trade and Industry, do hereby repeal the said Rules,
Regulations and Scales made in the month of November 1989 and in lieu
thereof do make the Rules, Regulations and Scales applicable to the Proof of
Barrels of Small Arms 2006 annexed hereto and coming into operation on 1st
August 2006.
(b) S.I. l947/985, I959/1768, l959/1828, Defence (Transfer of Functions) Act 1964 c. 15.

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 SCHEDULE B (made in accordance with Section 117
of the Principal Act)

RULES, REGULATIONS AND SCALES APPLICABLE

TO THE PROOF OF BARRELS OF SMALL ARMS

CLASSIFICATION OF BARRELS OF SMALL ARMS

First Class:- Smooth bore breech loading arms of 4 bore or smaller

discharging shot or bullet, the bore diameter and the dimensions of each
chamber of which are within the limits required by Rule 18 (See Appendix 1,
Tables 1A and 1B).

Second Class:- Rifled breech loading arms discharging shot or bullet (not
being of the Third Class), the dimensions of each chamber and barrel of which
conform to those specified in C.I.P. Tables for the corresponding cartridge.

Third Class:- Revolvers and pistols and automatic and self-loading arms
otherwise of the Second Class but the barrel lengths of which are less than 30
centimetres.

Fourth Class:- All arms not being of the First, Second or Third Class, any arm
which would otherwise be of the First, Second or Third Class, but which has
been declared by the Sender as being, and/or is without such declaration, in
the opinion of the Proof Master, for such a special purpose that it ought not to
be so classified, together with all arms declared for use with Black Powder.

DEFINITIONS

In these Rules, unless the context otherwise requires, the following

expressions have the meanings hereby assigned to them respectively, that is to
say:—
(1) Action means such parts of the arm that comprise the breech and
function the arm.

(2) Approved National Authority means in the UK the British Proof

Authority. Other terms with the same meaning are national
organisation, approved national body, national authority, national
agency.

(3) “Barrel includes every Barrel of every Small Arm, and every Breech
of every Small Arm, and every Part of every Small Arm which
would in the User of the Small Arm contain all or any part of the
Charge of the Small Arm, and every Part of every Small Arm in,
from, or through which Part in the User of the Small Arm all or any
Part of the Charge thereof would be exploded or discharged:
Barrel also includes every Barrel welded, forged or cast, finished or
unfinished, or in any progressive State of Manufacture, and any or
every Part of a Barrel.” For further interpretation, see Gun Barrel
Proof Act 1868, Section 4.
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(4) Barrel Attachment Requiring Proof means a device forming any part
of a barrel, removable or otherwise, from or through which any part
of the Load would be discharged.

(5) Barrel length means the distance from the breech face of the barrel to
the muzzle, or in the case of a revolver, including the length of the
cylinder. The sole purpose of this definition is for the Classification
of Barrels of Small Arms under Schedule B of these Rules and there
shall not be included in this length any removable barrel attachment.

(6) Branch Proof House means any Proof House established by either
one of the Two Companies, or jointly operated by The British Proof
Authority, under the Provisions of Section 89 of the Principal Act
and section 3 of the Gun Barrel Proof Act 1978.

(7) Breech means such parts of the arm which are highly stressed
components intended to prevent the escape of gases generated by
firing a load.

(8) British Proof Authority means the Two Companies acting jointly in
connection with the conduct of proof and C.I.P. requirements.

(9) C.I.P. means the Commission Internationale Permanante pour

L'Epreuve des Armes a Feu portatives (the Permanent International
Commission for the Proof of Small Arms) established under a
Convention done at Brussels on 1st July 1969.

(10) C.I.P. Approval for Cartridge Control means cartridges of all calibres
which have been tested by a C.I.P. member state proof house, or
proof house authorised establishment, to ensure conformity with
C.I.P. Tables, relating to dimensions, pressures, performance and
marking.

(11) C.I.P. Decisions means Decisions made by C.I.P. from time to time,
which become binding on member states in international law, and
form documents, comprising the register of proof marks for the
purposes of proof and section 129 of the Principal Act; copies of
these Decisions may be obtained from, or be inspected by
appointment at the London or Birmingham Proof Houses. Where
C.I.P. Decisions conflict with these Rules, the Rules shall take
precedence.

(12) C. I. P. Tables means Tables of Scales which are approved from time
to time by C.I.P. and produced as a result of C.I.P. Decisions
covering cartridge and chamber dimensions, bore diameters and
levels of pressure (T.D.C.C.). Copies of these Tables may be
obtained from or be inspected by appointment at the London or
Birmingham Proof Houses.

(13) Homologation means Type Approval.

4
(14) Hut means a Temporary Breech fitted to a barrel for the purpose of
proof.

(15) Hybrid Cartridge means any cartridge not included in C.I.P. Tables.

(16) Load means the charge of propellant, the projectile, the wadding and
any other material to be fired or discharged through a barrel.

(17) Mean Maximum Pressure means the average of a number of

pressures developed by firing the same loads and measured at a
position in a chamber or barrel.

(18) Muzzle means the end of the barrel of a Small Arm through which
any fired projectile(s) exits.

(19) Out of Proof means any arm bearing invalid proof marks and
therefore deemed to be unproved.

(20) Proof Load means the load required to develop proof pressure on
firing.

(21) Proof Master means the person or persons, who, for the time being,
carry out the duties of Proof Master of the Proof House to which a
barrel or arm has been submitted.

(22) Proof Pressure means the mean maximum pressure required by

Rules 26, 27 and 28 to prove a barrel or arm.

(23) Reproof means the further proof test of the barrel of a small arm after
its original or previous test.

(24) Sender means the person (not being a servant or agent) who submits
a barrel or arm for proof or reproof.

(25) Service Cartridge means any C.I.P. approved cartridge generally

available in the United Kingdom, or elsewhere, for use by the public
or by H.M. Forces in any small arm in which such cartridge is
intended to be used.

(26) Service Load means the load either in a Service Cartridge, or (where
not so loaded) intended for use in safety in a barrel or arm.

(27) Service Pressure means the mean pressure developed by firing

Service Loads.

(28) Sleeve(d) or Line(d) means the replacement of any highly stressed

part of the barrel and or chamber of any small arm, by which means
any existing proof mark has been transposed onto the new barrel(s);
see section 122 of the Principal Act for further interpretation.

(29) Special Definitive Proof means the Definitive Proof of a barrel or

arm intended for use with a Special Load.
5
 (30) Special Load means a load which on firing develops a mean pressure
greater than that developed on firing a Service Load.

(31) Type Approval means the process of examining, checking a product

type (here a type of weapon, tool or cartridge) and its subsequent
approval and marking for sale commercially. Other terms with the
same meaning are homologation, type-testing approval, type
classification.

(32) Unique Identifier means any unique serial number, mark, stamp,
design or some other means so as to permanently identify the barrel,
action or breech of any small arm.

(33) User means use.

(34) View means the inspection in accordance with Part III of these Rules
of a barrel or arm before and after firing a Proof Load in it.

Other words and expressions, to which meanings are assigned by

Section 4 of the Principal Act, have the same respective meanings.

Interpretation The headings and marginal notes to each Rule are inserted for
convenience only and shall not form part of these Rules.

RULES OF PROOF

PART I

GENERAL
Proof 1.— Each Proof shall consist of View and the firing of Proof Loads
in the barrel or in each barrel of the arm, or in the case of a revolver, one Proof
Load in each chamber of the arm.

Kinds
2.— There shall be two kinds of Proof, namely:⎯
of Proof (a) voluntary Provisional Proof
(b) compulsory Definitive Proof
Types
of Proof There shall be three types of Definitive Proof, namely:─
(i) Standard Definitive Proof (for standard pressure cartridges)
(ii) Superior Definitive Proof (for high performance cartridges)
(iii) Special Definitive Proof (for special hybrid loads)

but where, elsewhere in these Rules, Regulations and Scales, the expression
“Definitive Proof” shall appear, such expression shall (unless the context
otherwise requires) mean such Definitive Proof to the exclusion of Special
Definitive Proof.

6
 3.— All Arms and Barrels of any class may, but need not be, Proofs
required
Provisionally Proved. Provisional.

4.— In addition to any voluntary Provisional Proof all Arms and Proofs
required:
Barrels of whatever class shall be proved either by Definitive or by Special Definitive.
Definitive Proof.

5.— If any Barrel marked as Proved in accordance with the Gun Barrels
enlarged
Barrel Proof Acts and these Rules shall, by any Process of Manufacture or by in the bore.
any other Means whatsoever other than the User and Wear and Tear thereof,
be enlarged in the bore beyond tolerances specified in C.I.P. Tables, or if a
Barrel of the First Class, be enlarged by more than 0.2mm beyond the size
marked and thereby be reduced in Substance or Strength, thereby rendering
the Proof Marks invalid, such Barrel shall be deemed to be out of Proof and
Unproved. For the purpose of this Rule any alteration to, or replacement of
any highly stressed Action or Breech component part marked as Proved, shall
render the Arm out of Proof and Unproved.

6.—If a barrel of one sort is converted into a barrel of another sort, Barrels
converted
(for example a short barrel into a longer barrel or a barrel into a sound
moderated barrel or from a fixed choke to an interchangeable choke,) the
barrel shall be deemed out of proof from the time when the conversion is
begun. (See sections 115 and 130 of the Principal Act, as amended.)

7.— Unless required otherwise by the Sender an arm submitted for Re-proof.

re-proof shall, if in the opinion of the Proof Master it ought so to be proved, be

proved by such corresponding Definitive Proof or Special Definitive Proof, as
that by which it was proved on the last previous occasion of proof or re-proof.
If, either at the request of the Sender or option of the Proof Master, it is not so
re-proved, it shall be proved as if it had never previously been proved.

8.— Small Arms shall be adjudged in or out of Proof in relation to

the Rules under which they were proved or re-proved on the last occasion.

PART II

CONDITION AND INFORMATION PRIOR TO PROOF

9.— (1) The Sender shall deliver each arm and each barrel in a Condition
generally
proper state for proof.
(2) Each barrel shall be fine-bored and turned or ground.
(3) Each barrel shall be, if sent for proof, clean, free from rust,
pitting, dents and bulges, both internally and externally, or,
if sent for re-proof, in a reasonable condition, to the
satisfaction of the Proof Master.
(4) If an action be fitted to a barrel, it must be tight on the
breech face, and, the head space shall be to the satisfaction of the Proof
Master.
7
Information 10.— Each small arm shall be marked with a unique identifier in
generally
accordance with C.I.P. Decision XVII – 11 Article 4, or at the discretion of the
British Proof Authorities.

In addition to the requirements of Rule 9, each barrel and arm

shall be in the condition, and the Sender shall supply to the Proof Master in
writing the information, required by Rules 11 or 12.
Provisional
Proof: 11.— As to a barrel submitted for Provisional Proof: —
Condition. (a) In condition, it may, but need not, be chambered or rifled.
The touch hole drilled in any plug fitted to it must be of a
diameter not exceeding 1.6 millimetres.

(b) the information required shall be the nominal bore or

calibre and class of the arm for which it is intended in its
finished state.

12.— As to any barrel or arm submitted for Definitive Proof, or

Definitive Re-proof, or Special Definitive Proof, or Special Definitive Re-
proof:—
Condition (a) In condition, each barrel shall be struck up, smoothed, and
chambered, and, if intended for a rifled arm, rifled. Each
barrel shall be fitted to its action, which shall be finished or
in the finished state and intended for such arm, except in the
case of a finished barrel which may be fitted with a Hut. If
a revolver, it shall have its cylinder or chambers with the
revolving action and firing mechanism complete and in
working order. If an automatic or self-loading arm, it shall
be complete and in working order. Any barrel attachment
requiring proof shall be fitted, unless it is detachable and
has been previously proved and marked accordingly.
Information
(b) The information required shall be the following:—
(i). The Class of arm, and the nominal bore or calibre
of each barrel;
(ii). The type or kind of Proof required;
(iii). If of the First Class, the nominal length of the
chamber of each barrel;
(iv). If of the Second or Third Class, the nominal length
of the case of the Service Cartridge;
(v). If of the Fourth Class, the dimensions of the
Chamber (if so provided) and details of the purpose
for which the arm is intended;
(vi). In the case only of a Definitive Proof or Definitive
Re-proof, the Service Load or Service Pressure;
(vii). In the case of a Special Definitive Proof or Special
Definitive Re-proof or hybrid cartridge full details,
to the satisfaction of the Proof Master, of any
special mean pressure or Special Load for which it
is intended.
(viii). The serial number of the arm.
8
 Erroneous,
13.— If a Sender shall submit a barrel or arm in a condition which inadequate or no
information, or
fails to comply with the requirements of this part of these Rules, or shall arms not suitable
require it to be proved by a type of Proof which, in the opinion of the Proof for proof.
Master, is unsuitable, or in respect of such barrel or arm, shall supply
information which is, in the opinion of the Proof Master, inadequate or
erroneous, or shall fail to supply any information, the Proof Master may either
refuse to prove the barrel or arm, or may prove and mark it, subject to these
Rules, by a type of Proof by which and in a manner in which, in his opinion, it
ought to be proved and marked.

14.— Nothing in these Rules shall require the Proof Master to accept Exceptions.
for proof or re-proof any barrel or arm, which is in such a state or condition, at
the time of receipt by him, that, in his opinion, it cannot be viewed or cannot
be viewed in a manner whereby any defects (whether latent or patent) would
be disclosed or it cannot be loaded or fired with a Proof Load except by
involving him or his assistants in unusual danger.

PART III
VIEW
15.— View shall be an integral part of proof, and of re-proof. No Integral to
Proof
proof mark shall be made on a barrel or arm, which, in the opinion of the
Proof Master, shall have failed to comply with this part of the Rules.
Proof Master
Barrels or arms may be rejected by a Proof Master or his assistant or his
before proof as not being in fit condition for proof, or after proof having failed assistant.
proof. Arms may be deemed not in fit condition for proof on the grounds that
their condition is such that the Proof Master or his assistant could not view
them before and after proof so as to determine whether any material change
has resulted from the proof firing.

There shall be no arbitrary defacement or barring out of existing Proof

Marks on arms rejected before Proof.

16.— Before firing any Proof Load, each barrel of, or declared as Straightness
of arms of
intended for an arm of the First, Second or Third Class shall be inspected for 1st, 2nd,
straightness and condition. and 3rd Class

Gauge of 1st
17.— Before firing a load for Provisional Proof, a barrel of, or Class Arms for
declared as intended for, an arm of the First Class shall be gauged at a distance Provisional Proof.
of 23 centimetres from the breech face for its bore diameter.

18.— Before firing a load for any Definitive Proof or Re-proof, or Measurement of
bore and
Special Definitive Proof or Re-proof: — chamber
dimensions.
(a) As to an arm of the First Class:—

(i) Each chamber shall be gauged to ascertain that each

diameter and each length shall be within the limits set out in
Tables 1A and 1B of Appendix I for the dimensions of such
chamber.
9
 (ii) Each barrel shall be gauged at a distance of 23 centimetres
from its breech face for its bore diameter, which shall be
within the limits set out in Table 1A of Appendix I for the
diameter of such barrel. The bore gauges to be used shall be
capable of measuring the diameters set out in Table 1B of
Appendix I. Such bore diameter shall be deemed to be that
measured at a depth of 23 centimetres from its breech face.

(b) As to an arm of the Second or Third Class:─

Each length of the chamber measured from the breech face,

and each diameter of the chamber of each barrel, and the
bore of each barrel, or in the case of a revolver of each
chamber of its cylinder, shall be equal to the dimension set
out in C.I.P. Tables.

(c) As to an arm of the Fourth Class:─

Each barrel shall be viewed as the Two Companies may
(within the limits of these Rules) deem appropriate. In
particular, each smooth bore barrel shall be gauged at a
distance of 23 centimetres from its breech face for its bore
diameter, or if the barrel is less than 23 centimetres long, at
its muzzle.

Inspection
19. — After the firing of the Proof Loads, a barrel or arm shall he
for change inspected again to ascertain if any material change has taken place as a result
after firing
of such firings.

20. — Where metallic cartridge cases are employed in proof, these

shall be examined after firing, for evidence of distortion or incorrect
headspace.

Arms failing 21. — A barrel or arm, which fails to comply with the provisions of
view.
this part of the Rules, or which, on inspection, is found to have changed
materially by reason of the firing of Proof Loads shall be deemed to have
failed Proof.

Other methods 22. — Nothing herein shall preclude the Two Companies from
of view.
viewing, by means of any test, for the detection in any barrel or arm of any
flaw or of any material, which, in the opinion of the Proof Master, is, or
appears to be, of such a nature that the firing of a Service or Special Load in
such barrel or arm could be or become dangerous to the user; and upon the
detection of such flaw or such material, such barrel or arm shall fail Proof.
Where reference is made to bore gauges, micrometer adjustable gauges or
other approved measuring instruments may be used at the discretion of the
Two Companies.

10
 PART IV

THE PROOF LOAD

23. — The materials for use in each Proof Load shall be selected by Materials for
Proof Loads
the Proof Master:—
(a) As to the propellant from one of the following: —
(i). Any propellant for cartridges for small arms
included in the list of authorised explosives issued
by the Health and Safety Executive or other
Government appointed body from time to time
under the Explosives Acts.
(ii).Any propellant for cartridges not made in the United
Kingdom, but intended for use in the arm sent for
Proof.
(iii).Any other propellant, which the Two Companies
may consider suitable.
(b) As to projectiles any shot, bullet or other projectile
substance which may be considered suitable.
(c) As to wads, if used, any soft felt or other material which
may be considered suitable.

24. — Unless otherwise stated in these Rules or any Appendix hereto, Specifications

the temperature at which the propellants or cartridges or components of

cartridges shall be tested is 21 degrees centigrade, plus or minus 1 degree.

25. — The propellants or cartridges or components of cartridges Power of search

by minister.
stored at the Proof House for use in Proof shall at all times be open to
inspection, without notice, by an officer authorised for the purpose by the
Secretary of State, who may take samples for examination or trial.

26. — Where not specified in C.I.P. Tables of Pressure, Proof Calculation of

Proof Pressures.
Pressures shall be based on the mean maximum pressures developed by firing
not less than five Service Loads or Special Loads.

27. — Where not specified in Tables each Proof Pressure shall be Relation of
Proof Pressure
calculated so that it exceeds the highest mean Service Pressure or (in the case to Service
of Special Definitive Proof) the mean pressure developed by the Special Load Pressure.
of the arm by an amount which is equal to or greater than the amounts
specified below:—
(a) In the case of Provisional Proof of an arm, or barrel
intended for an arm, of the First Class, when pressures are
measured at a position 17mm or 25mm from the breech face,
the amount of 30 per cent; and at a position 162mm from the
breech face, the amount of 30 per cent.
(b) In the case of Provisional Proof of any other barrel or arm,
when pressures are measured at a position indicated in C.I.P.
Tables or where not so indicated as the Two Companies may
think suitable, such amount as the Two Companies may
agree.

11
 (c) In the case of Definitive Proof or Special Definitive Proof
of an arm of the First Class, when pressures are measured at
both 17mm or 25mm and 162mm from its breech face, the
amount of 30 per cent at the first point, or such increased
amount as the Two Companies may agree.
(d) In the case of Definitive Proof or Special Definitive Proof
of an arm of the Second or Third Class measured at such a
position as the Two Companies may consider suitable, the
amount of 30 per cent.
(e) In the case Definitive Proof or Special Definitive Proof of
an arm of the Fourth Class measured in such manner as the
Two Companies may consider suitable, the amount of 30 per
cent.

28. — (1) The minimum Proof Pressure for an arm of the First,
Second and Third Class shall be that set out in C.I.P. Tables of Pressure or
where not so set out, be such as the Two Companies shall from time to time
determine.

(2) The Two Companies may reproduce from time to time

amended Tables and Decisions as authorised by member states and issued by
C.I.P.

29. — In the case of an arm or barrel declared by the Sender either

for use with a Special Load, or for a mean pressure exceeding the highest
Service Pressure for that arm, such arm or barrel shall be Specially
Definitively Proved.

30. — If the cartridge for an arm or barrel sent for proof is a hybrid
cartridge or is not a Service Cartridge as defined in these Rules, or if the Proof
Master so requests, the Sender shall supply the Proof Master with such
reasonable number of cartridges intended for use in the arm as may be
required for the purpose of proof.

31. — Unless and until the Two Companies shall direct the Proof
Masters otherwise,

Proof Loads for (a) Each barrel for each arm of the First Class may be
arms of the first
class Provisionally Proved and shall be Definitively Proved with
such Powder and Shot as the Proof Masters shall deem
suitable to produce the pressures within the limits laid down
in Rule 27.
And the 2nd
and 3rd Class (b) Each barrel for each arm of the Second or Third Class shall
be Definitively Proved with a propellant and projectile to
produce the pressures within the limits laid down in Rule 27,
paragraph (d).

12
 32. (1) To ensure that Proof Pressures shall comply with the Power to vary
scales.
provisions of Rule 26, nothing herein shall preclude the Two Companies from
directing the Proof Masters, where necessary, to vary the Proof Loads within
the provisions of Rule 23.

(2) The Proof Masters shall have authority to select a Powder

capable of generating a Proof Pressure which conforms with the requirements
of Rule 27.

33.—(1) Where the Service Cartridge has a metallic case, the case of Conditions
under which
the cartridge used in Definitive Proof shall be lightly oiled, except in the proof shot
Definitive Proof of an arm of the Fourth Class either of such construction or conducted.

declared by the Sender and (with or without such declaration) accepted by the
Proof Master as being for such special purpose that oiling is unnecessary,
without merit or otherwise not required or cannot be effected.

(2) All propellants or cartridges or components of cartridges

shall be kept immediately prior to their use in proof under such conditions as
may appear to the Proof Master to be reasonable, provided that the
temperature of such storage shall not be less than 55 degrees Fahrenheit, or 13
degrees Centigrade.

34. —(1) Subject as hereinafter mentioned each pressure developed Measurement

of pressure
by a load or cartridge may be measured by its force, acting through a by force
transducer, piston on a crusher or other C.I.P. approved methods of exerted on a
crusher or
measurement. transducer.

(2) Any pressure mentioned in any C.I.P. Decision or Table Method

shall be measured by the method approved. .

(3) In default of any statement in any Table the pressure

developed on firing loads or cartridges shall be measured (in the absolute
discretion of the Two Companies) by any method described in and approved
by C.I.P. Decisions from time to time in force.

35. —Nothing herein shall preclude the Two Companies from Other
Methods.
measuring pressures by any method other than those hereinbefore described;
and upon the adoption of any such method by the Two Companies, they shall
publish the details thereof, together with scales or tables of the pressures
measured thereby.

13
 PART V

MARKS
36. — The marks denoting proof of any barrel or arm to be used by
the Two Companies are one or more (as required by Rules 36 to 50 inclusive)
of the following, namely:-

Mark No. 1, denoting Provisional Proof shall: —

As to the Gunmakers Company be the letters G P interlaced in

cypher, surmounted by a Lion Rampant, thus:—

As to the Guardians, be the letters B P interlaced in cypher,

surmounted by a Crown, thus: —

Definitive Proof as defined in the Principal Act, including both

Definitive and Special Definitive Proof, shall (in addition to any other mark)
be denoted: —

Mark No. 2, as to the Gunmakers Company by, being the letters GP

interlaced in cypher, surmounted by a Crown, thus: —

Mark No. 3, as to the Guardians, or Mark No. 4 mentioned below.

Mark No. 3, Denoting Definitive Proof for Nitro Powder, shall: —

As to the Gunmakers Company, be the letters N P surmounted by an

Arm Dexter in Armour Embowered, holding a scimitar, thus: —

As to the Guardians, be the letters B N P surmounted by a Crown,

thus:—

14
 Mark No. 4, denoting Definitive Proof, for Black Powder only shall
(in addition to any other Mark): —

As to the Gunmakers Company, Mark No. 2,

As to the Guardians, be the letters B P surmounted by a Crown, thus: —

BP
Mark No. 5, denoting Proof, for Black Powder only, shall (in
addition to any other Mark):—

As to the Two Companies, be the words thus:─

NOT NITRO or

thus BLACK POWDER

Mark No. 6, denoting Standard Proof pressure for arms of the First
Class:─

As to the Two Companies the capital letters STD surmounted by a

Crown, thus:─

STD

Mark No. 7, denoting Superior Proof pressure, for arms of the First
Class:─

As to the Two Companies the capital letters SUP surmounted by two

Crowns, thus:─

SUP

15
 Mark No. 8, denoting Special Definitive Proof, shall (in addition to
any other Mark): —

As to the Gunmakers Company be the letters S P surmounted by a

Crown, thus: —

As to the Guardians, the letters S P surmounted by a Crown, thus:—

Mark No. 9, denoting the Re-proof of a barrel or arm, shall: —

As to the Gunmakers Company, be the letter R surmounted by a

Crown thus:—

As to the Guardians, the letter R surmounted by a Crown thus:—

Mark No. 10, denoting the Re-proof of an arm of the First Class
where removable choke tubes have been fitted in the muzzle of any barrel.

As to the Gunmakers Company, be the letters C R surmounted by a

Crown, thus:—

As to the Guardians, the letters C R surmounted by a Crown, thus:—

16
 Mark No. 11, where, for any reason, such Proof Pressure is
unknown and cannot readily be measured, it shall denote the nature of the
load, in such manner as the Two Companies may consider suitable.

Mark No. 12, denoting the repair of a barrel, or any stress bearing
part of a barrel by sleeving or lining.

As to the Two Companies the word SLEEVED or LINED in

addition to any further marks necessary to evidence the reproof of the arm.

Mark No. 13, denoting the proof of arms of the first class for High
Performance Steel Shot, the Two Companies STEEL SHOT and a fleur-de-
lis, thus:─

Mark No. 14, denoting the Nominal Size of the bore of the barrel of an arm of
the First Class, or of a smooth bore arm of the Fourth Class shall be indicated
by the nominal number of balls of pure lead having a specific gravity of
11.352, to the imperial pound, as 12, 16 or 20 which may be surrounded by a
diamond, as for example thus:─

12 16 20

or the nominal bore diameter in decimal parts of an inch or millimetres, which

may be surrounded by a diamond as for example thus:─

410

Mark No. 15, denoting the internal diameter of a barrel of an arm of

the First Class or of a smooth bore arm of the Fourth Class, measured in
accordance with Rule 18, shall be indicated by the diameter in millimetres set
out in Table 1B of Appendix I, at a distance of 23 centimetres from its breech
face.

Mark No. 16, denoting the length of Chamber of a barrel of an arm

of the First Class or of a breech loading smooth bore arm of the Fourth Class,
measured in accordance with Rule 18, shall be indicated by millimetres,
as 65 mm, 70 mm, 76 mm, etc.

Mark No. 17, denoting the calibre or the Nominal Size of the bore of
a barrel of an arm of the Second or Third Class, or of a rifled arm of the
Fourth Class, as declared by the Sender, shall be indicated by millimetres and
decimal parts thereof, such as 8mm, 7mm or 7.62mm except where Imperial
designations are Internationally recognised when the calibre shall be indicated
by inches and/or decimal parts of an inch, such as .450 or .303.

17
 Mark No. 18, denoting the length of the Cartridge Case used in an
arm of the Second or Third Class or of a rifled breech loading arm of the
Fourth Class, measured in accordance with Rule 17, may be indicated at the
discretion of the Two Companies or by request.

Mark No. 19, denoting the year in which Proof or Re-proof was
completed applied to arms of the First, Second, Third and Fourth Class.

Mark No. 20, denoting the proof of arms for magnum loads may be
applied together with Mark No. 7.

Appendix II hereto sets out, in tabular form, the identification

numbers, the notation and short description of the respective Proof Marks to
be used respectively by the Two Companies, but in the case of any difference
or doubt as between this Rule and Appendix II or the interpretation thereof,
the terms of this Rule shall prevail.

37. — Marks denoting due proof shall be made by any method which
the Two Companies shall think fit.

38. — Mark No. 1 shall be made on each barrel which has passed
Provisional Proof.

39. — Mark No. 2, as to the Gunmakers Company and Mark No. 3,

as to the Guardians, shall be made on each action of each arm and on each
cylinder of each revolver, which has passed either Definitive Proof or Special
Definitive Proof for Nitro Powder.

Mark No. 2, as to the Gunmakers Company and Mark No. 4, as to

the Guardians, shall be made on each action of each arm and on each cylinder
of each revolver, which has passed either Definitive Proof or Special
Definitive Proof for Black Powder only.

40. — Mark No. 3, shall be made on each barrel of each arm, which
has passed Definitive Proof or Special Definitive Proof for Nitro Powder.

41. — Mark No. 6, shall be made on the barrel of arms for Standard
Proof. Mark No. 7, shall be made on the barrel of arms for Superior Proof.

42. — Mark No. 5, And in addition, as to the Gunmakers Company,

Mark No. 2, and as to the Guardians, Mark No. 4, shall be made on each
barrel of an arm, which has passed Definitive Proof or Special Definitive
Proof for Black Powder only.

43.─ Mark No. 8, shall be made on each barrel of each arm, which
has passed Special Definitive Proof.

44. — Mark No. 9, shall be made on each barrel of each arm, which
has passed re-proof.

18
 45. ─ Mark No. 10, shall be made on each barrel of each arm
converted to accept removable choke tubes.

46. ─ Mark No. 11, may be made on each barrel of each arm, which
has passed either Definitive Proof or Special Definitive Proof, whether such
proof be for Nitro Powder or for Black Powder only.

47. — In addition to the foregoing, there may be made on each barrel

of each arm, which has passed either Definitive Proof or Special Definitive
Proof, whether for Nitro Powder or for Black Powder only, the following:—
(i) On those of the Second or Third Class, Marks Nos. 15 and
16.
(ii) On those of the fourth Class, but only insofar as the Proof
Master shall in his absolute discretion deem the same
appropriate, either if of smooth bore Mark No. 14, and if
also chambered, Mark No. 15, or if rifled, Mark No. 16.

48. — Mark No. 16, may be made on each barrel of each arm of the
Second or Third Class, which has passed either Definitive Proof or Special
Definitive Proof, whether for Nitro Powders or for Black Powder only.

49. — Any barrel or arm submitted for re-proof which already bears
marks representing such re-proof shall, if it passes proof, be marked with
Mark No. 9 in addition to the marks it already bears. Should any barrel or arm
submitted for re-proof bear marks which do not fully represent the proof for
which it is then submitted, every such mark may, after the barrel or arm passes
proof, be deleted or barred out and the barrel or arm marked as if it had not
previously been proved, or such additional marks may be made in any position
as will evidence its further proof.

50. —(1) Mark No. 3, shall be made near the breech end of each
barrel, but may be repeated elsewhere on the barrel at the discretion of the
Proof Master in accordance with Rule 49.

(2) All other requisite marks shall be made on every arm of the
First, Second or Third Class, near the breech end of each barrel, and if
provisionally proved, near Mark No. 1, and in the case of arms of the Fourth
Class, in such positions on their barrels as the Two Companies shall think fit.
Where any arm (being of the Fourth Class) has no action fitted, or has neither
action nor cylinder, such marks shall he made near the breech of each of its
barrels.

(3) Marks shall be made on the flat of each barrel. If there be

no such flat, or if the Sender otherwise requests, they may be made on the
round of such barrel or elsewhere as may be convenient; but, in no
circumstances, if it is possible to make them where they are visible, shall such
marks be so made as to be concealed by any fitting which can be removed
only with the use of some instrument or tool.

19
 51. — If a barrel or arm already proved and marked as proved shall
fail any subsequent proof or re-proof, the Proof Master shall, before returning
the whole or any part of it to the Sender, either delete or bar out all existing
marks, (excepting any unique identifier or serial number) or ensure, to his
satisfaction, that the whole of such barrel or arm will, within a reasonable
time, be re-submitted for proof or re-proof’.

52. ─ Appendix III hereto sets out other marks used by the British
Proof Authority.

53. ─ Appendix IV hereto comprises the Register of C.I.P. Proof

Marks of member states with whom the United Kingdom has reciprocal
recognition and includes C.I.P. Decisions relating to minimum standards for
the conduct of proof.

PART VI

54. APPROVAL FOR CARTRIDGE CONTROL

TESTING OF AMMUNITION

Reference in the following text to a C.I.P. Decision is made by the use of

Roman numerals in brackets. The French text is authoritative.

3.1 TESTING OF COMMERCIAL AMMUNITION [XV-7]

The Permanent International Commission for the Proof of Small Arms (C.I.P.)
in the framework of procedure defined in Articles 1-3 and 1-4 of the
Convention of 1st July 1969, has laid down conditions for commercial
ammunition testing in order that safety standards may be guaranteed.
The UK is an adherent to the Convention and as such is a CIP Member State.

These provisions in Part VI represent the equivalent of the Scales of powder

for proof and service loads in Schedule B of the Gun Barrel Proof Act of 1868.

Article 1

Member States apply registered approval marks to commercial ammunition

and its packaging intended for portable small arms. Reciprocal acceptance of
national markings is taken for granted.
Approval marks may only be applied when the ammunition has been tested in
accordance with the procedures laid down in the following text and conforms
to the conditions imposed by the C.I.P. Samples of ammunition from the
batch to be tested will be taken as per the conditions laid down in the technical
appendices. Lot definition is also given in the form of an appendix. The
cartridge of a given calibre must be fired only in a weapon or device of the
same calibre designed for that cartridge [XX11-3].

20
Article 2

Testing may be carried out either by the national organisation, in the UK the
British Proof Authority, or by the manufacturer, under the supervision of the
national organisation. Responsibility will, in all cases, rest with the
manufacturer.
Ammunition testing includes:

a. Verification of distinctive markings on basic packages.

b. Verification of the existence of distinctive markings on each cartridge and,

for ammunition loaded with steel shot, the component parts of the cartridge
[XX11-2].

c. Verification of dimensions.

d. Inspection and checking of the mean pressure or, failing that, of

parameters judged to be equivalent in the case of special ammunition, and
for cartridges loaded with steel shot the mean velocity and the momentum.
[XX11-2].

e. Functional safety testing.

Article 3

3.1 All cartridges, including re-filled cartridges, must bear the following
marks: [XX1-5]

a. The identity of the cartridge manufacturer or the person who re-filled

them or the person guaranteeing them.

b. Identification must be provided by a manufacturer’s mark or a mark of

origin applied in indelible fashion either to the base or the cartridge
case.

c. In the case of re-filled cartridges, all previous marks must be

obliterated.

d. On the base of centerfire ammunition, the calibre in accordance with

the relevant standard or the commercial name of the ammunition.

If it is impossible for technical reasons to show the calibre on the base,

it may be marked in indelible fashion on the body of the cartridge case.

e. For shotgun ammunition loaded with lead or steel shot the size of the
shot and the length of the cartridge case; (If this length exceeds 65mm
for Cal. 20 and above or 63.5 mm for Cal. 24 and below. [XX11-2].

3.2 Proof and high performance ammunition must be capable of

identification:

21
a. Proof ammunition:
either by a serrated rim, or by the colour red on the base, or by the
whole cartridge case being red in colour, or by the words “Proof
Ammunition” coupled with the proof pressure for that calibre on the
body of the cartridge case in one of the languages used by C.I.P.
Member States.

b. High performance ammunition for smooth bore weapons:

either by a different colour on the base, or by marking the pressure on
the body of the cartridge case. (Max. 1050 bar or For a weapon proved
to 1370 bar in one of the languages used by CIP Member States [XXV-2]).

3.3 Ammunition intended to be fired from dust shot weapons must have
different dimensions in order that such rounds may not be inserted into
alarm, or blank firing, weapons. [XX111-2]

3.4 In the case of cartridges loaded with steel shot, the words “Steel Shot”
must be printed on the cartridge tube. Possibly the same inscription in
one of the languages of the C.I.P. Member States could be added.

3.5 In the case of cartridges loaded with steel shot, the shot load must be
furnished with a direct protection device of sufficient strength designed
to prevent any abrasion by the shot on the barrel walls. (The protection
must withstand firing from -20˚c to + 50˚c [XX11-2]).

3.6 With the exception of high performance cartridges, no new round of

ammunition which is not yet included in the C.I.P. Tables may be type
approved (homologated) either:

a. if it can be loaded into and fired in the chamber of a small arm

designed to fire ammunition of a calibre already homologated and
included in C.I.P. Tables and which has the same or similar
dimensions and a maximum permitted pressure lower than that of
the new ammunition
or;
b. if ammunition already homologated or included in C.I.P. Tables,
has the same or similar dimensions and a maximum permitted
pressure higher than that of the new round of ammunition, and can
be loaded into and fired a small arm designed for this new round of
ammunition with a maximum permitted pressure lower than that of
ammunition calibres already homologated. [XX1V-1].

Article 4

Commercial ammunition must be packed in suitable containers.

The basic package must be suitably closed. It must bear the following
markings:

a. Factory name or brand of the manufacturers or of the person for

whom the ammunition was produced and who accepts
responsibility for its compliance with current regulations.
22
 b. Trade name or standard title.

c. Batch identification number and the quantity of ammunition

contained in the basic package.

d. High performance ammunition, for small arms bearing superior

proof marks or its equivalent:

- for ammunition loaded with lead shot, an additional marking

showing clearly that they may only be fired in weapons which
have been subjected to superior proof; (U.K. magnum proof.)

- for ammunition loaded with steel shot, an additional marking

showing clearly that they may only be fired in weapons which
have been subjected to steel shot proof;

- if the steel shot diameter exceeds 4 mm, an additional marking

showing that the cartridges may only be fired in weapons which
have been subjected to steel shot proof and where the barrels
have a choke of less than 0.5mm; [XX111-12].

e. For “steel shot” cartridges the wording: Beware of ricochets, avoid

firing at rigid and hard surfaces [XX11-2]

f. For proof cartridges; “Proof Ammunition” [XXV-2]

g. A C.I.P. approval mark certifying that the ammunition has been

tested in accordance with C.I.P. specifications.

h. In the case of re-filled cartridges, information clearly stating

that they are re-filled cartridges [XX1-5]

i. For cartridges not capable of firing solid projectiles, if need

be, a description of the liquid and gaseous substances
discharged during firing [XX111-1.A]

Article 5

The dimensions of the cartridge must be checked using officially authorised

methods. The maximum values must be in conformity with the C.I.P. Tables.

Article 6

The measurement of mean pressure, of mean velocity, and momentum, and

other parameters must be carried out in accordance with C.I.P. Decisions and
Tables. The values obtained must correspond statistically to a mean value less
than or at the most equal to that permitted by the C.I.P. [XX11-2]

23
Article 7

Functional safety tests will be carried out as specified by the C.I.P.

Article 8

8.1 The right to apply approval marking is accorded, for given types of
ammunition, by the national authority of a member state to the manufacturer
or to the person whose company is mentioned on the ammunition and who
guarantees it. This right is equally accorded to petitioning importers who
import from a non-member country into a member country, for ammunition
tested by the approved national organisation of that member country.

The said authority will be granted, provided that:

a. the petitioner possesses and uses devices to measure dimensions and

pressures or, parameters considered to be relevant for the ammunition
in question. In addition, he must employ personnel capable of using
the equipment or demonstrate that he has entrusted the testing of
the product to a recognised authority and:

b. that tests have demonstrated that the ammunition produced complies

with the directives of the C.I.P., including the technical appendices
referred to in Article 11.

8.2 The authorisation will remain valid as long as inspection controls

carried out by a body approved by the national authority, show that the
conditions listed in sub-paragraphs. (a) and (b) of this article continue
to be observed. Approval will be withdrawn where this is not the case.

Article 9

Authorisation to apply test markings, or to withdraw the same, will be

communicated to the Permanent Bureau of the C.I.P., which will advise
Member States accordingly.

Article 10

If, in any particular country or member state, it is established that one or more
lots of ammunition bearing C.I.P. approval marking is offered for commercial
sale, but no longer conforms with the directives of the C.I.P., a counter test
will be imposed by the national authority ‘(in the UK the British Proof
Authority)’ which governs the manufacturer, or the person responsible. This
will be carried out on the testing equipment of the official organisation. If it is
found that the criticism is well founded and that no immediate remedy is
available, the British Proof Authority will decide whether or not the lot
complained of (or batches) should be withdrawn from the market, informing
national authorities of member states through the permanent office of the
decision taken. If only pressure is in question, or an equivalent parameter, and
these are too high, the manufacturer may be authorised to re-offer the
ammunition for sale, marked as for ammunition developing pressure above
normal.
24
In cases of urgency, where a member state finds that a certain batch of
ammunition, bearing the approval mark, is a source of danger for the user or
third parties, the competent national authority may insist that the lot be
withdrawn from the market within its own country, immediately informing the
Permanent Bureau of the C.I.P. and immediately adopting any safety measures
which are imposed.

Article 11

This decision will be supplemented by technical appendices in which C.I.P.

directives are given in detail.

Article 12

Formal procedures for the grant or withdrawal of approval within member

states are the responsibility of the competent national authority.

Article 13

British ammunition manufacturers should be aware that the British Proof

Authority may advise the United Kingdom Government to declare within a
period of six months after the present decision enters into force, that it reserves
the right of not applying it during the following three years. Member states
making use of this right undertake to develop the principle of ammunition
testing according to the standards imposed by the C.I.P. After a period of five
years following the entry into force of the present decision all member states
will be obliged to apply it.

3.2 TESTING OF COMMERCIAL AMMUNITION, EXPLANATORY

REMARKS [XV1-5]

1. Article 2

The approved national body may grant to an authorised body or

manufacturer the right to conduct checks on the ammunition
manufactured by an applicant who does not fulfil the conditions laid
down in Article 8.1.a. of 3.2. Responsibility for the ammunition
shall rest with the applicant.

Checking by the authorised body or manufacturer shall be conducted

under the supervision of the approved national body.

This right shall be granted only in respect of the manufacturing tests of

lots, whereas the approved national body shall reserve the right to
conduct type-testing and inspection control.

2. Article 3 -2. Definition of high performance cartridges

A high performance cartridge is a cartridge, even of an approved type,

25
 the maximum mean pressure of which is greater than the standard
pressure laid down by the C.I.P. It must be treated as a new
ammunition type and shall therefore:

a. undergo type-testing approval.

b. undergo manufacturing tests.
c. undergo inspection controls.
d. be listed in the C.I.P. tables.
e. be marked with the approval markings.
f. be individually identifiable (the basic pack shall bear the additional
marking provided for).

The conditions for the proof of guns intended for firing this
ammunition shall be specially laid down by the C.I.P.

The following shall be considered as high performance cartridges:

- ammunition intended to be fired in smooth bore small arms
which have been subjected to superior proof and/or steel shot
proof;

- all steel shot cartridges which exceed any one of the limits
applying to standard cartridges given in Paragraph 7.1 of the
Technical Annex; (3.3)

- proof ammunition [XX111-5]

3. Article 3

All ammunition must comply with the C.I.P. requirements, apart

from the ammunition listed below: [XX1-7]

a. proof cartridges loaded and used directly by the approved

national body and proof cartridges sold directly without
intermediary by a manufacturer to an approved national body in the
same country.

b. experimental cartridges of a new type which, in the research and

development stage, may be supplied for tests, in small quantities, to
various users not on the manufacturer’s staff. Such cartridges shall
not bear the C.I.P. mark of inspection and shall not be subjected to
C.I.P. provisions. They may however, if national legislation so
permits, circulate within the Member States of the C.I.P. without
checking prior to release until such time as they are mass-produced.

c. cartridges loaded or reloaded in small quantities for personal use

or, free of charge, for the use of friends. Such cartridges shall not
bear the C.I.P. mark of inspection and shall not be subject to C.I.P.
provisions. They may however, if national legislation so permits,
circulate within the Member States of the C.I.P. and be used there
freely.

Paragraph 4.2.2.of the Technical Annex does not apply to the

26
 cartridge listed above (3.3.)

4. Article 3.6

If, in the case of new calibres originating from third party countries,
the measurement procedure differs from that laid down by the C.I.P., a
safety surcharge factor of 1.07 must be applied to the mean pressure
obtained during the type approval process.

This factor applies to all cartridges designed for long rifled barrel
weapons, pistols, and revolvers, of both centre fire and rim fire type.
[XX1V-13]

5. Article 8.1a

The conditions laid down in Article 8.1.a of 3.2 shall also be regarded
as fulfilled if, in place of the applicant, an authorised body or
manufacturer is entrusted with the manufacturing test.

6. Article 13

The option of deferring implementation of the C.I.P. decision for 3

years affects mutual Recognition among Member States; a longer
period is not provided for. During this 3-year transition period a
Member State availing itself of this option of deferring implementation
of the C.I.P. decision shall be regarded as a non-member State, and the
provisions laid down in respect of cartridges from non-member
countries shall be applied to it.

Implementation of the C.I.P. decision in respect of ammunition

intended for the internal use of a Member State shall become
obligatory after 5 years in all Member States and without any prior
declaration.

7. During the transition period any Member State having implemented

the “Ammunition Approval” provisions may approve a type of
cartridge from a Member State in which the system is not yet in force.

Such cartridges shall bear the approval marking of the Member State
which has carried out the type approval.

When the transitional period has expired the type approval system
takes effect and the approval marking on the ammunition must from
then on be replaced by the marking of the manufacturer’s country, and
the approved national body of this Member State, will assume full
responsibility and shall carry out the inspection and manufacturing test
according to national rules.

8. From the end of the transitional period, in principle, it shall be for the
approved national body of each Member State to carry out the tests
provided for by the C.I.P. on all ammunition manufactured within its
territory.
27
 In exceptional cases this approved national body may ask the approved
national body of another Member State to carry out these checks.

9. Paragraph 1.2.1 of the Technical Annex

Since the lot to be taken for type testing comprises twice as many
items as the lot for manufacturing test it shall be understood that the
number of admissible defects is to be determined statistically. The
number of admissible defects shall be 3, 5, 8, 12 according to the size
of the lot indicated in paragraph 4.3.2 of the Technical Annex.

10. Paragraph 1.4.1-A-c of the Technical Annex

The inspection control is to be carried out on a single lot for each type.

11. In the case where a new calibre not featuring yet in the tables of C.I.P
is presented for type approval to an agreed National Organisation, this
latter may base the checking on specifications provided by the
manufacturer.

The agreed National Organisation is in this case required to notify the

Permanent Bureau, at the same time as type approval of the mean
measured maximum pressure, the maximum permissible pressure and
all the information provided by the manufacturer, duly verified and
checked.

The Permanent Bureau is required to send all the relevant information

to the delegates of the Member States.

Pending the coming into force of acceptance by the C.I.P. at Plenary

Session, this information may serve as a basis for the inspection and
testing of the arms and ammunitions of this calibre [XX-2]

Cartridges 20 gauge for shotguns - Declaration [Minutes XX]

C.I.P. requests that Delegations recommend to their

manufacturers the reservation and use of yellow colour cartridge
cases for shotgun cartridges in 20 gauge, in order to avoid mistakes
being made by shooters which could prove dangerous by the
accidental insertion into the chamber of a 12 gauge barrel.

High performance cartridges - Declaration [Minutes XX11]

Cartridges for rifled weapons must not develop a mean pressure greater
than the corresponding Pt.max given in the TDCC.

28
3.3 TECHNICAL ANNEX FOR THE TESTING OF COMMERCIAL
AMMUNITION [XV-7 Annex]

Summary
1. Generalities and definition of tests
2. Type definition
3. Lot definition
4. Sampling
5. Visual tests
6. Dimension tests
7a. Inspection and check of the mean pressure, or of parameters judged to
be equivalent, for a special ammunition.
7b. Steel shot, inspection and check of mean velocity and momentum
[XX11-2]
8. Functional safety tests
9. Imported ammunition.

1. Generalities and definition of tests

1.1 Suitability of installations

1.1.1 For the purpose of Article 8.1.a. of 3.2 at the request of

the petitioner, the British Proof Authority will be obliged to
carry out inspections of installations and measuring equipment
for each type of ammunition, with a view to establishing
whether or not they comply with the directives of the C.I.P. and
to grant them approval.

1.1.2. The inspection will include:

a. Checking whether the dimensions of pressure gauge
barrels conform with the directives of the C.I.P.
b. Checking the reliability of pressure testing equipment,
using reference cartridges or calibrated pressure gauge
barrels.
c. Checking calibres and instruments intended for
dimensional tests of ammunition.
d. Checking weapons to be submitted to functional safety
tests.

1.2 Type testing of ammunition

1.2.1 At the request of the petitioner and in accordance with

Article 8.1.b. of 3.2, the British Proof Authority will type
test mass produced ammunition in accordance with the
procedures adopted for production tests but on double
numbers of cartridges.

1.2.2 First imports from non-member states will be

subjected to the same tests.

1.2.3 If the inspection and check was passed as satisfactory,

29
 the applicant receives a Type Inspection Certificate
containing the following information:
- name and address of the applicant;
- commercial nomenclature or standard nomenclature of the
ammunition submitted for inspection and checking;
- date of issue of type classification inspection and approval;
- the inspection approval mark to be used. [XX111-1.a]

1.2.4. If the test is not satisfactory, the petitioner will be

permitted to submit new batches of ammunition for further
examination.

1.3 Manufacturing test

1.3.1 If type testing has been satisfactory, manufacturing

tests will be carried out by the producer or the authorised
importer or the approved National Agency, on each batch of
ammunition, with a view to checking that the C.I.P.
directives are constantly applied during current production.

1.3.2. Manufacturing test results will be registered and

numbered by the examiner, as per procedures laid down by
the approved National Agency. Those records will be
maintained at all times and held at the disposal of the
approved National Agency.

1.4 Inspection control

1.4.1. The approved National Agency will carry out

inspection controls as laid down in Article 8.2., as follows.

A: For a petitioner, authorised to conduct manufacturing

tests, at least once every three years:
a. Installations checks according to the procedure laid down
in paragraph 1.1.2;
b. Checking manufacturing tests;
c. A manufacturing test in accordance with procedure laid
down in paragraph 1.3;

B: For importers from third countries not authorised to carry

out manufacturing tests, at least once per year:
a. Checking the existence of the certificate referred to in
paragraph 9.;
b. Checking whether manufacturing tests are carried out by
demanding the submission of one or more certificates,
according to the size of imports;
c. A test of each type of ammunition imported during the
current year in accordance with paragraph 1.3 on such
occasions, the manufacturing test certificate for the lot
selected for inspection must be supplied by the importer.

30
 1.4.2 If, during an inspection, it is found that C.I.P. directives have not
been complied with, the approved National Agency will report the
defect and the period in which this may be remedied. If no remedy is
submitted, the procedure of Article 8.2 will be applied.

2. Type definition

Types will be defined by “Designation of Calibre” in dimensions tables

for cartridges approved by the C.I.P., or by the commercial
nomenclature.

3. Lot definition

3.1 The lot will be made up of a batch of ammunition of the same

type, manufactured in series production, and loaded from the
same loading machine. Each lot is changed whenever any
constituent part of the cartridge is changed [XX11-5]

3.2 For ammunition originating from a non-member country, a lot

of ammunition will be so considered, when it consists of
cartridges filled by the same cartridge manufacturer, delivered
together by the same importer from a member state and which
present the same homogeneous features as those indicated in
paragraph 3.1 above.

4. Sampling

4.1 Sampling will be carried out at random and the most

representative specimen will be tested at the examiner’s
discretion.

4.2 Type Control

4.2.1 For type control purposes, the lot will consist of at least
3,000 cartridges.
4.2.2 Where a lot consists of fewer cartridges than indicated in
paragraph 4.2.1. a decision for each particular case will
be taken by the approved National Agency, taking into
account the principles and directives of the C.I.P.
4.2.3. For type testing, the lot will be selected from ammunition
developing the highest maximum pressure.

4.3 Manufacturing tests

4.3.1. The a mo u n t o f a m m u n i t i o n t o b e su b mi t t e d t o
manufacturing tests as a lot must not exceed:
- 500,000 cartridges for central percussion ammunition.
- 1,500,000 cartridges for rim fire ammunition.

31
4.3.2. Sampling
__________________________________________________________

Lot up to 35,001 150,001 500,001

35,000 to to to
150,000 500,000 1,500,000

____________________________________________________________
a. dimensional and visual test 125 200 315 500
b1 pressure test 20 30 30 50
b2 test of velocity and momentum
(steel shot cartridges) 20 30 30 50 [XX11-2
c. functioning test 20 32 32 50

____________________________________________________________

In the case of riveting cartridges and cartridges for humane killers, samples for
the pressure tests shall be taken from the most powerful ammunition and shall
consist of 12 cartridges for each additional volume selected. [XX1-6.1]

4.3.3. The number of items prescribed for the manufacturing checks may be
altered if the manufacturer has a quality control system.

A checking plan must then be submitted in advance to the approved national

body. The national body shall examine the checking plan and may authorise
checking in the course of manufacture, ensuring that the C.I.P.’s safety
provisions are fully respected [XV111-10-2]

5. Visual test

5.1 The following checks of sample ammunition are made:

5.1.1. The presence of distinctive markings and the contents

provided for in Article 3. [XX11-2]
The number of admissible defects for the marks described in
3.1.a, 3.1.b, 3.1.c, 3.1.e: 2,3,5,8, according to the size of the lot
mentioned in paragraph 4.3.2 above.
Number of defects for the marks provided for in paragraphs
3.1.d, 3.2, 3.3 and 3.4: NIL [XX11-2]

5.1.2. The absence of defects of the cartridge case before

firing: Number of defects admissible for longitudinal fissures
of lengths inferior or equal to 3 mm at the mouth: 2,3,5,8
according to the size of the lot as mentioned in paragraph 4.3.2
above. Number of under mentioned defects admissible: NIL
- wrong calibre;
- longitudinal fissures at the mouth longer than 3mm;
- all other longitudinal and/or transverse fissures;
- rupture of the base.

32
 5.2 The basic package of ammunition sampled is to be checked for
the following:

5.2.1. Admissible number of marking defects referred to in

paragraphs 4-a, 4-c, 4-f, 4-g: 2,3,5,8, according to lot size
mentioned in paragraph 4.3.2 above.
Number of defects for markings referred to in paragraphs 4-b,
4-d, 4-e, 4-h: NIL [XX111-3]

5.2.2 The presence of cartridges of different types in the same

basic package. Number of defects: NIL.

5.3 The lot will be sent back for checking and presentation at a
later date if the number of defects mentioned in paragraphs 5.1
and 5.2 above is exceeded.

6. Dimensions test

6.1. The dimensions test must make it possible to check the

important dimensions from the safety point of view, plus those
which define the type. Those dimensions indicated in Cartridge
Dimensions Tables approved by the C.I.P. are referred to in
Addendum A to this annex.

In the case of cartridges for blank or alarm weapons, the total

length after firing (L3) is also measured for those cartridges
which were used to determine the gas pressure or energy.
[XX111-1.A]

6.2 All ammunition sampled must conform to fixed dimension

limits considered important from the point of view of safety.

6.3 Fixed dimension limits for type approval are to be checked by

means of a form gauge, taking into account minimum
dimensions of chambers as referred to in Addendum A. All
ammunition sampled must fit easily into this general form
gauge.

6.4 The primer is checked to verify that it does not protrude above
the level of the base of the ammunition.

6.5 If a defect is encountered, the lot will be returned for checking

and subsequent re-presentation.

6.6. In the case of cartridges loaded with steel shot, the shot must
have a Vickers hardness value: - on the surface: VH1 < 110 -
at the core: VH1 < 100

6.7. The steel shot pellets contained in standard cartridges must

have a diameter for 12 bore cartridges less than or equal to
3.25mm. [XXV1-7]

33
7. Maximum pressure test

7.1 Sampling will be carried out as laid down in para 4 above.

Pressure barrels to be used, the method to be applied for
pressure measurement, and the evaluation of results, are
covered in C.I.P. decisions.

Pressure barrels, as specified by the CIP, are to be used to

check the mean velocity and the momentum of steel shot
cartridges. The mean velocity and the momentum must be
measured at a distance of 2.5 m from the muzzle and the values
to be met are the following:

- standard 12 bore cartridges:

mean velocity: less than or equal to 400 m/s;
momentum : less than or equal to 12 Ns.
- high performance 12/70 cartridges:
mean velocity: less than or equal to 430 m/s;
momentum : less than or equal to 13.5 Ns.
- high performance 12/73 and longer cartridges:
mean velocity: less than or equal to 430 m/s;
momentum : less than or equal to 15 Ns. [XXV1-7]

7.2. Normal test conditions are as follows:

- temperature: 21°C ± 1°C
- relative humidity: 60% ± 5%
Type testing will be carried out on ammunition so conditioned
over a 24 hour period. Manufacturing tests may be carried out
on ammunition in an environmental state. In the event of a
dispute, results obtained from ammunition acclimatised in the
fore-going conditions will be made.

7.3. Pressure values must not exceed those laid down by the C.I.P.
In case of doubt and if the maximum calculated value does not
exceed 1.25 P-max, a check test will be permitted on a double
number of cartridges. The mean results of the tests must
comply with the directives of the C.I.P. Where this is not the
case, ammunition from this lot remains unapproved, unless
designated as high performance ammunition as per Article 3.2.

In the case of riveting cartridges and cartridges for humane

killers, if one requirement is not met, an additional test on 12
cartridges shall be carried out [XX1-6]

7.4. If the C.I.P. has stipulated the measurement of kinetic energy,

this must, after statistical evaluation, comply with the relevant
directives. To effect this measurement, an illuminated velocity
screen installation will be used, the electronic recording
apparatus of which will be precise to at least 10 micro-seconds.
The unit of measurement will be a minimum of one metre. The
first optic barrier will be placed at 0.50 m from the muzzle. If
these requirements given above are not met then the results
34
 must be adjusted accordingly.

8. Functional safety tests

8.1. Checks of operating safety shall be carried out during type-

testing and inspection using a standard reference barrel or a
firearm the chamber dimensions of which are in conformity
with the dimensions given in the tables of dimensions approved
by the C.I.P. In particular, for checking the operating safety of
cartridges for smoothbore arms a firearm with the maximum
chamber and headspace shall be used.

8.2. In manufacturing tests; checks of operating safety should be

carried out using a firearm whose dimensions are within the
C.I.P.’s permitted limits and which has been accepted by the
approved National Body.

The dimensional characteristics of this firearm shall be

recorded. In particular, for checking the operating safety of
cartridges for smoothbore arms a firearm with the maximum
chamber and headspace shall be used. [XIX-11-A.3]

8.3. In the case of blank cartridges for alarm weapons, during the
type classification inspection, the checking of inspection
procedures and factory inspection, the specific observation and
detection of the defects covered by Paragraph 8.5.f. must be
done by means of a pressure measurement barrel. [XX111-1.a]

8.4. Sampling will take place as laid down in the foregoing

paragraph 4.

8.5 Defects to be treated as critical are the following:

a. Escape of gases towards the rear, beyond the breech

b. Seizing of the projectile, or parts thereof, within the barrel
c. Tearing of the cartridge case, which remains completely or
partially within the barrel .
d. Total separation of the cartridge case
e. Splitting of the cartridge case base.
f. In addition, in the case of blank cartridges for alarm
weapons, any discharge of fragments or particles of
propellant, wad, etc. from the cartridge case, which have
penetrated a sheet of A2 size paper of quality 100-115 g/m²
and thickness of 0.12 ± 0.02 mm mounted on a support at a
distance of 1.5 m from the muzzle [XX111-1.A]

8.6. Where there is a defect, the lot will be sent back for revision
and a further batch to be re-submitted at a later date.

9. Ammunition imported from third countries.

35
 In the case of ammunition imported from non-member countries, for
which no manufacturing controls are possible, the manufacturer will be
required to supply an attestation certifying that manufacturing controls
equivalent to those imposed by the C.I.P. have been carried out.

The approved National Agency of a member country, or the importer

will have the right to obtain from the manufacturer a report on
manufacturing tests for the batch imported.

In addition, inspection controls carried out by the approved National

Agency of the ammunition importing country, from third country
origins, will take place at least once per year.

3.4 TESTING OF COMMERCIAL AMMUNITION, DIMENSIONS

TO BE CHECKED (ADDENDUM A TO PARA 6.1. OF
DECISION XV7, ANNEX) (XV1-4, XX1V-2)

I. Dimensions to test from the point of view of safety

1. Cartridges designed for rifled weapons, including cartridges for pistols

and revolvers, including rimfire cartridges.

a. L3: total length of the case. (maximum cartridge)

H2: diameter at the case mouth. (maximum cartridge)
G1: diameter of the projectile at the case mouth. (maximum
cartridge)

These dimensions must be lower than or at most equal to those laid

down by the C.I.P. and given in the “Tables of Cartridge and
Chamber Dimensions” and must be tested
separately.

b. Distance L3 + G (L3: total length of case, G: distance between H²

and F of the chamber) taking account of the following diameters of the
calibre of the barrel:

F: land diameter of the bore. (minimum chamber)

G1: diameter at rear of commencement of rifling. (minimum
chamber)
H2: diameter at front of chamber (at distance L3).(minimum
chamber) and the following lengths:
S: distance from H2 to the end of the cylinder at diameter G1.
(minimum chamber)
G: distance from H2 to F. (minimum chamber)

Distance S+G must be smaller than or at most equal to L3 + G as

defined above.

c. Cartridge dimensions which affect headspace:

36
 1. Rimless cartridges with tapered case.
L1: distance between the rear face of the base and diameter at
P2, tolerance: -0.20 mm;
L2: distance between the rear face of the base and diameter of
the neck at H1, tolerance: -0.20 mm.
P2: diameter at L1, tolerance: -0.20 mm.

2. Rimless cartridges with no taper:

L3: total cartridge length, tolerance: - 0.25 mm.

3. Rimmed cartridges:
R: rim thickness, tolerance - 0.25 mm.

4. Magnum (belted) cartridges:

E: height of belted base, tolerance: -0.20 mm.

5. Rimless pistol cartridges with no taper:

L3: total case length, tolerance: -0.25 mm.

6. Revolver cartridges:
R: rim thickness, tolerance: - 0.25 mm.

7. Rim fire cartridges:

R: rim thickness, tolerance: - 0.18 mm.

These dimensions and tolerances, measured by a suitable method,

must comply with those laid down by the C.I.P. and as published in
the “Tables of Maximum Cartridge and Minimum Chamber
Dimensions” (TDCC) and must be inspected and checked
individually [XXVI-10]

2. Shotgun cartridges for smoothbore firearms.

d: diameter of the case head

t: thickness of the case rim

These dimensions and tolerances, measured by a suitable method,

must correspond to those prescribed by the C.I.P. as listed in the
“Tables of Cartridge and Chamber Dimensions”.

3. Cartridges for industrial tools.

L3: total length of the case (maximum cartridge)

H2: diameter at the case mouth (maximum cartridge)

These dimensions must be lower than or at most equal to those laid

down by the C.I.P. as listed in the “Tables of Cartridge and Chamber
Dimensions” and must be tested individually.

4. Cartridges for blank firing alarm weapons

37
 L3: total length of the cartridge (maximum cartridge)
L6: total length of the cartridge before firing
H2: diameter of the case at the end of the cylindrical section.

These dimensions must be lower than or at most equal to those laid

down by the C.I.P. as listed in the “Tables of Cartridge and Chamber
Dimensions” and must be tested individually.

5. Dust shot cartridges

L3: total length of the cartridge (maximum cartridge)

P1: diameter under the rim or in front of the groove
H2: diameter of the case at the end of the cylindrical section
R: thickness of the rim.

These dimensions and tolerances, measured by a suitable method, must

correspond to those prescribed by the C.I.P. as listed in the “Tables of
Cartridge and Chamber Dimensions”.

II.. Dimensions to be checked for type control

1. Cartridges designed for rifled arms, including cartridges for pistols and
revolvers including rimfire.

L1: length between rear face of the base and diameter P2

L2: length between rear face of the base and diameter H1 of
shoulder
L3: total length of the case
R: thickness of case rim
R1:diameter of case rim
E: thickness of the case head
P1: diameter under the rim or in front of the groove or the distance
E from the rear face of the base
P2: diameter of the case at distance L1
H1: diameter at base of neck at distance L2
H2: diameter at the case mouth at distance L3
G1: diameter of the projectile at the case mouth.

Distance E is used in determining the position of diameter P1; belted

cartridges must comply precisely with this dimension.

The dimensions of the cartridge, taken together, must not exceed the
corresponding chamber dimensions laid down by the C.I.P. as listed in
the “Tables of Cartridge and Chamber Dimensions”.

2. Shotgun cartridges for smoothbore firearms

The dimensions indicated in 1.2. and in addition:

l: total length of the cartridge case prior to firing.

38
 Considering the tolerances, the measured dimensions must be within
the limits prescribed by the C.I.P. as listed in the “Tables of Cartridge
and Chamber Dimensions”.

In addition, the cartridge must enter freely into the minimum chamber
corresponding to the dimensions prescribed by the C.I.P. as listed in
the “Tables of Cartridge and Chamber Dimensions”.

3. Cartridges for industrial tools.

L3: total length of the cartridge after firing

L6: total length of the cartridge before firing
R: thickness of case rim
R1:diameter of case rim
P1: diameter of the case under the rim or in front of the groove
H2: diameter of the case at the at the end of the cylindrical section .

The dimensions of the cartridge, taken together, must not exceed the
corresponding chamber dimensions laid down by the C.I.P. as listed in
the “Tables of Cartridge and Chamber Dimensions”.

4. Cartridges for blank firing alarm weapons

L3: total length of the cartridge after firing

L6: total length of the cartridge before firing
R: thickness of case rim
R1: diameter of case rim
E: thickness of case head
P1: diameter under the rim
H2:diameter of the case at the end of the cylindrical section.

Distance E is used in determining the position of diameter P1.

The dimensions of the cartridge, taken together, must not exceed the
corresponding chamber dimensions laid down by the C.I.P. as listed in
the “Tables of Cartridge and Chamber Dimensions”.

5. Dust shot cartridges.

L3: total length of the case after firing

L6: total length of the case before firing
R: thickness of case rim
R1: diameter of case rim
E: thickness of case head
P1: diameter under the rim or in front of the groove
H2: diameter of the case at the end of the cylindrical section.

Distance E is used in determining the position of diameter P1.

Considering the tolerances, the dimensions of the cartridge, taken

together, must not exceed the corresponding chamber dimensions laid
39
 down by the C.I.P. as listed in the “Tables of Cartridge and Chamber
Dimensions”.

55. C.I.P. CARTRIDGE APPROVAL MARKS

─ United Kingdom C.I.P. Cartridge Approval marks contained in the

Register denoting acceptance shall be:─

As to the Gunmakers Company, the capital letter “L” surmounted by

a rose, surmounted by a crown, contained in an oval, thus:─

As to the Guardians, the capital letter “B” surmounted by a rose,

surmounted by a crown, contained in an oval, thus:─

40
 APPENDIX I

SMOOTH BORE SHOTGUNS

CHAMBER DIMENSIONS (IN MM)

(See Rule 18)

TABLE 1A
CHAMBER MOUTH OF BORE OF
GAUGE LENGTH CHAMBER RIM CHAMBER BARREL
L.min Tol D.min Tol G.min Tol T.min Tol H.min Tol B.min Tol

4 101.6 27.70 30.50 3.30 26.30 23.35 +0.8

8 82.5 23.60 26.30 2.90 23.22 20.40 +0.8
10 73.0 21.75 23.75 1.90 21.40 19.3 +0.7
10 66.7 21.75 23.75 1.90 21.40 19.3 +0.7
12 76.2 20.65 22.55 1.85 20.30 18.2 +0.7
12 69.9 20.65 22.55 1.85 20.30 18.2 +0.7
12 65.1 20.65 22.55 1.85 20.30 18.2 +0.7
12 50.8 20.65 22.55 1.85 20.30 18.2 +0.7
14 65.1 19.70 21.55 1.75 19.35 17.2 +0.5
16 76.2 18.95 20.75 1.65 18.60 16.8 +0.5
16 69.9 18.95 20.75 1.65 18.60 16.8 +0.5
16 65.1 18.95 20.75 1.65 18.60 16.8 +0.5
20 76.2 17.75 19.50 1.55 17.40 15.6 +0.5
20 69.9 +2.0 17.75 +0.1 19.50 +0.1 1.55 +0.1 17.40 +0.1 15.6 +0.5
20 65.1 17.75 19.50 1.55 17.40 15.6 +0.5
24 63.6 16.80 18.55 1.55 16.50 14.7 +0.5
28 76.2 15.90 17.50 1.55 15.60 13.8 +0.5
28 69.9 15.90 17.50 1.55 15.60 13.8 +0.5
28 63.6 15.90 17.50 1.55 15.60 13.8 +0.5
32 63.6 14.60 16.20 1.55 14.30 12.7 +0.5
410 76.2 12.05 13.07 1.55 11.80 10.2 +0.5
410 63.6 12.05 13.70 1.55 11.80 10.2 +0.5
410 50.8 12.05 13.70 1.55 11.80 10.2 +0.5
9mm 44.6 9.90 11.50 1.45 9.70 8.5 +0.5

41
 APPENDIX I

RULES OF PROOF

SHOTGUN BORE DIMENSIONS

(See Rule 18)
TABLE 1B

Gauge Millimetres Gauge Millimetres

4 24.0 20 16.2
23.9 16.1
23.8 16.0
23.7 15.9
23.6 15.8
23.5 15.7
23.4 15.6
23.3

24 15.2
8 21.1 15.1
21.0 15.0
20.9 14.9
20.8 14.8
20.7 14.7
20.6
20.5
20.4 28 14.3
14.2
14.1
10 20.0 14.0
19.9 13.9
19.8 13.8
19.7
19.6
19.5 32 13.2
19.4 13.1
19.3 13.0
12.9
12.8
12 18.9 12.7
18.8
18.7
18.6 .410 10.7
18.5 10.6
18.4 10.5
18.3 10.4
18.2 10.3
10.2

14 17.7
17.6 9mm 9.0
17.5 8.9
17.4 8.8
17.3 8.7
17.2 8.6
8.5
16 17.3
17.2
17.1
17.0
16.9
16.8

42
 APPENDIX II
TABULATION OF PROOF MARKS
(See Rule 36)

Mark Mark to indicate Mark used by either Company, or notes on Marks used by both Mark used or
No. Companies. Examples of Marks
Gunmakers Guardians used by
Company both Companies

1 Provisional Proof

Either Mark
2 Definitive Proof No.3 or No.4

3 Definitive Proof for

Nitro
And Mark No.2

4 Definitive Proof for Mark No.2

Black Powder only
BP
5 For Black Powder only NOT NITRO BLACK POWDER

Minimum Mean Pressure 960 bar (Transducer)

6 Standard Proof Minimum Mean Pressure 850 bar (Crusher)

STD

STD

Minimum Mean Pressure 1370 bar (Transducer)

Minimum Mean Pressure 1200 bar (Crusher)
7 Superior Proof
SUP

SUP

8 Special Definitive Proof

9 Re-proof

10 Choke Re-proof

11 Proof Load Propellant and its weight in grams Propellant and its weight in grams 6.5 grms Black
and Weight of projectile in grams and Weight of projectile in grams Powder 36 grms shot

43
 APPENDIX II

TABULATION OF PROOF MARKS

(See Rule 36)
Mark used or
Mark Mark to indicate Mark used, or notes on the Marks used by both Companies. Examples of Marks
No. used by
both Companies

Gunmakers Guardians
Company

12 Sleeving or Lining SLEEVED SLEEVED

LINED LINED

Minimum Mean Proof Pressure, as for High Performance

Proof, with Steel Shot of a prescribed Diameter and
13 High Performance Steel Shot Hardness achieving a minimum mean Momentum. STEEL SHOT

STEEL SHOT

The nominal number of balls of pure lead having a

Nominal Bore specific gravity of 11.352, to the imperial pound or the
14
(Smooth Bore) nominal diameter in decimal parts of an inch or
millimeters which may be surrounded by a diamond

Bore diameter at Diameter in mm. of largest bore gauge which will 18.5mm.
15 23cms from breech measure at 23cms. from breech.
(Smooth Bore)
Chamber Length
16 mm. 65mm.
(Smooth Bore)

Nominal Bore
17 Decimal parts of an inch or mm. .303′′ 7mm.
(Rifled Barrel)
Case Length
18 mm. 52.5mm.
(Rifled Barrel)
LP
19 Year of Proof 04

20 Magnum Proof MAGNUM MAGNUM

44
 APPENDIX III

TABULATION OF OTHER MARKS

Mark
No Mark to indicate Marks used by both Companies.

Gunmakers Guardians
Company
By authority of
21 Deactivation Mark The Secretary of
State for the
Home Office
By authority of
22 Magazine Restriction Mark The Secretary of
State for the
Home Office
Allowed by the
23 CIP Homologation CIP for certain
LH BH blank cartridge
operated tools

Reject
24 Reject means
invalid

45
APPENDIX IV

AUSTRIA

46
BELGIUM

47
BELGIUM Cont.

48
BELGIUM Cont.

49
CHILE

50
CZECH REPUBLIC

51
FINLAND

52
FRANCE

53
FRANCE Cont.

54
GERMANY

55
HUNGARY

56
ITALY

57
RUSSIAN FEDERATION

58
SLOVAKIAN REPUBLIC

59
SPAIN

60
 Made and done under the Common Seal of the Gunmakers’
Company of the City of London.

The Common Seal of the Gun-

Makers’ Company of the City
of London was hereunto affixed
in the presence of

C. D. Price
Master

R. J. Wilkin
Chairman
Proof House Committee

Made and done under the Common Seal of the Guardians of the
Birmingham Proof House.

The Common Seal of the

Guardians of the Birmingham
Proof House was hereunto
affixed in the presence of

C.C. Lemon
Chairman

D. M. Milne
Law Clerk

I approve the new Rules, Regulations and Scales of Proof

G. Sutcliffe M.P. 03/04/06

Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for
Employment Relations and Consumer Affairs

61
62
1