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SMALL ARM PROOF


A UNIQUE SERVICE IN FRANCE
SMALL ARM PROOF

Small ARMS TESTING IS THE HISTORICAL ACTIVITY OF BANC NATIONAL D’ÉPREUVE, A ONE-OF-A-KIND SERVICE IN FRANCE

Blason Banc National d'Epreuves de Saint-EtienneBACKGROUND

The Saint-Etienne Proof House was created by royal appointment in 1782. In 1960, testing became compulsory for all civilian firearms and in 2010, the institution was called “Banc National d’Epreuve“.

SMALL ARMS TESTING

Poinçon Banc aNAtional d'Epreuve des armes de Saint-Etienne

With user safety in mind, the testing is focused on checking the resistance of the firearm. Following examination by a sworn test officer who checks the condition of the barrel, the inner dimensions, the locking and percussion mechanisms, the firearm is tested by firing over-pressure cartridges. A second in-depth examination is carried out after firing. Approved small arms are then marked, certified and registered.

Advices for hunters and sports shooters

  • Check that your firearm has been tested by a CIP proofhouse.
  • Any modifications or repairs to safety devices make re-testing obligatory, and if you have any doubts, the Banc National d’Epreuve can test your firearm at any time; the Banc National d’Epreuve recommend re-testing after 30 years.
  • Only use cartridges the packaging of which bears the “CIP” logo with the name of the Banc National d’Epreuve who carried the manufacturer’s approval.

Essais de sécurité des armes de petit calibre

SMALL ARMS SAFETY ADDITIONAL TESTING ACTIVITY

  • Endurance
  • Precision
  • Drop test
  • Firing with barrel obstruction

C.I.P.: PERMANENT INTERNATIONAL COMMISSION FOR THE PROOF OF SMALL ARMS

C.I.P.

From 1914, the French proof house and four other European proof houses shared their procedures and 1969 saw the arrival of an international convention laying down international firearms testing standards. The signatory countries agree on the mutual acceptance of the proof marks of each country, in their territory. The member states incorporate the standards produced by the C.I.P. into their national legislation.

For further details: www.cip-bobp.org

 For more information :

  • Delivery hours: Monday to Thursday: 8h00 AM >11h30 AM and noon >3h30 PM . Friday 8h00 AM > 11h30 AM .