To answer your question it's because the barrels are interchangeable, the barrels do not require an FFL to transfer thank goodness. This way you know if you have the original barrel.
That engenders two questions.
1. Does a gun with an original barrel have more value than one with out?
2. Do All those barrels with serial numbers sold by cz just as barrels, have empty receivers sitting somewhere?
I have (2) CZ 455 Varmint’s that have different serial numbers on the barrels. One is a Varmint Thumbhole the other is a Varmint Evolution Coyote. . . Both have fluted barrels. :heartpump :heartpump All the rest of my 452, 453, 455, 457, & 512’s have matching serial numbers. :bthumb: :t
I’m guessing those who bought the 455/457 Americans with combo barrel sets would also not have the same serial numbers (at least on one of the barrels).
I have (2) CZ 455 Varmint's that have different serial numbers on the barrels. One is a Varmint Thumbhole the other is a Varmint Evolution Coyote. . . Both have fluted barrels. :heartpump :heartpump All the rest of my 452, 453, 455, 457, & 512's have matching serial numbers. :bthumb: :t
I'm guessing those who bought the 455/457 Americans with combo barrel sets would also not have the same serial numbers (at least on one of the barrels).
I recall reading at one time that some countries (I think South Africa might be one) require serialized barrels, that the barrel is the part that is tracked by whatever registration system they employ.
No idea if that has anything to do with why CZ does so.
Other makers do similar. First example that leaps to mind is my Walther Q5 9mm pistol. It has a serialized barrel, number matches the frame. Reckon if I scoured through the safe I'd find other examples.
It's a European requirement whereas the barrel is often considered a part of the firearm (vs. here in the US where it's the frame or receiver alone that's considered the "firearm"), e.g., Glock does the same thing in an effort to "...comply with any existing or anticipated laws."
Some companies sell action separately. BUT they only warrant their complete rifles, not actions. So matching barrel/action tells everyone it was sold as a complete rifle, for warranty claims. rebarring usually destroys any warranty.
My one and only 455 came with a barrel number that did not match. I am certain this was a legit brand new American. The number was not something in the usual sequence and my suspicion is this got replaced in the QC process. I would have to find that barrel and look, it was something like A0000123.
European thing and MAYBE an import thing as well ALL of my HK handguns are matched to the frame, but my early 80's(before import laws) sporting rifles, are not.
I looked at both my West German P226 and the Gloves. They too have matching numbers.
I do know that in many, maybe most, countries that barrels and misc parts are also regulated. Since CZ is a Czech company and they sell all over the world I bet this is the reason.
Dont forget headspace could be off or less optimum on a replacement barrel or one from another gun. I think it is very useful for an owner of multiple 455/7 to have the barrel serialized. Some older guns, German and Swedish Mausers for example, have numbers on almost every part, lock stock and barrel.
I would not assume CZ is legally required of forced. They might just be doing a good thing because they are a good company. Wild idea, it could be.
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