Find Gun Values, Used Gun Values

Firearm collectors span a wide range. Those just starting out and those who have been collecting for years will find that there is always something to learn. This holds particularly true when it comes to appraising a gun. As the demands change, so do the assessed values. Learning about the value of firearms is particularly important if a person is planning to buy or sell. The key elements to making an appraisal are knowing what kind of gun it is, determining the manufacturer of the gun and finally, assessing the overall condition of a firearm.

How to Determine the Kind of Gun You Have

The size of the gun can help determine the type of firearm. A handgun, also called a pistol or a revolver, is relatively small compared to other firearms. It is compact enough to hold comfortably in one hand. A shotgun is much larger than a handgun. It has a long barrel and a butt stock. It is used most often for hunting. A rifle looks similar to a shotgun, but is often automatic or semi-automatic. Knowing the caliber of the gun will help you as well.

Find Out Who Manufactured the Gun

Once you have determined the type of weaponry, it is time to search for a manufacturer name or other markings. This can often be found on the barrel of the gun. Write down any names, numbers or markings that you find on the firearm. You can then contact a local firearms dealer, consult a handbook or even run a search to determine the manufacturer and likely the age of the gun. You can use this information combined with the type and caliber to help decide what gun you have.

Condition of the Firearm

The condition your gun is in will have a lot of bearing on the value. In order to do this, you should be quite familiar with weaponry parts. Having a copy of the Blue Book of Gun Values is essential. This highlights condition standards to look for when assessing your weapon. The finish of the gun also needs to be considered. A gun in original condition with no modification will be worth much more than a firearm that has been changed from the original.

If you are unable to find a valuation resource that lists specifics for the model of gun you have, you may want to try some comparison shopping. Looking at similar guns for sale by dealers and private parties can help you come up with a close estimate of the value for your firearm. You can also stop into any local firearms dealer and ask about having an appraisal done if you are still unsure. Taking the time to research may be well worth the hassle.

If you are selling a firearm, be sure that you are familiar with the laws in your state. Know whom you can sell to, if there is a waiting period and what, if any, records must be filed. Remember that you can come down in price, but it is nearly impossible to go up unless you are selling in an auction format. If you are buying a firearm, check out comparable guns prior to purchasing. Ask for a detailed account of the gun’s condition and find out if there is any type of return policy if you are unsatisfied. Beyond local resources, firearm owner forums can be a great help in finding out what a gun might be valued at.

Using online resources will help you start on the right foot to getting an appraisal value for your firearm. The more information you can gather, the better. Try to find values through several sources so that you have a range of pricing to consider when buying or selling a firearm. The following links should provide helpful in your search.

• Appraising Rare Guns A useful resource for evaluating the worth of an unusual firearm.
• Firearm Terms and Abbreviations Informative list of trade name, abbreviations, firearms parts and other terms needed to properly identify a gun.
• Fine Old Guns Geared toward antique and military weaponry with information on determining value.
• Alabama Gun Collectors Association The ALGCA lists the NRA standards for both modern and antique firearms.
• Gun Appraisals An overview of what makes a gun collectible.
• Arms Collectors A search page that allows you to research the markings on your firearm.
• Ohio Gun Collectors Association An article to help evaluate a historic firearm’s value.
• Field and Stream A list of the top 50 guns ever made based on popularity, reliability and value.
• Gun Safety Online Diagrams help decipher the working parts of a firearm. This is useful when determining a gun’s condition.
• Gun Manufacturers A links page to various gun manufacturers. This can assist in researching the make and model of your firearm.
• Kull’s Arms Bid Helpful page that can assist in determining the value for a firearm.
• Gun Collectors Club Informative site with pictures and descriptions of many kinds of guns. This can help with identifying an unknown firearm.
• Gun and Sword Collector Helpful advice for new collectors.
• Gun Broker Researching completed auctions will help you gain an idea of what a gun is currently valued at.
• Blue Book If information cannot be found for free, you may want to consider investing in the Blue Book of Gun Values, which will provide a detailed listing regarding your firearm. This book is considered the industry standard for appraising and valuating guns.