[JFF]

Hello all. First off this is my first post so I'd like to say, "Hey".

The reason I'm posting is that I have a couple guns that I would like to trade in/sell to get another more desireable gun to me. I do not have experience doing this and was wondering how it's successfully done by people.

I don't care to deal with eBay and would prefer to do business face to face.

I'm just concerned because I don't want to get hosed with regard to the transaction. When I purchased my last gun, I got an estimate on it from the person (shop) I bought it from. I was shocked at the price offered (not very much).

I read on boards about firearm enthusiasts that trade what seems like on a weekly basis. Are they independently wealthy, or what? It seems like you lose (depreciation) on each transaction you would make.

Thanks in advance.

 

[JFF]

Thanks Fernando!

I believe there is some sort of "blue book" that lists the value of firearms. Do you, or someone else know what the name of that publication is...and also if it's available for free on the net somewhere. I'd like to get a ballpark of what price to ask.

Jay

 

[JFF]

Thanks for the info…I guess it boils down to what Charlie mentioned: “Buy things (guns) that you know you will like and are willing to keep a long time.

I can’t go the used gun route as mentioned. There’s always that thought lingering in your mind as to why to previous owner got rid of it. Is it really flawed? But, this would make sense if you have the experience from being in the hobby/business a long time.

The blue book does not look like a good investment at this time. I do not plan to trade/sell/buy a large number of guns. I like what Ed & Tim mentioned about cruising completed auctions and seeing what price the market is bearing at the moment. This seems like the most pertinent way for me to determine the going rate. Or, I could do what Ed mentioned and browse the local book store.

David, is that your real name? Yikes, what a b$tch if by happen-stance it is. You sound reasonable/informed/and well balanced. This is, of course, if it is truly you giving this advice, and not your dog. I can understand the seller’s remorse thing that you bring up, but one of the guns is built for carry, and I’ve lost confidence in it.

Well, once again thanks. I’m going to “push back” and wait. I don’t like the taste of taking the hit of depreciation. Perhaps I’ll come across someone locally that just can’t live w/o the gun(s) I’m trying to get rid of. Plus, there is the emotion thing that might change as time marches on.

My biggest question has been answered. There is not a “magic wand” out there for those people that trade/sell guns frequently (not necessarily every week).

 

[JFF]

David:

LOL...good reply...

Jay

 

[JFF]

Mad Ogre,

That is exactly what came to my mind...leasing of a car...which I don't participate in. I'm on the other end. I buy a car, and run it into the ground. Getting rid of it when it is cost prohibitive to repair. I drive down the highway with a smile on my face for numerous years in a paid-off vehicle...that is my pay back.

Thanks again to all of the wise/informed/personal experiences of those that have posted to my original question!