Investment Firearms??

JesseLee

I have been looking at investing in collectable firearms and would like to get some opinions. What do you think would be some good investment firearms? All opinion are welcome.

iwannausername

Anything full auto (pre-May '86), anything likely to be banned because of looks/features. High capacity magazines too...

ladams

I would recommend staying form the instant collectible tribute firearms. Usually they are worth less in the long run than initially paid, sometimes a lot less.

Robin

I am a practicing CPA and act in the capacity of an investment advisor for a lot of folks. My experience is related to investments in debt instruments, stocks, bonds, ETF's, mutual funds (my least favorite),etc. I am certainly not qualifed as an investment advisor for firearms but I have a few suggestions based on my personal not professional experience.

(1) Don't count on much over a return equaling inflation for a lot of stuff.
(2) If you are going to invest in a firearm of reputed investment quality, consult an expert in that particular type of firearm. Serious experienced collectors are knowledgable and picky. Appraisals, authentic factory letters, provenance are all important.
(3) Expect the investment to be long term and fairly illiquid as investments go.
(4) Pick a type or style of firearm that you enjoy having or showing and you will have a better chance of keeping interest in your investment strategy.

As a practical matter, I have a modest collection of pre-model S&W revolvers and some rarer pinned and recessed models. I am batting about 50-50 on buying models in a condition that are/will qualify as collectibles or investments. My true love is classic American high grade double barrel shotguns. I am learning, looking and have access to an expert to help me with my purchases. So far I don't feel ready to plunk down $10,000 -$15,000 for a investment grade LC Smith, AH Fox, etc.

One other consideration, investment grade firearms are considered collectibles by the IRS. Collectibles have their own tax rate on gains at a rate of 28%, almost twice the long-term capital gains rate. Sorry for the long answer, I hope this helps some

duckhunter

After 50 plus years in this business I have learned to buy guns that you enjoy. If they increase in value it is a plus. If you buy guns and they do increase in value you are LUCKY. Plan on a long term investment at or below inflation.

perry shooter

Duck Hunter has the right Idea buy what you like and feel good if value goes up [:)] But remember the % of people that collect go down each year[xx(] and with the stroke of the pen by MRS President Clinton the Government can tell you to turn then in . Don't think it can't happen It has all over the world. [:(!][V][:(]

ruger41

I'd say collectible Colt SAA's and Winchester lever guns and other pre 1899 firearms seem to hold their value--but I have seen some European double barrel rifles(like Rigbys, Westley Richards, etc) that really are up there-there are a few on this site going for upwards of $95,000 and down in the $10,000 range.

pjpjr

quote:Originally posted by iwannausername
Anything full auto (pre-May '86), anything likely to be banned because of looks/features. High capacity magazines too...

Be careful of the regulated firearms, like FA,or NFA stuff. What can happen is you invest your money in the "collectible" autos etc. and along comes Hilary, new regulations are enacted and WA-LA you are stuck with a firearm nobody can own. Don't think it can't happen, it will happen and then all of the investment potential of the NFA UZI or HK just disappeared.

JesseLee

Thanks for the great opinions and good view points, it really helped.

badsbsnf81

Colt SAA's. NIB or the best conditon you can afford in 1st or 2nd Gen. 3rd Gen-NIB only. Go for nickel and factory supplied ivory.

Factory engraved (Level C or D coverage by a Colt Master engraver) NIB.

Get letters on everything you can afford.

Old Model Ruger's. Again, NIB is best.

It is a long term (think 20-50 years) deal.