Examine the Finsih for Imperfections
Examine the Grips or Stock
Look at the Muzzle
Is the Barrel Clean?
Check All Moving Parts
From
old to new, handgun to shotgun, rifle to airgun, there
are several things you will want to know about buying
guns at auction before showing up at the auction block
ready to buy. Although it is likely that we could list
hundreds of pointers on this subject, here are a few good
points to consider first.
First, you'll want to examine the
finish for imperfections. Examine the firearm very carefully
from top to bottom. Look for any discoloring, perhaps
a thin coating, and particularly scratches. These are
things that are not likely to affect the function of the
gun, but will definitely change the value of the gun significantly.
If applicable, check the areas where the finish may have
worn off. Is there any rust in these areas? If so this
will also change the value of the gun.
Next, examine the
grips or the stock. Look carefully at any screws or bolts.
Determine first if they are tight or not. If they are
tight, does it appear that they had been tightened with
care? These factors will give you a good idea as to whether
or not the previous owner respected the firearm or not.
Look for overtightening or screws and bolts being stripped.
Again, these factors may have an influence on what the
firearm is worth.
Take a look at the muzzle. Chips
or cracks may indicate that the gun has been dropped at
some point. If a gun has been dropped, it is safe to say
that often times the gun will not be worth purchasing
unless it is either extremely rare or extremely cheap.
If you are collecting guns, this may be a tough decision
to make. Weigh the positives and negatives, and bid conservatively...it
may be an opportunity to add a gun to your collection
for little or next to nothing!
Although this next step may indicate
certain things, don't let it be a determining factor.
Take a good look at the cleanliness of the barrel. Don't
be surprised if it isn't spotless and clean...it is not
a good indicator of anything really. Even if the gun is
new, it is quite likely to have been fired at some point
ot ensure that it is functioning properly and is fit to
be sold at auction.
Finally, check the action, pump,
trigger, and any other moving parts for sounds like squeeks,
rattles, and abrasiveness. These are all excellent indicators
as to whether the gun is in good shape and is to last
for years to come. If things are not lining up in regards
to movable parts, odds are that you are going to make
a poor auction purchase that you may regret down the road.
So stop taking shots in the dark already!
Most gun auctions have plenty to choose from, so there's
no reason to settle for anything less than the best gun
at the best price. Follow the above listed steps and you'll
be well on your way to targeting the best guns!
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