Value Going Forward

[edgarspencer]

If you're comparing two otherwise similar guns (i.e. both are same gauge, frame size and barrel length), and both are original, Then Rarity can equal, or exceed condition. There were less than 1200 BH (E) guns, but over 18,000 DH(E) guns. In fact, there may be more 'high condition' D grade than all the B grades
A high condition DHE in a small bore may fetch more than a lesser condition BHE 12 bore, so you need to factor all the common features.
In you're in it to make money, you need to buy with your head. If you buy to own and enjoy, let your heart play a bigger role. Keep in mind also, that some barrel lengths come in, and go out of fashion. 30 years ago no one wanted long barrel guns, now the 26" guns move much more slowly.

[Bill Murphy]

Historically, high condition and high grade guns have outperformed shooter condition guns. Smallbore and eight gauge guns have outperformed guns in other gauges. Of course, some people will just not buy high condition or high grade guns, nor will they pay the price for smallbore or eight gauge guns. That's OK, because the basic rule of gun collecting is "The profit is made on the buy, not the appreciation." In other words, collectors who are interested in the bottom line do not pay retail. If you are not buying in the top end of condition and grade, you must buy your average guns at a price where the appreciation is on the front end. In other words, if you buy a $1000 gun for $750, your profit is already built into the deal. All future appreciation is gravy. It is up to you to decide which group you want to be in.

[Big D]

In my experience, investing in commodities like guns, fly rods, cars is a tough way to go. If you take into account the time required to become knowledgeable, the costs involved (ie gun safes or garages) and the discount your family will probably incur to sell your treasures when you pass, there must be better alternatives.
On the other hand, it ain't much fun to sit in your man cave and fondle a stock certificate

[Mark Callanan]

Originally Posted by John Dallas

In my experience, investing in commodities like guns, fly rods, cars is a tough way to go. If you take into account the time required to become knowledgeable, the costs involved (ie gun safes or garages) and the discount your family will probably incur to sell your treasures when you pass, there must be better alternatives.
On the other hand, it ain't much fun to sit in your man cave and fondle a stock certificate

Amen to that
The older you get the joy you enjoy holding and looking at you investments

[C grade]

This is a great discussion with comments by some very knowledgeable Parkerites. I completely agree with Pete,Brian,Robin,Edgar and Bill and suggest you really study their statements. Personally I have found small gage high conditions Parkers that I have owned have appreciated the most, by far. I think it is very difficult to make a decent profit on guns purchased from dealers. I would purchase the highest grade, high condition small bore that I could afford but condition over grade. The other thing is be patient.
JMHO
David

[Bill Murphy]

Of course, Zachow is right. Putting Colts and Winchesters into the discussion will educate us all. But they are so different from shotguns in that almost any special order feature or almost any interesting provenance will put their value into the stratosphere. Not so much with shotguns unless the provenance is off the scale.