Altering Repros, does it make a difference?

[Sam Ogle]

I think Mr. Armstrong was just making the point that shooters vs collectors happens with other guns as well.
I once had an old trapshooter tell me: "You can't find a Parker single-barrel trap gun that hasn't had someone idiot change something on it." While the point was well taken, I also recall that this trapshooter traded constantly, because he refused to change a gun to fit him properly, so was constantly looking for the "one."
When he passed, lots of fellows assumed he had a closet of fine guns......not so. He had traded many times, but never got the gun which "fit."
So, I don't want to start a war of words here, but I will shorten a gun to fit me, then shoot it for a long time.......and let the heirs worry about unchanged authenticity.
They are a tool to me.....not a priceless, revered object not to be touched.
(Ducking now, going down in my hole like a prairie dog under fire.)
Sam

[Wild Skies]

Originally Posted by Sam Ogle

I think Mr. Armstrong was just making the point that shooters vs collectors happens with other guns as well.

Sam, I understand exactly the point Mr. Armstrong was making. Of course people are free to make whatever alterations they want to their firearms. And others are free to disagree. But, that was not my intention, nor the focus of this thread -- which is what these alterations do to a Parker Repro in terms of value and collectibility.

[ForrestArmstrong]

Originally Posted by Greg Baehman

....the focus of this thread -- is what these alterations do to a Parker Repro in terms of value and collectibility

Recoil pads & choke alterations reduce value/collectibility.
Expertly enhanced engraving, muellered borders, case coloring & stock finish are positives to me, but probably have little effect on value/collectiblity.
Emphasize expertly, otherwise a mediocre job definitely reduces value/collectibility/desirability.
If in the future repros achieve similar status as original Parkers, any alteration will be seen as a negative.

[Duckman]

I agree with Sam and take comfort in knowing that Doug Turnbull's grandson will be able to fix ANYTHING 50 years from now!

[Bill Murphy]

Using Bob J's terminology, "speculative investments" as opposed to real collector guns, be aware that the modified Repro market will not include those buyers interested in "speculative investments". The modified Repro market will also not include collectors. What is left is the shooter market where buyers are interested in Repros at well below retail prices. I would love to buy another 28 gauge in "shooter" condition, at about $1500 to $2000 below normal retail price.