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Recently another collector and I discussed factory letters versus a data search sheet. He was concerned about the added cost for the letter which he felt says the same thing but it was also discussed the data search “does not constitute a factory letter and cannot be accepted as a verification of firearm configuration.”.
Just wondering what others think?
Rick C
To me a phone search is just as good as a letter if I buy a gun and if its a gun that I’m locking down I might buy a letter especially if I’m coming to the renewal date and have letters that are going to expire. There are some people that are not members of the Cody museum that look at the cost of getting a letter $70 or so a major cost and having one to go with the gun a plus.
Bob
WACA Life Member--- NRA Life Member---- Cody Firearms member since 1991 Researching the Winchester 1873's
Email: [email protected]
RickC said
Recently another collector and I discussed factory letters versus a data search sheet. Concerns were the added cost for the letter which says the same thing but, my take on this is the data search “does not constitute a factory letter and cannot be accepted as a verification of firearm configuration.”
“Cannot”? I, & most collectors, I think, accept it without question.
If you are referring to the yellow sheet as a “data research sheet”, most anyone will consider that as good as a letter, in my opinion.
I have always accepted yellow mailed or email printed data sheets when buying. If the gun is big bucks and questionable I will require a verbal guarantee to letter as is or make a call. T/R
win4575 said
If you are referring to the yellow sheet as a “data research sheet”, most anyone will consider that as good as a letter, in my opinion.
You’re showing your age. They haven’t been yellow for quite awhile. When buying a gun I will take whatever paperwork the seller has. Eventually, I like having a Factory letter. Besides it helps support the Museum. Jessi and crew need to eat too.
My two cents. I generally won’t buy a gun that can letter with out having a serial number search, meaning a gun in the range for lettering. I know a whole helleva lot can’t. But I trust the sns done. Then if I buy it I will get the authenticated letter to go with it. From what I understand it is a fair bit of work for everyone to produce that letter. So I don’t mind giving a few bucks for one, although I get a couple each year with my membership. I agree with Chuck, those nice folks gotta eat and and I think the center is a wonderful thing to support! Besides most collectors won’t even talk to you past “does it letter”.
November 7, 2015
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I’ll do a search when possible, request a letter if it’s interesting or unusual. At my membership level I never use all my searches or letters and I’m OK with that. Jesi, Angela and Danny are my heroes and I wish I could do more to support their efforts. The CFM and staff are a priceless resource for collectors, IMHO. When I grow up I want to be a CFM intern.
Mike
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