Are you SURE you got free shipping?  I was charged shipping for something I purchased during that same sale and I called them and they stated they always charge for shipping.

Pretty sweet rifle, congrats. 

Mike

Don,

I live just about 5 miles from Collector’s and would have been more than happy to pick up the rifle and hold it for you.   Well I may have done a bit more than just hold it!!!  Very nice rifle and the $4200 price sounds pretty reasonable.   

Merry Christmas

Michael

mrcvs said
A month ago, I would have thought this to be a good price, maybe excellent.  Still a decent price, but here’s my thinking.  In the “Engraved 1895 Winchester” recent thread, lot 37 at the recent Rock Island Auction sold for $5463.  By the time you figure in shipping and insurance, you would be a bit north of $5500.  This gun is in .30-30, not antique, also has condition and has a multitude of deluxe features.  I thought easily an $8000 gun.  You have to ask yourself what the multitude of deluxe features is worth, what .38-55, is worth, what being antique is worth, and come up with a figure.  I would think at 8k for the other one, $4200 would be a no brainer.  Obviously, there is recent softening in the market.  

I will not argue about the regretful apparent “softening” of the market.  But, I will say that it is impossible to compare the sale price of one gun and then use that to justify/explain/or discount the possible price/value of another one.  There are just way to many variables and unknowns.  And to offer just one little piece of confounding evidence I present this “gem of a little 1892″ which just sold on Gunbroker for only $510!!!   And the barrel is most likely cut down 2 inches since it is listed as a 22”. That pretty much guaranties that every rifle in my collection is worth at LEAST $5000 on UP!!! 🙂

Michael

Maybe what we’re seeing is a shortage of enthusiastic buyers in certain segments of the market. Sometimes someone gets a bargain.

Mike

deerhunter said
Thanks everyone for their opinions, I’m very happy with the rifle.  It is a bit concerning as a collector to see the prices dropping on some pretty spectacular Winchesters lately.  I’m a youngster collector at the age of 46 and I like antiques, old guns, etc. but have noticed that much of what I like and collect have gone “out of style” with the younger crowd.  The antique malls and antique stores in my area are no longer there, etc.  I have tailored my Winchester collection to 80%+ condition and try to focus on those with unusual/special order features as well.  If I end up upside-down on a few, it’s been an enjoyable learning experience to say the least.

Don  

If you are a real collector and are not concerned about resale value the dip in the market makes it possible to buy more guns.  I have.

deerhunter said

That’s very true.  I am a dedicated collector, but at the same time I like to justify my purchases by calling it my “401K.”  However, you don’t lose or make money until you sell, right?  I don’t plan on selling anytime soon…or ever for that matter.  

I think it is the other way around.  You make the money when you buy it.  Yes, everything else is all on paper until you sell it.  I know several auction house owners who profess that collecting guns is better than a 401K.  I disagree but it can be one part of your retirement plan plus it is a lot more fun.  My wife and daughter have actually argued about who is going to sell my collection. 

Bert H. said

Chuck,

I would quell that argument real fast by looking them dead in the eye, and telling them you are going to outlive both of them!

Bert  

Bert I did something similar but you’ve met them and should know they don’t pay any attention to me.  Or visa versa.

Kirk Durston said
Beautiful 38-55 with very nice wood.  

Nice gun and it appears to have some select wood on it.