August 11, 2015

All,
This has probably been discussed previously, but I have been wondering about how to effectively record my inventory of Winchesters. I would like to see if there is a defacto standard that I could use that would help me out in a couple of ways.
First, I would like to have a document that could be passed on to someone that has little to no experience collecting and give them pertinent information should they wish to dispose of the inventory.
Second, I want to document the pertinent pieces of information that helps to establish condition, quality, and potential originality in the inventory.
Third, I would like to have something that could be used to communicate to other collectors the type of collection I have without going thru all the details; kind of like a contact list does.
Finally, I think it would help me out in focusing more specifically on the traits of the gun that are of interest to the majority, as well as contain my own thoughts/comments about the particular firearm and any additional meaning it might hold.
I have already started a simple XL spreadsheet with the basic information contained like model, SR no., caliber, purchase price and perceived value for insurance purposes. After reading many forum posts I am always reminded to add additional information that becomes add-ons over time like sight type, bore quality, % blue finish, Cody documentation, etc.
This may be something better left to each individual to decide, but am assuming that the detailed surveys that many conduct have a similar issue/concern/challenge and wanted to see if there was any merit in pursuing some sort of template.
I am also interested in starting a photo file for each gun and are probably left with having a folder structure for each gun that contains not only the gun features, but also pictures. was wondering if anyone had any thoughts on a standard array of poses or parts of any particular gun that should be included to help establish a solid documentation chain.
Thanks,
This is what I use. Best part for me is linking to photos stored on my hard drive.
"This is the West, sir. When the legend becomes fact, print the legend."
Here’s an Excel based collection management spreadsheet I developed for my custom knife collecting association (CKCA) some years ago.
Simple, but works well. Photos are hyper-linked so you can pull full sized from your hard drive of photo hosting sites like Photo Bucket or FotoTime. It can be edited and/or columns added to keep track of any info you want.
Quite a few knife collectors are using it. It’s works great for managing my knife collection so will be adapting it for Winchester use after I get my collection going. Just purchased my first one.
http://www.customknifecollectorsassociation.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=667
If anyone wants me to send you a template for your use just PM me your e-mail address.
Winchester Model 1873 44-40 circa 1886
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