“We usually start with “a” gun. For those fortunate enough to have grown up in a rural area or in a shooting or hunting family, it was often a .22 rifle or sometimes a shotgun which was a treasured childhood possession and perhaps the first totem of adult privileges and responsibilities. For some it may be a defensive handgun, purchased when well into adulthood as a tool to protect self and loved ones. Some will have been introduced to a shooting sport, and select a first gun to meet the needs of their chosen competition. Others will have a family heirloom passed down to them. And some will want a gun like John Wayne or Clint Eastwood had in the movies, or want a gun “just because,” which is plenty reason enough.”
A great opening to an interesting article, How to be a Gun Collector, shared by the NRAMuseum.com from author Jim Supica
There are many types of “gun” collectors out there, no matter the differences, we all have one thing in common and that’s the excitement of finding the “perfect” piece you’ve been looking for. The joy of bringing home your latest piece and examining the special find can be shared with any collector out there. Our audience typically falls in line with the “history buff collectors [who] will often be interested in a type of usage, perhaps military weapons, classic sporting arms, or competition guns.” As fellow collectors we understand the importance of finding trustworthy resources for the trade, especially when dealing with antique weapons. Especially for beginner collectors, it can be slightly unnerving to begin your search, find your sources, and take the first leaps to building your collection. Accuracy of facts, quality of care, and expertise on the industry are all important factors that can make a reputable vendor; on the other hand they can also turn a vendor into the one people warn you about. We have worked hard to serve the collecting community, through our honesty, integrity and knowledge with the artifacts we sell. The article goes on to discuss this top, reviewing sources for finding the guns you are looking for. There are more than enough options available but, it’s important to do your research prior to trusting a source.
If you are visiting our site for the first time, we fall into the category covered; “Specialty dealers – Dealers specializing in antique & collector firearms continue to be a good source of finds, offering a couple advantages. Good dealers will know their merchandise and can guide new collectors. Specialty dealers are also the ones likely to come up with the finds when rare or exceptional guns first surface.” And like the article stated, we are the go to guys! We know what we’re talking about and we are more than happy to help you find what you are looking for!