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Antique Firearm Collecting a Growing Hobby
Increasing political banter about the right to possess, own,
carry and fire different guns has left the future of firearms and their
place in the American culture uncertain. That uncertainty has sparked
renewed interest in the collection of firearms, particularly antique
firearms. A person who possesses an antique firearm holds a piece of
the old West and many gun owners believe the spirit of the old West is
something that is getting harder and harder to hold on to.
According to the United States Code, Title 18, Section 921 (a)(16), the
term “antique firearm” means any firearm manufactured in or before 1898
including those with a matchlock, flintlock, percussion cap, or similar
type of ignition system. The definition also includes any replica of
such a firearm if the replica:
1. Is not designed or redesigned for using rimfire or
conventional centerfire fixed ammunition
2. Uses rimfire or conventional centerfire fixed
ammunition which is no longer manufactured in the United States and
which is not readily available in the ordinary channels of commercial
trade
The United States Code specifically excludes antique firearms from the
definition of “firearms” under Title 18, Section 921 (a)(3). That’s
good news for firearms collectors who are worried their priceless
collectibles will become subject to the scrutiny of public officials
who are trying to protect the citizenry, not punish historic firearms
buffs.
An antique firearm is often considered to be a direct link to the Wild
West. Collectors are often sentimental about the significance of every
antique firearm they own. The value of an antique firearm – like any
other antique – is significantly based its condition. However, other
factors play a role too. If an antique firearm a very limited edition
made by a fine manufacturer, it has an increased value. If historical
significance of an antique firearm can be proven, such as its presence
at a particularly prominent battle in a war, or the fact that it was
owned by a famous individual or used in a famous crime or capture, then
its value also increases.
When collecting antique firearms, be aware there are many, many fake
versions and sloppy copies out there. Know your guns and understand how
you can identify fakes before you buy an antique firearm.
