LIFE & TRENDS


fi rearm, it’s vital to understand the legal side of things. Under federal law, you can inherit


a fi rearm without going through a licensed dealer. But if the person receiving the


fi rearm lives in another state, the transfer must go through a Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) on their end. That applies even if it’s your son or granddaughter. Then there are states that like to


Passing Down Gunsthe Smart Way


What your old firearms could be worth. ::


BY BECCA BLOND I


f you’ve spent a lifetime collecting fi rearms — whether for hunting, protection, or pure appreciation of American


craftsmanship — chances are you now have more than a few tucked away in a safe. From classic Colt revolvers to surplus military rifl es, certain fi rearms are fetching real money. Others may hold more sentimental than fi nancial value.


WHICH ARE WORTH A SECOND LOOK? Some older guns are in high demand, especially if they’re in good condition and have some history behind them. Take the Colt Python, for example.


Well-preserved models from the 1960s through the 1980s routinely sell for $2,000 to $4,000 or more, especially with the original box and paperwork. The Colt Single Action Army, particularly pre-World War II models, can fetch even higher prices. The California Combat


Python, with only about 200 units manufactured, is one of the rarest models, with one selling for $70,500 at auction.


72 NEWSMAX MAXLIFE | OCTOBER 2025 The Winchester Model 70 —


especially the highly prized pre- 1964 versions — remains a staple among collectors and hunters. Prices commonly range from $1,200 to $2,500. Models with unusual calibers or confi gurations can go for even more. Smith & Wesson revolvers from the


1950s to 1980s — particularly pinned and recessed .357 models like the 27, 28, and 19 — hold steady value. Clean examples often sell for $800


to $1,500, with certain nickel fi nishes or rare barrels commanding top dollar. Surplus U.S. military fi rearms


are also popular. M1 Garands from World War II, especially those with matching parts and clean stocks, can bring in $1,200 to $3,000. Springfi eld 1903 rifl es fall into a similar range depending on model and originality. Even Browning Auto-5 shotguns, particularly the Belgian-made versions, are seeing renewed interest, typically ranging from $800 to $1,500. If a gun was made by a well-known manufacturer and still looks like it could go another hundred rounds, chances are there’s a market for it. Condition matters. Original fi nish,


matching serial numbers, and intact mechanical function are important.


WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW If it’s time to sell, give, or transfer a


make things more complicated. In places such as California, New


York, and New Jersey, certain rifl es are labeled “assault weapons” based on cosmetic features — pistol grips, fl ash suppressors, or barrel shrouds — not function. These laws can make it diffi cult,


or outright illegal, to keep or transfer otherwise legal fi rearms. You may be forced to register the gun, modify it, or in some cases, surrender it. Before making any move, especially


across state lines, it’s best to consult a local FFL. They can tell you whether a transfer is straightforward or subject to restrictions.


SELLING OR CONSIGNING If the fi rearm isn’t something you want to keep but has value, consider selling it through a licensed shop that accepts consignments. Reputable shops will appraise


the gun, list it for you, and handle the background check and transfer process. This is often safer and more profi table than listing it online. Gun auctions, particularly


regional or national events like those hosted by Rock Island Auction or Morphy Auctions, are another route for high-value or historically signifi cant pieces. These venues are more likely to attract serious collectors who understand the worth of what you’re off ering. Private sales between residents of


the same state may still be legal in some areas, but make sure you know your state’s laws before proceeding. A paper trail is always a good idea.


GSAGI©ISTOCK


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