Collector vs. Shooter

4 Scale · 02-22-2016, 07:38 PM

My answer is similar to dju's, I mostly agree but think in some cases one or more of the smaller parts may not match and the pistol is still collectible if it is in otherwise good shape. I think the pistol described in post #1 is collectible.

In my opinion, a collectable pistol valued at $2,000 or less may be shootable. I realize some will disagree so here is my logic:

1. Breakage of a major part may reduce the value of a collectible by 1/2.
2. Luger shooters tend to cost around $1,000 give or take.
3. Therefore pistols with a value of $2,000 or less (2X shooter cost) may be shot if it saves the cost of buying a separate shooter.

I realize this is a financial argument and ignores subjective arguments against shooting collectibles, such as having a duty to preserve history. I think it's a case by case matter. A middle ground may exist if parts that are most like to be damaged (left grip, firing pin, extractor, maybe the toggle) are removed and non-matching parts substituted on matching collectibles.

I offer this for discussion only, not trying to convert anyone.

02-22-2016, 07:38 PM	#6
4 Scale User Join Date: Nov 2014 Posts: 544 Thanks: 194 Thanked 490 Times in 251 Posts	My answer is similar to dju's, I mostly agree but think in some cases one or more of the smaller parts may not match and the pistol is still collectible if it is in otherwise good shape. I think the pistol described in post #1 is collectible. In my opinion, a collectable pistol valued at $2,000 or less may be shootable. I realize some will disagree so here is my logic: 1. Breakage of a major part may reduce the value of a collectible by 1/2. 2. Luger shooters tend to cost around $1,000 give or take. 3. Therefore pistols with a value of $2,000 or less (2X shooter cost) may be shot if it saves the cost of buying a separate shooter. I realize this is a financial argument and ignores subjective arguments against shooting collectibles, such as having a duty to preserve history. I think it's a case by case matter. A middle ground may exist if parts that are most like to be damaged (left grip, firing pin, extractor, maybe the toggle) are removed and non-matching parts substituted on matching collectibles. I offer this for discussion only, not trying to convert anyone.