Quote:
Originally Posted by kdcarver
By collecticible, what do you mean?
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What makes a gun collectable is its being as close to the condition and configuration in which it left the factory as possible. So, original parts, original finish, and best condition possible. A Luger with all original-to-the-gun parts--not just period or model correct, serial numbers that should properly match--not "force-matched" by later re-numbering of replaced parts, or newly-stamped (faked) in inappropriate font....You get the idea, I'm sure.
Most serious collectors don't shoot their collectibles, particularly the rare or high end ones, because the breakage of an original, number matched part reduces it to "shooter" category, and its value plummets by perhaps two score (or more--depending...)percent! Shooting one's collectable guns is a personal decision. Some do it on rare occasions, because, well, sometimes you just can't resist. But each round presents the potential for a broken part. Bottom line, there's ALWAYS that risk. Bravado and stupidity in this question might just be the same thing. One can mitigate the risks somewhat by shooting with replacement stand-in parts for the ones most at risk of failure or damage, so there is some middle ground.
All mine are shooters, albeit in best condition I could afford. I sleep better at night than if they were seriously collectable!
Oh, and I don't think anyone has mentioned yet that when Jerry has fixed up your holster and you have it back, don't store the gun in it. It's risky to the finish to keep steel in leather long term.