[Ron Wood]

Probably 20 years or so ago, I kept an informal track of Luger prices. In the '70s and early '80s the value of my collection appeared to appreciate about 15% a year. Lately, as Wes observed, values are all over the place. Between "boosting" and folks with a lot of disposable income getting into the game, there are a considerable number of escalated prices showing up, particularly with the more rare specimens. I think this is pretty much the same trend as in other collecting fields. As more and more people get into the hobby, there are fewer prime pieces to go around.

I have always gone with the attitude that I buy the best I can and stick to a theme (mine is Imperial era, particularly grip safety contract models). This means fewer purchases, but a better collection. As Tom A says, â??you can always get more moneyâ? but you donâ??t always get a second chance at a desirable buy. Unfortunately, it isnâ??t always easy to come up with the money when an opportunity is presented, so some get away. But part of the fun is the thrill of the chase and the occasional discovery of a sleeper!