Collectables - to shoot them or not to shoot them- that is the question

[RShaw]

Hi all,

I realize this forum is a source of much information and a wealth of experience... therefore I bring up this issue here.

If I define a "collectable" as a firearm with matching parts and mag, in at least "very good" condition - let's say whose price is less than or equal to $2,500 - clearly an unusual find which would look great in a display case and draw "oooo's and ahhh's" from those who see it... or turn heads at the range....

Are there ACTUAL STATISTICS of such collectables failing, or parts breaking.. about which we are all a bit nervous? Or does that actually occur only very occasionally? Who of you out there has "taken the gamble" only to break a part and kick yourself later?
Of course I am assuming that the basic precautions are taken- a thorough check by a competent gunsmith, using correct ammo, perhaps a new mag and springs rather than the originasl, and of course proper cleaning and maintenance.

On the one hand, as one person has said, "they can't all be safe queens." AND, "We always see advice not to shoot "valuable" collectibles here. FWIW, I've never had any part fail while shooting these guns. They were originally very well made..... I say to enjoy your guns since you truly can't take them with you. Otherwise, somebody is going to get a great deal on a nice gun -- from your estate."

However, the other side is: "Personally I don't shoot a nice matching firearm, but I have a shooter-grade or two....Chances are excellent nothing will go wrong, but... if they do it might be A Bad Thing (at the very least involving swearing and maybe some tears)" AND "The main reason for not shooting it is the potential for damaging a numbered part. These can be very difficult to replace. Parts can and do break.....Many of us would consider a matching firearm with matching magazine too valuable to shoot- for if one breaks a numbered part, he would take a hit of about 1/3 the value of the piece.

We are talking about probabilities here aren't we? Are we willing to shoot a collectable and willing to take a hit of ca $800 on a $2500 firearm?

On the other hand, a nice shooter which looks good... also costs quite a bit. So we're back to square 1 aren't we?

Maybe I just answered my own question. Thanks for reading... (if you have gotten this far)