[aigel]

I would like to add some hand guns to my safe. The goal is to get something that is collectable and holds its value. I am not opposed to 'safe queens', I understand that those may be the best "investment", but just like cars that are drivers, it'd be actually more enjoyable to be able to take the gun out a few times to the range or a hunt.

What would you look for to buy? What do you predict will hold its value or increase?

Some thoughts on revolvers, where I am probably the most literate. We will really have to educate me on pistols, so I will post more on those later!

Revolvers:

Colts:

Double action Colts such as python are very pricey because they are not made anymore. They sure are pretty ... You read on shooters forums and it turns out they may actually not be the best revolvers out there, if you plan on using them. Safe queen territory? Should I even bother? It looks like >2k for anything nice.

Single action Colts SA army. 1st gen is probably not an option. 2nd gen is the go to? Are these still as hot with brand new SAA available now? Would a brand new SAA make a good gun to own? I'd imagine it will be tracking wit the new price. I have seen some posts by Jeff who liked the new SAA.

S&W
The modern double action 357s and 44s in stainless seem to hold their value well even in shooter condition if they are pre-lock. These are nice guns to own and use and maybe a shooter quality .44 (629) is something to target?

The model 29 as seen in Dirty Harry seems still popular, but will it remain so, with that movie slowly disappearing in the past? Who still remembers that in 20 years? Seems also pricey and the long barrel versions aren't what you'd call practical or even easy to store!

Other S&Ws seem to be collectors items, but I am not sure I am that excited about an early 38 or 357. One gun I always thought was cool was an old Lady Smith. I could pretend it is a gift for my wife ...

Any of the hand cannon stuff like the .500 seem just silly. I don't want to shoot that.

Ruger

Makes nice revolvers. But are they too pedestrian to qualify for "collecting"

A nice .22 single six should be on the list? What to look for on one of those?

The vaquero and blackhawk SA seem solid guns but pretty basic?

I do like the Ruger "Alaskan". I know, that's a hand cannon, but with a purpose? What caliber would be best? Is the casull chambering obsolete with the .480 Ruger available? Or is a .44 enough?

Thanks!

George