[Taz's Master]

Originally Posted by Jeff Higgins

I'm sorry, but the whole "collector firearm" thing just really bothers me. As does the whole "collector car" thing, and for all of the same reasons.

When well-heeled collectors gain an interest in anything, the market for them is essentially ruined for the enthusiasts who enjoy using whatever article that may be. Look what has happened in the early 911 world - ten years ago, they were the most affordable 911's out there. Then the collectors found them and drove their prices through the ceiling. Now the true enthusiasts, who really enjoy driving and wrenching on them, can no longer afford them. And they sit parked in someone's garage, never to be driven again. Someone who could care less if it's an early 911 or an expensive vase. All they care about is the investment value.

Firearms, of course, went down this path long, long ago. To me, the fact that that Python has never been fired is a crime. I would have fired it before ever getting home on the day I picked it up. That's just me - to each his own. I just think it's a crying shame that at this point, no one is ever likey to fire that gun and enjoy it in the manner in which it was intended.

Sigh. Rant over...

No argument, but that doesn't change reality. Firing that weapon would likely cost $800. I'm not interested in owning a firearm I can't shoot. But if I owned that Python, I sure wouldn't shoot it now, and I likely would have great difficulty parting with it. I would not be interested in purchasing it, but I cannot deny that I wish deciding whether to, shoot/sell/keep as is, were my problem.

I enjoy revolvers, but I think it is insane what prices people are giving for those things. What used to be a good solid tool is quickly becoming a priceless heirloom.