There were three huge collector gun auctions online this weekend. It seems one of them also had live people at it today. Usually, multiple auctions tend to spread the money and some bargains can be had. Well, despite Americans apparently giving up work, there was no shortage of money out there today.

Naturally, some of it was stupid money. How about a Walther CCP M2 in 380 that sold for more than MSRP before buyers' premium. Really?

The milsurp collectors were out in force. Two Persian Mauser long rifles sold for over $1000, Enfields were anything from $350 for a plain No.4 Mk1 all the way to $1700 for a No.1 MkV that was missing the upper band. Thought I might snag one of the three Venezuelan Mausers on sale at a reasonable price, but that plan went South. They all went for $550 or more plus 20%. Too rich for my blood, especially as I paid a biggish price for a Mexican 1924 Mauser. Not the best condition, but finding any complete Mexican gun is an achievement. A Mexican 1936 sold for even more.

Then there were the two Japanese Type I rifles at different auctions. The first one was rather pimp shined and the handguard fit was suspect. The second was more original looking and so I bid on it. Ha! It sold for twice my limit which just happened to be the number the other sold for. Yes, I saw a Type I sell for $650+20% to a bidder in the house. I'm guessing two guys in the house got into a bidding war.

Yep, it was fun watching, and most of it involved other people's money.

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Release the Kraken

I spent some of my money via a internet bidding auction on Thursday evening. I also may of spent more than the revolver was worth.

Often times the live auctions have a reduced buyer's premium for in house bidders especially if they pay by check or cash. One auction house I am familiar with has a 18% buyer's premium for internet bidders and an in house buyer's premium with cash/check premium of 10%.

plus sales tax. Probably 7-8%.

My local auction houses are 10% plus 8% sales tax. Some online auctions can be found for 15% but don't have the quality pics or informed descriptions as the big boys.