% question
- Thread starter deanodog
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Gunhacker
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Like the old saying goes... beauty is in the eyes of the beholder, and rating guns is much the same way, what one person considers 95% another may consider it being higher, or even lower. The NRA has some guidance here, written by forum member Jim Supica:
The National Firearms Museum: Evaluating Firearms Condition
Many folks aren't aware that there is a different rating criteria for modern and antique firearms and rate everything the same way.
The National Firearms Museum: Evaluating Firearms Condition
Many folks aren't aware that there is a different rating criteria for modern and antique firearms and rate everything the same way.
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Interesting topic, I find the percentage rating system as problematic. The system is totally subjective and based upon the perception of the grader. Another problem is the nature of the wear. For example a gun may be rated at 95%, if the 5% of wear is normal holster wear the gun probably doesn't look too bad. If the wear is a pitted rust spot or a flake of nickel off the side plate the gun may look awful. If the % system is used I think there are a few useful levels, I would only use 98%, 95%, and 90%, below that the gun is a shooter so % is less useful. Be especially wary of guns described as 92% 96% etc., such minor variation is about impossible to judge.
Rather than the subjective % system if the gun is not available to inspect I would prefer good clear photos and a detailed description of any wear, damage or problems, this is a more objective method.
I buy and sell many used guns for a major retailer and have examined thousands of guns in the past 5 years and still don't feel comfortable with the % system. If a customer calls about a gun I much prefer to give a detailed description of the gun and send good photos if necessary. If I am pushed to give a rating I normally offer a very conservative figure, I would rather have a pleasantly surprised customer than a disappointed one.
Rather than the subjective % system if the gun is not available to inspect I would prefer good clear photos and a detailed description of any wear, damage or problems, this is a more objective method.
I buy and sell many used guns for a major retailer and have examined thousands of guns in the past 5 years and still don't feel comfortable with the % system. If a customer calls about a gun I much prefer to give a detailed description of the gun and send good photos if necessary. If I am pushed to give a rating I normally offer a very conservative figure, I would rather have a pleasantly surprised customer than a disappointed one.
Measure the surface area of the weapon. Next measure (and total up) the surface area of all the imperfections. Take this number divide it by the total surface area of the gun which will give you the % that is messed up. Subtract that figure from 100 and you get the % of the gun that is not messed up and that is your % value of the gun.
OK Hog Shooter
Member
When it comes to grading guns... there's only two grades, as far as l'm concerned. I either own it or l want it!
Hog
Hog
Caje, great idea, I have seen this system proposed by a collector by using an overlay divided into small squares. Still doesn't address the nature of the missing finish. I suspect the system may offer some litigation opportunities, I'll split it with you!
Florida Guy
Member
I've seen some guns on GB rated 95% and when I look at the pics, I scratch my head wondering how the seller came up with that number.
Just show me good, clear pictures and let me rate the gun for myself.
Just show me good, clear pictures and let me rate the gun for myself.
I seem to have problems with taking good clear pictures especially close ups. I have always offered to refund if the buyer if not satisfied before transfer. I think the % leaves too much up for debate. I am not a collector but a shooter that likes to change guns from time to time.
It's a great idea - the SCSW even has a diagram of this - but I think it would need to be done as part of a computer software program. You would need standards for each gun model to determine surface area. Also, there are all kinds of finish wear, from missing/pitted metal and major to slight finish rubs, sometimes in the same area of the gun (think holster wear at the muzzle), and I don't know how you grade this.
Shooting Padre
US Veteran
If I'm selling a gun, it's in great shape, 90% or better. If I'm buying a gun, well, it's probably not worth it but I'll give you a hundred to take it off your hands.
