Gold emblem

Question
Does the GOLD NRA emblem add to the value of my guns? I have 8 S&W revolvers with this emblem and don't see many of them when shopping.

Answer
Hi Mike.

This all depends on which revolvers you have, the condition that they are in, and how many of each model were made with the special symbol.

In most cases it will take quite a few years (10 to 30+) for a handgun to become rare enough to have significantly more value than when it was new. The condition is the most important factor, followed closely by brand, model, and configuration. S&W is a fairly good brand so their firearms generally hold their value well, especially the older revolvers if you keep them in like-new condition. When it comes to different models and configurations you will generally get the best value from a popular model which sold really well when new, and a configuration of this gun which was relatively rare such as a shorter or longer barrel, special engraving, custom-ordered features, or ownership by a famous person. The NRA symbols alone will probably not add any significant value because these guns are typically made in larger quantities and relatively popular configurations, but if you have a rare configuration then the symbol would add even more value to an already rare gun.

I recommend that you purchase a copy of the Blue Book of Gun Values by S. P. Fjestad. This book contains detailed history and pricing information for virtually every major firearm on the market including older models and obsolete brands. It is well worth the price (especially if you own more than one firearm) and it is generally used as the sole source for appraisals by gunsmiths, collectors, and dealers. This book is updated every year to ensure that the values are always current so beware of older printed copies which are often sold at a discount but usually contain outdated information.

You can access the book instantly online at https://store.bluebookinc.com/Home/default.aspx or purchase it from any major book store such as Amazon, Borders, Barnes & Noble, etc. The price for either option is usually around $35 but I highly recommend the online subscription because you can get the information immediately plus check the site for updates at any time during the year. If you don抰 want to pay the full price for an online subscription or printed book then you also have the option to download a single section of the book for a specific manufacturer. The individual sections usually cost $5 or $10 but some of the sections are free.

By reading through this book you can learn how the different conditions, brands, models, and configurations effect the values and you can look up all of your current gun values.

Hope this helps!

Bob