re-blueing a model 1911

Question
QUESTION: Dear sir, we inherited some firearms from my father in-law about 18 years ago and I have multiple questions regarding them. They include a 1936 luger, a colt 45 model 1911, a German mouser k98.

Should we or do we need to register them? (California).

The model 1911 needs to be re-blued, is cold(at home) blueing okay to do and will this devalue the gun ?

The k98 has matching numbers from 1940 and is in excellent condition, do you know the approx. value ?

Thank you very much, John.

ANSWER: John,

Sounds like you now have several potentially very nice guns.  First, you do not need to worry about registration in California.  The only registration requirement is for assault weapons.  None of the ones you have fall into that category.

As far as the Colt 1911, I would probably not do a home re-bluing job on it.  I would have it professionally done.  Bear in mind that anything that reworks or modifies the original condition of the firearm will affect its value in a downward direction.  If you are considering selling the 1911, I might consider leaving it in the original condition.  It will still have more value than any reworked gun.  I can't give you an approximation on that value without more specifics since there are SO many Colt 1911 models.  Some are worth quite a bit of money.  Even the older shooters that are in not so great condition can command prices in excess of $750 if they are in decent operating condition.

As far as the Mauser K98 is concerned, the value can vary quite a bit based on the exact condition of the gun, whether it has any corrosion in the barrel, any rust, whether it is still in original condition, etc.  All I can do without photos or a very detailed description is give you some ranges.

98% condition - $800
95% condition - $725
90% condition - $600
80% condition - $400
70% condition - $300

A gun in 98% condition is basically going to look like it has just been removed from the box and is in 'like new' condition.  Grading it from there really requires that someone familiar with the grading criteria examines the gun and even then, it is a bit subjective.  Most guns of this age are in 80% condition or less.  An exceptional specimen might be at 90%.  In my opinion, only a gun that has been in the hands of a collector for a significant period of time is likely to be in 95% condition or better.  (Just my opinion...)

BTW, your Luger could be worth a decent amount if it is in good condition.  WWII vintage Lugers are very desirable for whatever reason.

Hope this helps you out a bit....

Regards,

Doug





---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Doug, just one more question if I may. My friend owns a Thompson sub-machine gun. He bought it from a gun store when it was legal to do so. Can he still register it and can he ever sell it to someone who owns a model 1911 ?? Thanks again, John.

Answer
John,

If the Thompson is a semi-auto, it is treated as any other long gun.  You would definitely need to register it as an 'assault weapon' since you can purchase large capacity magazines for the gun.  

If it is full auto, your friend could only sell it through a class 3 firearms dealer.  As far as class 3 firearms are concerned, you need to get a permit for each class three weapon you purchase.  It is actually a 'transfer stamp' vs. an actual license.  Each class 3 device (firearm, shotgun, suppressor, etc.) is associated with a single individual.  This regulation applies to anything that falls under the National Firearms Act of 1934.  

To purchase a class 3 device ,a buyer would need to complete a "ATF Form 4" which any class 3 dealer can supply you with or you can get at the following link:

http://www.atf.treas.gov/forms/pdfs/f53204.pdf

That form must be signed by the local sheriff or a local judge.  You would then need to submit the Form 4, a fingerprint card and a fee of $200 to BATF.  Approval generally takes between 30 and 60 days.  The buyer would need to pass a background check before the transfer paperwork will be issued.  

A class 3 firearms dealer will usually help you process all this stuff...and will hold your desired firearm (with a deposit of course) while the paperwork is moving through the process.

Best of luck to you and hope this helps you out...

Doug