Johnny676767
Private
- Joined
- Nov 30, 2020
Hello,
I just joined and wrote a short post in the introduction section. My recent trip to Gettysburg has planted the collecting bug in my head. I thought I would give you a bit of background and then ask your advice.
First, I am totally new to any type of Civil War memorabilia. I picked up a short, introductory book on small arms from a shop in Gettysburg that supplies uniforms to re-enactors. The guy I talked to was great and gave me a brief introduction. I decided I’d read and research before buying.
I understand that condition and rarity greatly affect price. From what I have seen looking online, the condition of the wood stock, metal barrel and lock vary greatly. I’ve been focusing on muskets/rifles (not sure how to refer to that class of arms). Barrels, for example, can be rusted, have a heavy patina, be heavily pitted, or recently cleaned. Stocks can have damage, repair, sandings, cleanings, and engravings. So, how much does all of this matter?Well, it seems fairly reflective in price.
The first piece I want is a long (original size) musket/rifle. I believe models 42, 61, and 63 or a 53 Enfield would be good choices. An 1816 conversation would be cool, too. At this point, contractor doesn’t really matter to me. I could see searching out different models and/or contractors down the line.
I would like to spend $1,000. I prefer an example that shows use. I wouldn’t mind attempting a bit of reconditioning although I don’t want to ”clean” it, rather just enhance/preserve if possible.
So, what are your thoughts on all of this? It seems, at least where I looked so far, it’s challenging to find a good example for $1,000 or less- maybe I need to go to a show? Should I save up a bit or hunt harder? Are there specific sellers or vendors you recommend? Do I need to worry about fakes? Are there specific books to read? I saw a “resource” section on this site that I’ll go to now.
Thanks in advance for all of your help. I’m excited to get started!
I just joined and wrote a short post in the introduction section. My recent trip to Gettysburg has planted the collecting bug in my head. I thought I would give you a bit of background and then ask your advice.
First, I am totally new to any type of Civil War memorabilia. I picked up a short, introductory book on small arms from a shop in Gettysburg that supplies uniforms to re-enactors. The guy I talked to was great and gave me a brief introduction. I decided I’d read and research before buying.
I understand that condition and rarity greatly affect price. From what I have seen looking online, the condition of the wood stock, metal barrel and lock vary greatly. I’ve been focusing on muskets/rifles (not sure how to refer to that class of arms). Barrels, for example, can be rusted, have a heavy patina, be heavily pitted, or recently cleaned. Stocks can have damage, repair, sandings, cleanings, and engravings. So, how much does all of this matter?Well, it seems fairly reflective in price.
The first piece I want is a long (original size) musket/rifle. I believe models 42, 61, and 63 or a 53 Enfield would be good choices. An 1816 conversation would be cool, too. At this point, contractor doesn’t really matter to me. I could see searching out different models and/or contractors down the line.
I would like to spend $1,000. I prefer an example that shows use. I wouldn’t mind attempting a bit of reconditioning although I don’t want to ”clean” it, rather just enhance/preserve if possible.
So, what are your thoughts on all of this? It seems, at least where I looked so far, it’s challenging to find a good example for $1,000 or less- maybe I need to go to a show? Should I save up a bit or hunt harder? Are there specific sellers or vendors you recommend? Do I need to worry about fakes? Are there specific books to read? I saw a “resource” section on this site that I’ll go to now.
Thanks in advance for all of your help. I’m excited to get started!