Firearms appraiser

[3S16]

The value of my small gun collection, far exceeds what my home owners insurance will cover in case of loss (yes, I have a substantial gun safe bolted into concrete). So, I have to get an "insurance rider". To do this, I have to have my collection appraised. Anyone who has cruised the gun auction sites becomes immediately aware of the huge price difference between gun values in "free states" as opposed to California values.
That said, does anyone know of a reputable firearms appraiser that will do an in home appraisal? It would be impractical to haul them all to a shop. I'm in Ventura County.

[GW]

Worse comes to worst, Get the Blue Book of Gun Values. List your guns by make, serial number and caliber with your estimate of the condition and take pictures. Secure copies of this info with a trusted friend or safety deposit box.
This should be sufficient for insurance purposes.
Unless you have some very rare items ala .45 ACP Luger...

[-hanko]

Worse comes to worst, Get the Blue Book of Gun Values. List your guns by make, serial number and caliber with your estimate of the condition and take pictures. Secure copies of this info with a trusted friend or safety deposit box.
This should be sufficient for insurance purposes.
Unless you have some very rare items ala .45 ACP Luger...

I would generally agree...I've done the same and have my info on paper both in the gun safe and at the bank.

For especially rare and/or scarce items, Butterfield's in SF and LA do have experts that know their stuff.

The last place I would approach would be a California gun store.

[003]

Contact Spencer at Lock Stock and Barrel in Simi Valley He can give you current actual prices for recent sales.
(805) 285-0715

http://www.lsbauctions.com/

[I Swan]

Unless you have a large amount of expensive and rare guns I'd not bother with the appraisal and frankly maybe not with the insurance. Maybe do a self appraisal first with help here and with the blue book then decide if you want to go further and spend more.

Getting a appraisal done will not be cheap in many cases. I'd be happy to help you when I'm in your area but I'm not an expert

[3S16]

Thanks for the suggestions. I'll do the log and photos. I'll give give spencer a call too. I've bought a couple of guns from LSB through their Gun Broker auctions.

[I Swan]

Let us know what they charge you. Might be cheaper to take your guns to whoever appraises them.