An Interesting Hypothetical

[Bob Seijas]

Different collecting hobbies have different philosophies... junky old "barn find" cars that are restored bring huge bucks and get prestigious awards. One of my favorite TV shows is "Chasing Classic Cars." Maybe I'll start one called Chasing Classic Garands

[Bob Seijas]

So which of these would you rather have, the original and historically pure one or the total restoration? The person who paid $100K for the painted one certainly knew it was not original, it only simulated how it looked when it was new. Guys who restore Garands are trying for the same thing.Attachment 95768Attachment 95769

[browningautorifle]

Guys who restore Garands are trying for the same thing.

So, you'd pay big bucks for a complete parts rifle...?

[fjruple]

So, you'd pay big bucks for a complete parts rifle...?

Jim--

I have to agree with you. I recently seen an individual pay $3,000 for an "original" late Winchester M1 Garand which was brought home by a departed WWII GI. The only problem was the stock had been repaired in several places and was too new to use to in combat. (Used in Normandy and the Bulge) and the front sight was to H&R M1. I told the individual he should contact an expert who collects M1 Garands before purchasing the rifle. I referred him the Garand Collectors Association for advice. Unfortunately what happens with parts assemblers is they forget to pass on that the rifle was rebuilt back to its original configuration and not "original".