ltwguns.com

My insurance company says that I need a written appraisal on all my high replacement value items. Fortunately, I don't have any -- except my 1985 full-blown custom Heinie Government Model.

So, where do I get such an appraisal? I thought of asking Richard, but I don't know what insurance companies expect. My broker knows what to do about jewelry and paintings, but she can't conceive of a gun worth much money.

What do you guys know?

ML

Id suggest contacting someone who specializes in selling high end customs...

There is a well known dealer here who posts in the for sale part of the board often, I think he might be able to help.

A letter from someone whose impartial and sells lots of guns I think would be better then from the company who made it.....

Just my two cents.

_________________
Kentucky Colonel, Tennessee Squire & Combat Leprechaun
"You won't rise to the occasion - you'll default to your level of training." Barrett Tillman

If you send it to me I'd be happy to "appraise" it. Seriously, though that's a good question. I would think a reputable gun dealer, or two, could offer you a written appraisal. That said there are collectable market appraisers.

I'd get a contact Richard.

I make my living in the collectible business and have some experience with insurance companies and giving evaluations. Each insurance company deals with things according to their whims it seems. However, one of the nice things about the big bad internet is that for many items determining value and replacement costs is easier than ever. I have seen auction closings, message boards sale and sold postings, dealers listings, etc. all be used to establish value. This becomes more difficult in things with some subjective value (artwork, custom guns). Not every Picasso is worth the same just as some Heinies will be worth more than others. Plus keep in mind, what they say they need for documentation now may very well be different when it comes time to pay out. On items that I feel shaky on (meaning ones that I worry the insurance company will screw me on), I keep a print out and a saved HTML file of any sale that would support my evaluation.

My insurance agent provided me with specific guidelines as to what was acceptable to her and my carrier when having appraisals done. You might want to ask your agent if they can provide something similar.

_________________
Tommy C.
NREMT-B
NRA Life Member / TSRA Life Member