Buying Arms at an Arms Auction

An arms auction is an opportunity to purchase firearms for hunting, collecting or self-defense. However, buyers must follow all applicable federal and state laws. Arms that are purchased at an auction must be transferred to a legal owner. Buying at an auction is often exciting and competitive, so it’s important to know your limitations and stick to a budget. It is also a good idea to have your background checked before participating in an arms auction.

A gun dealer is a great resource for finding out if you are eligible to purchase or own a weapon. He or she can help you decide what types of weapons are best suited to your needs. Many dealers are licensed and certified by the federal government to sell guns. They also know the local laws regarding purchasing and selling firearms.

If you are looking to buy a gun at an antique firearm auctions, make sure that you attend the sale in person. This way, you can ask questions and see the firearms up close. In addition, the seller will conduct a background check on all of the prospective buyers. This will ensure that the buyer is a legal owner of the gun and that the weapon does not have any criminal history associated with it.

Several historical and exemplary guns are up for grabs in this week’s auctions. One of the most anticipated items is a Ruger M77 bolt-action rifle that belonged to Saddam Hussein, which will go under the hammer this September at Rock Island Auction Company in Illinois.

Other highlights include a rare German WWI 4 CHRF barrel flare pistol pictured ($7500-9000), naval line throwing devices, and a cannon ignition device. This collection also includes a rare Scottish two-handed sword and a Moghul jade hilted and jeweled dagger. Edged weapons from various epochs are also included, with the top estimate belonging to a North Italian hand-and-a-half sword C. 1550.

RIAC’s historic weapons auction also features five sporting arms once owned by Gerald R. Ford and a percussion rifle rich with American frontier history. The auction, which starts May 17 in Bedford, Texas, comes after 20 years of campaigning by Amnesty International to stop these arms sales.