Of course the first answer is, does it matter? And of course the answer is, NO. But, I started pondering this issue this morning as I looked over an auction sale bill. I tend to gravitate to the guns I know and the guns I hope to own and shoot some day. Have always told people who see my guns that I'm a shooter, not a collector. Two of my best friends and other people I know are life-long collectors. They own 100s of guns. One friend "Jim" has organized his collection in a jaw-dropping museum quality display. Another friend "Joe" hides his in his basement and never invites anyone to see them, even good friends. Joe owns several of each model, like 6 Browning Highpowers, several Ruger Single Sixes, etc. Jim has whole collections of, say, derringers with each one being unique with very few duplicates. My gun madness lends itself to 2 or 3 of the same caliber, like three 17HMRs, two .243s. A "collection" for sure, but I do sell guns to finance other gun purchases or if I don't shoot it anymore. When I'm looking to buy another gun, it's always for a purpose. Jim's wife asked him how much one of his guns was worth and why didn't he sell it. His answer, " I bought it to have not to sell."
In asking this question, I realize it is a pointless distinction, but just enjoy reading the response of others should you care to respond. Something to do on a cloudy cold day.
In asking this question, I realize it is a pointless distinction, but just enjoy reading the response of others should you care to respond. Something to do on a cloudy cold day.