Vall, This seems to be the auction houses' point of view. I would reply that bore condition, to someone who knows what to look for, is no more subjective than another part of a description. And, if the catalogers don't know what to look for, they could either be trained or replaced. If a company wants internet bidders, they should do what they reasonably can to give them information comparable to what on site bidders can see for themselves.
I do agree that bore condition should be stated, but I doubt even well trained folks will all agree on bore condition, anymore than they rarely agree on external condition. I've been collecting, and buying/selling antique guns for almost 50 years, and I've seen a huge disparity in that time between sellers. I'd venture to say I could take 5 guys and show them each the same gun, and ask their estimate of bore and exterior, and likely get 5 different opinions.
I've always tried to underestimate guns I sell. I have been lucky to date, as every buyer has told me the gun was "better than expected". Or that I was conservative in my estimate. I like hearing that, as too many people tell me the guns they buy are big disappointments when they finally get them in their hands.
I think I know the seller BrentD mentioned when he described those who use descriptions like, "Should clean up to..." or "good for it's age", etc. There is a online dealer using these phrases often, and I sent two guns back before I finally gave up on his lies, and clever descriptions. Cost me shipping, but usually the bores and general condition were both worse than described. I tell anyone who mentions his name to run away quickly!
