I sold several guns through Amoskeag about 4-5 years ago. The firearms sold well I thought. They use(d) a staggered fee system based on what level of value the gun falls into. Guns that bring less have a higher fee. I also sold several lots of ammunition and related equipment. I was not impressed that they broke up what I had brought as lots. So instead of selling, say, 10 boxes of DWM ammo as a lot they broke it up into individual boxes or smaller lots. Thus increasing their take on lower priced lots. It also took them 3-4 auctions to finally sell everything off. If there is a next time I will likely try Poulin's, though all the auction houses operate the same way with minor differences. Poulin's is just closer now.
The one advantage is the bidding war phenomenon. One of the rifles I sent to auction was realistically worth right around $2k. It sold for $4k. Two people really wanted that gun. That's nice to have happen but you shouldn't count on it.
Auctions in general don't really offer any other reliable advantage. I can realize 60% of a gun's value by selling it to a friend or acquaintance, have an enjoyable transaction, and generate some good will. And get the money then and there. Same with selling to any number of dealers or at a gun show. All you're really getting at auction is convenience. Plus, if you sell to people you know you can always get the gun back if you realize you made a huge mistake.
I really like your thinking. You amass all this junk not thinking about disposal as we think we are going to live forever. Your kids or your significant other doesn't fancy it nor want it & someone has to liquidate it.
Serbus,
Raimey
rse
