while we here in the states do not have to follow the proof laws relative to selling old sxs guns, I suspect many would feel the value is effected by whether a gun is in proof or not. I own two classics, bought knowing they were out of proof but had the barrel walls checked and felt comfortable knowing I was only going to shoot light 7/8 oz loads in 12 ga guns proofed for 1 1/8 loads. In both cases I suspect my purchase price would have been substantially higher had they been in proof. I might add I consulted a few of my most knowledgeable friends regarding sending them back to England and have them reproofed and the answer was the same. "Why subject them to the stress ? Use them as intended and enjoy them. "
Agree with all of this, particularly on valuation. Bought and sold a wildly out of proof but solid hammer gun for cheap, and would probably do it again under the same circumstances. However, now I am primarily interested in in-proof stuff only. Would rather be able to advertise it as such at time of sale.
