Top 5 Guns That Hold Their Value (And 5 That Don’t)
Posted by Quick Draw Gun on Apr 1st 2026
If you’ve ever bought a firearm and later wondered what it’s worth, you’re not alone.
Some guns hold value incredibly well, even increasing over time. Others lose value the moment you leave the store.
At Quick Draw Gun in Monett, Missouri, we see it every day. Two guns with similar original prices can have completely different resale values.
So what makes the difference?
What Makes a Gun Hold Its Value?
Before getting into the list, here are the key factors that matter:
- Brand reputation
- Build quality
- Demand (which changes constantly)
- Condition
- Originality (no modifications)
- Limited production or collector appeal
Now let’s break it down.
Top 5 Guns That Hold Their Value
1. Colt 1911 (Especially Older or Limited Models)
Colt has one of the strongest reputations in firearms history.
- High collector demand
- Strong resale market
- Limited editions increase in value
Some models sell for more than their original price years later.
2. Glock 19 (and Other Glock Pistols)
Glocks are widely used and consistently in demand.
- Reliable and simple design
- Large buyer market
- Easy to resell quickly
A used Glock will almost always move fast.
3. Pre-64 Winchester Model 70
A favorite among collectors and hunters.
- Historical significance
- High-quality craftsmanship
- Limited supply
Well-maintained examples continue to appreciate over time.
4. Browning Shotguns (A5, Citori, etc.)
Browning firearms are known for durability and performance.
- Strong demand in hunting markets
- Long-lasting build quality
- Classic designs
Quality Browning shotguns rarely sit unsold for long.
5. Ruger Revolvers (GP100, Blackhawk, etc.)
Ruger revolvers are known for their strength and reliability.
- Durable construction
- Loyal customer base
- Consistent demand
They may not be flashy, but they hold value extremely well.
5 Guns That Don’t Hold Value as Well
1. Budget Turkish Shotguns
Examples include brands like GForce, Tokarev USA, Panzer Arms, and SDS Imports shotguns.
- Lower initial price
- Heavy market saturation
- Inconsistent long-term demand
They can be solid shooters, but resale value is typically lower due to how many are on the market.
2. Heavily Modified Firearms
Common examples:
- Custom Glock builds with aftermarket slides and triggers
- AR-15s with mismatched or budget parts
- “One-off” Cerakote or cosmetic builds
- Personal upgrades limit buyer interest
- Harder to sell
- Smaller resale market
What one person loves, another may avoid completely.
3. Off-Brand or Lesser-Known Manufacturers
Examples include:
- Some Rock Island imports (non-1911 models)
- Jimenez / Bryco / Jennings style pistols
- Older or discontinued budget brands
- Lower buyer confidence
- Harder to price accurately
- Slower sales
Well-known brands consistently outperform these in resale.
4. Trend-Based Tactical Builds
Examples:
- AR pistols during demand spikes
- Pistol caliber carbines that were “hot” for a short time
- Over-accessorized tactical rifles
- Popularity fluctuates
- Oversupply happens quickly
- Demand drops when trends shift
What’s popular today may not be tomorrow.
5. Poor Condition Firearms
Examples include:
- Rusted hunting rifles
- Shotguns with worn finishes or cracked stocks
- Pistols with excessive wear or missing parts
- Visible wear lowers buyer confidence
- Repairs reduce value
- Original finish loss matters
Condition alone can reduce value by hundreds of dollars.
The Reality Most Buyers Miss
It’s not just the model—it’s the condition and timing.
Two identical firearms can have a significant price difference based on:
- Wear
- Original parts
- Current demand
How to Protect Your Gun’s Value
If you want your firearm to retain value:
- Keep it clean without over-restoring
- Avoid unnecessary modifications
- Retain the original box and paperwork
- Store it properly
- Pay attention to market trends
Final Thoughts
Some firearms are investments. Others are simply tools.
Understanding the difference can help you make better buying and selling decisions.
If you’re unsure what your firearm is worth, stop by Quick Draw Gun in Monett, Missouri for a real evaluation based on current market conditions.