Thread: Ted Rogers Auction

I love gun auctions
Have brought a bit from Ted's over the years
Plenty from antique arms auctions also.

But I think the days of auctions are nearly numbered.
I have seen the quality of the lot descriptions fall
With some firearms unable to be opened recently the state of the bore is totally unknown

This might give a buyer a bargain or a lemon
It most certainly does not get the vendor the best price on the day

But the written description is the key thing because not Everyone can spend a weekend in Wellington at an auction

I have had forum members view lots at auctions for me and advised they are not consistent with the description

I have looked at rifles for friends brought at auction and read the description that encourages them to buy at the price they paid. It was not obvious it was even the same rifle !

I'm not knocking Ted's dedication and effort but things have slipped lately and will likely continue to slip with all the effort and hassles involved in running a firearms auction.
I commend those people who continue to keep these events alive.
And lament their passing

As an example this is from Ted's next auction catalogue and is a rifle type I know a little about

".375 H&H Mag. Calibre Ruger No.1 Single Shot
Drop Block Sporting Rifle. 24˝ heavy round tapered
barrel with Sturm Ruger’s name, address etc. Ramped
foresight. Adjustable flip up open rear sight. Receiver
crown marked “Ruger No.1”. Bore good. Metalwork
with approximately 90% finish. Quality walnut
woodwork. Chequered at forewood and pistol grip.
“Ruger” rubber butt pad. Leather sling. S/N 132-
98824. Safety catch at fault otherwise G+WO&C.
Comes with 18 x 375 H&H cases and a set of
Hornady 375 H&H mag. Dies. Estimate $350 – $450""

Can anyone see the obvious problem with the description and price estimate on this quite desirable and popular ( cult following ) rifle ?

And no I am not interested in bidding on it unless it's $450 because there's 2k left on the bone at that price