Pre Ban AR - what's the value?

[TN Song Dog]

Is there anything special about a pre Ban bushmaster, or any reason not to have it out and getting use of it? My friend has one that he is worried it might devalue it. I can't find a source that says if it's special enough not to get some use of it. Any advice is appreciated.

[KahrMan]

Not here but they do bring higher money in certain states that have AR restrictions. 

[Oh Shoot]

One just sold here for $1250. Or less.

 

- OS

[Oh Shoot]

2 hours ago, KahrMan said:

Not here but they do bring higher money in certain states that have AR restrictions. 

Could be wrong but AFAIK age doesn't matter any more in any of the assault weapon banned states.

- OS

[TN Song Dog]

Thanks for replies here, and please keep them coming if there's anything else to consider. Thanks

[Fourtyfive]

AR's are at Rock Bottom prices now. Personally I would just shoot it. I have a pre ban Colt with bayo lug and still shoot it some. They are only worth what someone is willing to pay, and some new ones are in the $400's now, less if you want to build it. Just my 

[TN Song Dog]

Solid avice, and I'll pass it along. Thanks everyone

[RED333]

It is for sure a buyers market now on the AR platform.

[rbishop]

Pre-ban Colts still have a decent market value.  Name and tradition don't mean a hill of beans to some, but some people appreciate the heritage of Colt firearms and are willing to pay a little extra. And they are quality weapons despite what some may say.  Just my opinion.

[Old Mitch]

For quite a few years if you wanted an AR, you had 2 choices:  Buy a Colt or build one from surplus parts on a lower receiver made by Essential Arms and a couple of other companies.

So YES, some Colts are very collectible and should be well maintained and not modified.  But I doubt firing one occasionally will hurt much. 

As for older Bushmasters, IF you find the right buyer you might get a premium for it.  So maybe it's worthwhile to keep it like new, but I myself would still shoot it.