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Does Quality Actually Trump Utility?

2K views 10 replies 11 participants last post by  Unknown1 
#1 ·
Here's a synopsis of a conversation I had last evening at St. Charles (in Elburn).

Mike and I were discussing shotguns (what else?) and how we'd like this one or that, but that the prices were just out of reach. I described how I shot some really nice guns at The Grand last summer. The sellers are very generous with loaners, shells, and free time on the practice field. I made the rounds and burned up almost 200 rounds "on the house" so to speak. Then, I didn't buy anything.

Mike mentioned that there was "just something" about owning and shooting one of the higher end gun that was difficult to describe. However, he suggested it was similar to driving a newly polished car versus when it was dirty. Same car. Same everything, except the dirt and polish. Another example that came to mind was how it feels to dress up in a tuxedo for a special occasion (same applies to fancy dresses - don't want to sleight the dress wearers). Still the same old dude under the clothes, but there is a feeling of importance or elegance that comes from the experience - the "clothes make the man", so to speak.

I think Mike was on to something. Yes, from a strictly economic standpoint, paying a lot for fancy wood, gold, engraving, and a top end case is irrational. But, from the perspective of the overall psyche, owning and shooting a FINE piece of hardware is an experience, an overall feeling that clearly trumps the economics.

I shot a Kolar, a Krieghoff, a Perazzi, and a Browning at the Grand. I returned twice to the Kolar "store" and talked. Of course, there was a deal and I walked away from it - mentally kicking myself on the drive home. I couldn't bring myself to make that kind of investment for a gun that was just a fancier version of ones that sold for a fifth of the price. I haven't forgotten the experience and I sometimes have beat myself up over the desire to own and shoot one of those beauties - making it mine and not just something I borrowed. Why, I'd ask myself in those dreaming moments.

After talking to Mike I have a better understanding of a nuanced topic. Therefore, it's true (at least for me). Quality often trumps mere utility. If that wasn't actually the case, I'd be content settling for things that just get the job done. There'd be no fancy backyard grilling stations, no Corvettes, no Rolex watches, and no top end firearms.

Now, what will I DO about all this?

Stepping down from the soapbox, I remain...

Larry Frieders |
Grandpa's Arms, Inc. |
http://www.grandpasarms.com |
340 Marshall Ave #100 | Aurora, IL 60506 |
Monday through Friday, 9am to 5pm |
Office: 630.859.0333 Cell: 630.992.7513 FAX: 630.859.0114
 
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#2 ·
As with all of those luxuries mentioned, it is mostly about status. Otherwise we would all be shooting Citori's, Model 12's, and 1100's. Not nessecarily these models, but those type of guns in those price ranges. It is all about how it makes us feel, and boosts confidence, unitl the polish wears off, and the dirt appears because the mental affect wears off. LOL
 
#5 ·
To me, a high end gun must be "earned". That means I shoot and enjoy that style of shooting often enough, and get to the point I can justify the potential to gain a few points to warrent the investment. That said, if your bills are paid,the family wants for nothing and you can find a decent deal, Then it's not hard to justify. My gun collection has gained value faster than my 401K and it's allot easier to liquidate should I have the need. i.s Just because you buy it, doesn't mean your married to it forever.
Shoot what you like and like what you shoot!
 
#9 ·
short answer is no, long answer is yes. everyone is different and no two people look down the gun the same. Sometimes there are things that work better than others. Over time quality will remain and might go up in value. That Mossberg 500 isn't likely to appreciate much and they aren't built to shoot 20,000 rounds a year.
 
#11 ·
If you'd ever driven a Ferrari the way it can be driven, you wouldn't even bother asking that question!

But then the question needs to be asked: would you own a Ferrari knowing that it's major hassle to get into and out of, rides like a go-kart ("buck board" for the senior vets), it difficult to see out of at what's around you and absolutely hates city traffic?

Keller
 
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