Heres the situation, I can afford a m16 conversion (15-17k) now, and have my first NFA item, or i can hold out for another 15k and get the Colt A2 or US Property marked m16a1 that I really want. It will take me about 6-10 more months to get all of the funds for the colt. Now, im a collector first and a shooter second so if i go the conversion route it will get replaced. Im just wondering if we will see a price increase within this time frame that would warrant getting the conversion for the appreciation aspect. And im sure i could purchase from a reputable dealer and then trade up later for another model they have in stock, but im not sure how much they rip you off when you go to resell it. What do you guys think?

If you are a collector go colt but look for a deal - don't think you'll need to shell out another  15k. I've seen them from 20-25k

If you want the colt and you can have the funds in under a year do that. Remember it takes 6+ months just to get your form 4 approval, by time you got the rifle you would turn around and sell it, and that's assuming you get a good price for it and to do so you would have to sell it your self and you may have to pass up a good deal on a colt because you don't have he cash ready in hand. As they say cash is king. If i were in you're situation I would save and keep actively looking for good deals on colts.

I am not disputing your statement at all, but I am curious where/when you have seen Colt M16A2 or US Property marked M16A1 for 20-25K?  Thanks.

If you are a collector first and a shooter second and you really want an A2 or Prop marked gun that is less than a year just get what you want.  

I wouldn't screw around with a transfer inbound and then outbound with a 365 day time period just for the potential appreciation aspect.  You are going to lose $400 on the transfer fees alone, plus dealer fees, and shipping something that costs $15K or more is going to be at least another $100 each way by the time you factor in insurance. Say conservatively you are throwing $600 out the door for something you don't really want.

This is coming from somebody who is a shooter and doesn't have any interest in a Colt museum-style piece.

Reuben has a few M16A1's 23,995, 25,995 and he is usually few thouaand above market. Not us property marked though and not brand new but in good shape. Not sure what you are looking for exactly?

All good place to look for deals on MGs

http://www.sturmgewehr.com
http://www.shootersdepot.com
http://www.atfmachinegun.com
http://www.autoweapons.com
http://www.impactguns.com
http://www.subguns.com
http://www.onlythebestfirearms.com
http://www.davidspiwak.com
http://dealernfa.com
http://www.gunbroker.com
http://www.nfasales.com
http://www.classiiidealers.com/
http://www.machinegunpriceguide.com/