I have noticed that most gun purchases and sales/trades have been for substantially over the price suggested by Blue Book of Gun Values, and I would like your opinion as to why, if any?  Thanks.

Hmm - in my experience, nothing ever sold for a premium over what the blue book listed for value unless it was something that was 'very hot', usually new products, but I really wouldn't count those examples.

This from working retail at an FFL for a couple of years.

TR

Quoted: Hmm - in my experience, nothing ever sold for a premium over what the blue book listed for value unless it was something that was 'very hot', usually new products, but I really wouldn't count those examples. This from working retail at an FFL for a couple of years. TR

I was pricing Colt Delta Elite's book values $650 but were selling for $850+, and Beretta Cheetah 86fs booked at $450 selling for $699!  

When I sell a gun, I go by the most recent book value and personal grading with the book as a guide.   I think it is sound business principle to adhere to in order to have a good business reputation as a "fair and reasonable" seller.  It increases volume and pays off long and short runs, rather than a seller who knows he/she can get more than book value for a gun bc of its popularity - you are left with an unhappy buyer when the calm sets in.

I have paid over book value for a gun that I really wanted and I don't complain that the seller was gouging or whatever bc fair market value means what a willing buyer will pay a willing seller.  Nobody had the gun to my head.

Just so we can be clear - were the two examples you used bought via auction or from normal dealer stock?

It might be just a case of the BB not accurately showing market conditions; that would surprise me when you consider the lead time on such a book.

TR

Quoted: Just so we can be clear - were the two examples you used bought via auction or from normal dealer stock? It might be just a case of the BB not accurately showing market conditions; that would surprise me when you consider the lead time on such a book. TR

No auctions.  The Beretta was stock and the Colts averaged that price from dealers and other sellers.

Blue book values are only guidelines. After all, you have different markets around the country which need to be taken into consideration. I'm still trying to get an answer as to how they come up with a specific value in the first place. Location, demand and availability certainly play a major part.
                                            My .02
                                        Ron