Help, first time trading a gun.

[cfolsom]

Thinking about trading my LCP for a KP91DC. LGS wants $325 for the used P91. It comes with plastic box and 2 of the 11 round metal footed magazines.

Having never traded with a dealer for a gun, what is a realistic trade?

I expect to have to add cash with my LCP, but don't know how much. I know it will have a lot to do with how much he has into the P91.

What do dealer's expect to make on a used gun?

Thanks in advance for the help.

 

[Cheesewhiz]

They typically give about half the gun's current worth in a trade on anything that is a common piece. Some guys may give as much as 70% if it's one that can be turned around quickly. I don't think $325 is a great price on a P91, unless the gun was almost a "like new".

P89's and P90's, which have the best reps of the P series; command about $350 at any LGS in my area for one in really good almost new shape.

 

[GKC]

If your gun has been fired, is used, and/or doesn't have all the initial "stuff" (box, papers, test fired shell, etc) you might be better off selling it yourself. Since the gun shop will want to make a profit, they won't offer you as much as they think they can get selling it retail. In fact, maybe significantly less, depending on the gun/model, the shop itself, etc.

I've traded a lot of guns, but they were guns that I bought new, never fired, and had the box, all accessories, paperwork, etc. In these cases, the shops I deal with (and I do deal with them a lot) have given me close to what I paid for them, and in a few cases, more than what I paid, depending on the specific gun - if it was a hot item at the moment - and what I was trading it in on.) I've sold outright guns that I've used, or don't have all the stuff for, since I found that I made out better that way. I have traded used guns a few times, when I was in a hurry for something specific and didn't want to take the time to sell something to raise the cash, but I didn't get as much as I could have by selling it outright. There is a price to pay for being impatient! :lol:

One benefit about trading a gun in at a gun shop, though, is that you know it will go on their books, and you won't have to worry about keeping records in case of a later inquiry. Many people feel differently about this issue, and it may be or may not be a concern for you.

 

[roylt]

If the 91 has the metal foot mags it is early production. I think the price is good. Where are you located? If you could get the 91 for 300 otd it would be a steal. I agree to sell your gun and buy the 91. I wouldn't wait too long the 91 won't last at that price.

 

[cfolsom]

Thanks for the advice. My LCP has been fired and I do not have the original box and items. It was a gift to me. I do have 2 holsters and an extra mag that will go with it.

The main reasons for me thinking about the P91 are: Everyone raves about how much they like the P Series, thought it would be nice to get one. I do not have a 40 cal in the collection yet, and it's ammo is the most available in my area.

To answer roylt's question, I am in the western mountains of Maine.

I figured if the deal worked out to LCP + $75 for an OTD deal, it would be decent. Is that a reasonable expectation?

 

[roylt]

You can get a brand new lcp for under 350. So if you get 250 for your gun that would be a deal.

 

[GKC]

I figured if the deal worked out to LCP + $75 for an OTD deal, it would be decent. Is that a reasonable expectation?

IMO, that would be a good deal. Plus, you won't have to deal with the hassle of selling your gun. If you were having to put more cash in with the trade, it would be worth it to try to sell yours outright rather than trade, but if you can trade for $75 OTD, then you've done well.

 

[lexfire526]

I always make the comparison in gun-trading that its practically the same as vehicle-trading at dealerships: dealerships will always be less than an outright private party sell.

 

[wildcatter]

I personally don't trade with dealers. Over the years I have found it is much cheaper to buy straight out, and if I need to sell a firearm, I will fair far better selling it myself. Most dealers will come off their asking price a little on a cash OTD deal, but will stay fixed on their if trading and try and give you less than you can actually get out of yours. good luck however you decide to continue with the deal.

 

[CLMA60]

I've tried trading a couple of times but ended up selling outright or put on consignment with a dealer. Those I have sold outright have gone to very close friends who I know very well and we created our own transfer paper work and bill of sale.

 

[Buckeye!]

I'd buy the the P91 straight out...or if you don't have the funds ..tie it up with a layaway ...then sell your LCP..and pick up your 91...
I've had done that in the past ....

P91's are hens teeth in these parts..and they are priced a little higher than a P90 or P89...