Very early 10-22

[bearskinner]

I have the original 4 digit serial number 10-22 rifle that I learned to shoot, and my son learned to shoot. It's totally original with all the pieces. I've been told there's too much value to keep using it. It wouldn't kill me to put it aside, as I have another and a charger also. Is a 1960's original 10-22 worth not taking out and shooting? Probably doesn't matter but serial # is 39XX

 

[wwb]

Serial number is low enough to be "interesting", but not low enough to demand high dollars as a super collectible. That said, as long as you take care of it, shoot the bejeezuz out of it.... it's already been shot, so it's not "unfired", and you will never wear it out by shooting it. As long as you don't do anything to degrade the condition, you won't hurt the value.

 

[Precision32]

+1 As noted, it's not NIB so continue to enjoy your rifle.

 

[bearskinner]

Oh yeah, it's far from new, although it's still in very good shape, it's had 10,000 rounds thru it. Was my sons favorite rabbit gun, and has taken at least a hundred. That's actually good news, I didn't want to park it in the safe and have to buy another one. I'll make sure to use it with my grandson, and tell him about when my dad taught me to shoot back in the 60's

 

[hittman]

I agree with the advice above ...... my 5 digit "like new" 10/22 with the walnut finger-groove Sporter stock is a fine shooter. I'm just a tad more careful with it at the range than with the others.

 

[mohavesam]

I'll take a guess unseen - $250. It is always worth more to you and your son than some bargain-sniffing "collector" - unless it is indistinguishable from new, etc.
The low s/n is interesting but doesn't carry museum value alone.
Shoot it, try not to damage it and keep it in top condition inside and out.