Guns & ammo
Expert advice from Outdoor Canada’s firearms expert
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Uncovering the value of vintage shotgun shells, a Colt New Service .45, an L.C. Smith 20-gauge and a WWII-era rifle/shotgun combo
Whether you have a question about antique guns, modern firearms, ammunition or reloading, expert Dave Anderson is here with the answer. Please send your detailed questions and applicable, high-resolution photos to editorial@outdoorcanada.ca.
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I am always intrigued when reading these questions and answers. I have a full box of 12-gauge Imperial paper shotgun shells, and a full box of 12-gauge Canuck paper shells (above). Are they worth anything to a collector?
RONALD BECK
FORT FRANCES, ONTARIO
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Yes, those boxes of vintage shotshells are of interest to collectors. Cartridge collectors like full boxes, so yours would have extra appeal. There is also what I consider a surprising amount of demand for empty vintage cartridge boxes. I think this is because full boxes are not common, and partial boxes are less appealing. Also, anyone can buy or own an empty box, but you need a Possession and Acquisition Licence to buy or own live ammo. I wish I could provide an accurate estimate of the value of your boxes, but prices seem to vary widely. At the least, your full boxes should easily bring in $100 or more, though dealers in vintage ammo would have to pay less if they want to make a reasonable return on their investment. I do miss the smell of fired paper shotshells!
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