Questions about 71 win

[338]

I have been looking at a couple of 71 win. for light use and collecter value. 1 is a 92% short tang (post 41) rifle for $1350 the other is a Long tang carbine that has been redone and is in nice shape but has been drilled and tapped then filled in before it was redone, It also has the original stock that no longer matches the finish, The stock that is on it was cut then a recoil pad added. The owner was askig $3500 but come down to $2750. My question is which one is the better deal? There were only 161 carbines made but with it being done over and drilled and tapped is it still more desirable? ..Thanks

[Goodguy]

Why not consult "The Blue Book of Gun Values and/or contact The Winchester Collector's Club;
http://www.winchestercollector.org/

I'm no expert on the 71 although I have other pre-64's and for my money if a rifle has been altered in any way it seriously adversely affects its collector value. Further as rare as the 71 may be there'll always be another. Inform yourself fully as to values of the various production models so that when the right gun comes along you'll know what it's worth to you and it's then easy to decide whether or not to make the offer. A collector piece is a personal thing and should be acquired because you want it and are able to place your $$ value on it. It's not what a collector piece is said to be worth that establishes the selling price, it's how much the buyer is willing to pay for it. Don't impuse buy. Sometimes a piece may be so rare that even if altered it is highly desirable - this is a rare exception. gg