What should this rifle go for?

[JRWhit]

I went to an auction yesterday and had my eye set on a Browning A-bolt Gold Medallion w/ boss system chambered 22-250, no scope.

This rifle got little attention from proxy bid only getting a $225 offer. I looked it over and was left with the impression that a coin toss could determine rather the throat was shot out of it or not. The stock showed clear signs of a life of use with a few chips and scratches. I set my top dollar at $350, maybe $400. The finish on metal parts were about 80%, the stock was more like 50%.
Was I in the right ballpark or was I thinking to low?,too high?
My thoughts were that it may have to be re-barreled.

I'd like to know for future reference. This particular rifle actual ended up bringing $725 which blew my mind. I don't think the buyer got a good look at it.

 

[Sav .250]

Kind of a mute point now but I`d say, in a bidding auction, want and need control what items go for.

Might give GunBroker a look-see. They may have some listed. Maybe. Get an idea what folks are willing to pay for one.

 

[JRWhit]

Kind of a mute point now

Yeah I know, but I figure if I can learn anything about it I'll be better prepared for the next one. It's hard to learn anything when the buyer paid more than what one cost new.

 

[joem1945]

Sometimes people at auctions go a little nuts with bidding. I saw a .303 brit with no mag go for $425.00. Kid was real proud but when we asked what he would do about a magazine he had a dumb look on his face.

 

[CB900F]

JRWhit;

The Brownings have a reputation as being difficult to re-barrel. Browning uses some type of thread lock to literally cement the threads of the barrel into the receiver. You quite likely didn't miss a thing by not taking the gun even if it'd gone at your budget point.

900F

 

[Sunray]

Auctions are daft places no matter what is being sold. The auctioneers job is to get the highest price for his client.
A $225 offer might be from a dealer who base values on the wholesale price. Your $350/$400 is a retail value. Might be a bunch light too. There was a scoped .22-250 'Hunter' that went for $686 in Sept of '13.
Makes a difference what A-bolt Gold Medallion it is too.