Military Gun Collecting — GMP # 175

Published on March 24, 2023
Duration: 40:30

This episode of the Guns Magazine Podcast features an in-depth discussion with gun writer Will Dabs MD about his passion for collecting military firearms. Dabs explains his 'addiction' to military history, stemming from his childhood and military service as a helicopter pilot. He details the historical significance and personal connection he finds in firearms that have seen combat, highlighting his prized Japanese Type 99 paratrooper machine gun as an example of a tangible link to extraordinary historical events. The conversation also touches on the challenges and rewards of building such a collection in the modern era.

Quick Summary

Military firearms collecting offers a tangible connection to historical events and combat, providing a physical link to extraordinary times. Will Dabs MD's prized Japanese Type 99 paratrooper machine gun exemplifies this, linked to a specific 1944 battle. He sources vintage weapons from platforms like GunBroker and local auctions, with his ultimate goal being a rare Type 1 FG 42.

Chapters

  1. 00:03Introduction to Guns Magazine Podcast
  2. 00:30Sponsor: Four Patriots Power Sidekick
  3. 01:20Sponsor: IPAL USA
  4. 01:42Guest Introduction: Will Dabs MD
  5. 02:09Will Dabs MD on Military Gun Collecting
  6. 04:01The Nature of Addiction in Collecting
  7. 05:11Dabs' Broad and Shallow Collection
  8. 05:41Key to Success: Two Jobs and Little Sleep
  9. 07:06The Attraction of Military Firearms
  10. 08:16Tangible Connection to Remarkable Times
  11. 08:51SKS with Shrapnel from Vietnam Veteran
  12. 09:37Will Dabs' Military Service as Helicopter Pilot
  13. 11:21Most Prized Gun in the Collection
  14. 11:41Japanese Type 99 Paratrooper Machine Gun
  15. 13:33The Story of the Type 99 Capture
  16. 18:18The Holy Grail: Type 1 FG 42
  17. 20:00Oldest US Gun: Brown Bess Musket
  18. 20:371851 Colt Navy Revolver
  19. 21:07Remington 1858 Pistol Find
  20. 22:27Where to Find Vintage Weapons
  21. 23:09GunBroker and Local Auctions
  22. 24:43Example: Spanish Set with Hindsold Scope

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary appeal of collecting military firearms for Will Dabs MD?

Will Dabs MD finds the primary appeal of collecting military firearms in their ability to provide a tangible connection to historical events and combat. He views these weapons as physical links to extraordinary times and the experiences of those who used them, making history come alive.

What is Will Dabs MD's most prized firearm and why?

Will Dabs MD's most prized firearm is a Japanese Type 99 paratrooper machine gun. Its value stems from its unfired condition, its direct link to a specific combat event on Leyte in 1944, and the detailed, compelling story of its capture and subsequent transfer to him.

Where can collectors find vintage military firearms?

Collectors can find vintage military firearms through online platforms like GunBroker, which helps assess market value, and through smaller local auctions found on sites like BidToBuyGuns.com, often involving estate liquidations.

What is the 'Holy Grail' firearm for Will Dabs MD?

The 'Holy Grail' firearm for Will Dabs MD is a Type 1 FG 42. This rare German paratrooper rifle is highly sought after for its historical significance, particularly its association with the Grand Sasso raid, and its considerable market value.

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