Why Choose MDRF Enterprises for Firearm Appraisals

✔ AGI Certified Firearms Appraiser (Certification ID #1152547)
✔ USPAP Personal Property Standards compliant
✔ Licensed FFL and SOT dealer equipped to appraise NFA firearms
✔ Defensible, documented reports used in probate, IRS, and insurance proceedings
✔ Serving Saint Louis families and professionals for over 12 years

 

MDRF combines certified appraisal credentials with licensed acquisition authority, creating a complete solution for families and estate professionals who need both accurate valuation and legal transfer capability.

 

 

Our Appraisal Process

 

Initial Consultation

We determine the scope, purpose, and intended use of the appraisal.

On-Site or In-Shop Evaluation

Firearms are inspected, documented, and photographed by a certified appraiser.

PPGS Grading

Each firearm receives an objective condition rating supported by detailed photos.

Dual Valuation Model

• Fair Market Value (FMV): for IRS, insurance, or legal documentation
• Marketable Cash Value (MCV): current real-world sale value

Written Report Delivery

Reports are delivered as a secure PDF, including serials, notes, photos, and valuation detail.

 

​For a detailed comparison, see our Fair Market Value vs. Marketable Cash Value guide.

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Same-Day Estate Firearm Valuation (Rapid FMV and MCV Service)

Many families and professionals need answers quickly. When estates are on a deadline or a fiduciary must complete probate inventory fast, MDRF offers a rapid valuation option designed for speed, accuracy, and compliance.

 

Our Same-Day Estate Firearm Valuation provides:

• Immediate FMV and MCV values during the appointment
• On-site identification and documentation performed by an AGI Certified Firearms Appraiser
• No-transport appointments available anywhere in the Saint Louis metro area
• Written confirmation of values for probate planning, buyout decisions, or insurance discussions

 

This service is ideal when:

• An attorney or fiduciary needs values the same day
• A family wants to understand true market value before moving forward
• A buyout decision must be made quickly
• Firearms need to be cataloged without delay

 

Same day valuation still follows our standard professional process, including PPGS grading and dual FMV and MCV valuation. If a certified written appraisal is required, MDRF can complete the full report immediately or schedule the appointment to convert the rapid valuation into a USPAP-aligned written appraisal.

For families and professionals who wish to move forward with a legal sale, MDRF can also complete the purchase in the same visit under our FFL license with full documentation.

 

Dealer Appraisal vs. Online Valuation

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​Certified firearm appraisals provide legal defensibility and accurate market insight, while online tools only provide estimates. Accuracy matters when estates, attorneys, or the IRS are involved.

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Appraise and Sell Firearms; One Visit, One License

As a licensed FFL and Certified Firearms Appraiser, MDRF can appraise, document, and legally purchase firearms in one appointment.

 

This hybrid service helps:

• Families settling estates who want to complete all steps legally and efficiently
• Attorneys and fiduciaries who require documented chain-of-custody
• Collectors who prefer a private, compliant sale

 

You receive a certified appraisal report and, if desired, an immediate written offer. Every transaction is fully documented under federal guidelines.

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Download: Understanding Firearm Appraisal Percentages (PPGS System)

The Photo Percentage Grading System (PPGS) uses photographic examples to rate firearm condition by percentage rather than vague terms. Download our visual guide to learn how collectors and appraisers determine true value.

 

[Download the PPGS Condition Guide – Free PDF]

 

 

Transparent Pricing

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Standard Appraisal (Free)

• Method: Phone or email consultation

• Values Provided: Fair Market Value (FMV) and Marketable Cash Value (MCV)

• Documentation: None provided

• Inspection: No physical inspection; based on owner-provided details and photos

• Limit: Up to 3 firearms

 

Certified Written Appraisal — Per Firearm

• Price: $35 per firearm

• Method: Physical inspection by AGI certified appraiser

• Values Provided: FMV and MCV with supporting detail

• Documentation: Written report with photos (USPAP aligned, using PPGS)

• Uses: Estates, IRS, insurance, legal documentation

 

Certified Written Appraisal — Hourly

• Price: $55 per hour

• Method: Physical inspection by AGI-certified appraiser (on-site or in-office)

• Values Provided: FMV and MCV with supporting detail

• Documentation: Written report with photos (USPAP aligned, using PPGS)

• Best For: Large collections, estate liquidation projects, insurance inventories

 

All appraisals meet USPAP personal property standards and are conducted by an AGI Certified Firearms Appraiser.

 

 

In-Home Firearm Appraisals; We Come to You

Selling or appraising firearms doesn’t have to mean moving them. MDRF offers discreet, in-home firearm appraisals anywhere in the Saint Louis metro area and within 100 miles.

• Secure, professional handling for estates and collections
• No need to transport firearms yourself
• Available for both single items and large collections

 

Ideal for executors, fiduciaries, and families managing inherited firearms.

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Common Reasons for a Firearm Appraisal

• Estate and Probate – Court or beneficiary distribution.

​​Estate and Probate – Court or beneficiary distribution. Learn more in our Estate Firearms Guide or see how we work directly with estate attorneys.

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• Insurance Coverage – Replacement value documentation.

Insurance Coverage – Replacement value documentation. Review our Firearm FAQ on insurance and appraisals or contact our bank trust officer support team for institutional needs.

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• NFA Firearms in Estates

Suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and other items regulated under the National Firearms Act require special compliance and documentation. As a licensed SOT dealer, MDRF ensures these firearms are handled legally and appraised correctly.

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• IRS Reporting – Donations or taxable estates.

• Divorce and Asset Division

• Collection Management – Selling, downsizing, or investment tracking.

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Our Certifications

• American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI) – Certified Firearms Appraiser Certification ID: #1152547

• USPAP - Personal Property Standards

• PPGS Condition Grading (Blue Book of Gun Values, 42nd and 43rd Edition)

 

All appraisals meet USPAP personal property standards and are conducted by an AGI Certified Firearms Appraiser. As a licensed FFL and SOT dealer, we provide confidence that even NFA-regulated firearms are appraised and documented properly. If you are an attorney, fiduciary, or estate professional, visit our Professionals Resource Hub for additional guidance.​​

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Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Can I sell guns immediately after an appraisal?
Answer: Yes. MDRF can legally purchase firearms during the same appointment under our FFL license. All transfers are documented for estate and IRS compliance.

Question: Do your appraisals meet court or insurance standards?
Answer: Yes. Each report follows USPAP standards and includes serials, descriptions, photos, and FMV/MCV documentation.

Question: Do you appraise NFA or suppressor items?
Answer: Yes. As a licensed SOT dealer, MDRF appraises and transfers NFA firearms under ATF regulations.

Question: What is the PPGS grading system?
Answer: It’s a visual, percentage-based condition scale that standardizes firearm grading for accuracy and fairness.

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Book Your Appraisal

📞 Call (314) 397-0942
📧 Email

📍 Or visit us at: 6414A Hampton Ave, Suite #11, Saint Louis, MO 63109
 

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