Which is Better for Selling Estate Firearms in Missouri: Auction House or Licensed Dealer?

When You're Stuck Between Two Options

When a loved one passes and you're suddenly in charge of their gun collection, it can feel overwhelming. One of the biggest questions we hear is:

"Should I use an auction house or go straight to a licensed dealer?"

The answer depends on your goals. Do you want maximum value or maximum peace of mind? Speed or exposure? Let’s break it down.

Licensed Dealer (FFL): Fast, Legal, and Discreet

If you’re looking for legal clarity, a quick payout, or want the guns handled safely and professionally, a licensed firearms dealer like MDRF Enterprises is often the better choice.

What We Offer:

• Pickup from homes, storage units, or estate properties

• Written appraisals for probate, insurance, or documentation

• Fair cash offers or consignment options with no hidden fees

• All ATF paperwork handled correctly and securely

• No storage, shipping, or auction costs

• Full liability protection for the estate and the person in charge

Best fit for: Executors, fiduciaries, and family members who want speed, compliance, and no lingering legal risk.

FFL Legal Paperwork

Auction Houses: Higher Value, Slower Process

Auction houses are often a good fit for high-end, collectible, or rare firearms. If the estate includes something truly special, like a pre-war Winchester, a factory-engraved Colt, or a limited-run custom build, you might see a bidding war. That said, the process is rarely quick or simple.

Pros:

• Broad exposure to collectors and niche buyers

• Competitive bidding for rare or historic items

• Some support with listing and photography

Cons:

• 10 to 20 percent commission fees (plus possible shipping and transfer charges)

• Delays of 30 to 90 days before payment

• No guarantee your item will sell

• Legal responsibility stays with you until the firearm is officially transferred

Best fit for: Collectors, fiduciaries, or heirs with time to wait and firearms that appeal to niche buyers.

Auction Gavel

Real-World Comparison: A $2,000 Handgun

Let’s say the estate includes a well-maintained Colt 1911 with a fair market value of $2,000.

Understand firearm value vs. marketability: Blog "What's My Gun Really Worth"

Option	Timeline	Estimated Net Payout	Extra Costs
Auction House	30 to 60 days	Around $1,600	Commission, transfer, shipping
FFL Dealer	24 to 48 hours	Around $1,400	None

Yes, an auction might result in slightly more money, but you wait longer, pay more in fees, and remain responsible for the firearm until it is fully transferred. With MDRF, the process is complete in a couple of days. You get paid, and the legal trail is closed.

For a clear, documented starting point before selling, see our firearm appraisal services on the Appraisals page.

Why So Many Professionals Choose MDRF

We’ve worked with estate attorneys, trust officers, and professional liquidators across Missouri. Many come to us after an auction fell through or when a collection sat in limbo without clear documentation.

"Many of these cases start when firearms are unexpectedly found in storage units or unoccupied homes."

They call MDRF when they need the job done right and done fast.

We don’t just buy guns. We close the loop legally, professionally, and with full transparency.

Bottom Line: What’s Right for You?

Goal	Best Option
Legal protection and a clean paper trail	✅ Licensed FFL Dealer
Maximum value for rare or collectible firearms	✅ Auction House
Unsure or dealing with both types?	📞 Call MDRF. We will walk you through it

Ready to Make the Right Call?

Whether you're managing an estate, assisting a client, or downsizing your own collection, we’ll help you evaluate the best path forward. Our process is legal, fast, and built for real-world situations.

📍 Visit us: 6414A Hampton Ave, Suite #11, Saint Louis, MO 63109

📞 Call: (314) 397-0942

📩 Email: drew@mdrfenterprises.com

👉Learn more about firearm transfers in our Professionals FAQ or Estate Firearms Guide.