Downsizing: Mossberg Shotguns and a Knight Black Powder Rifle Find a New Home When families in Saint Louis face major life transitions, firearms are often part of the conversation. That was the case for one Brentwood family this week. Their father was moving into assisted living, and while some items were earmarked for children and grandchildren, the firearms presented a different challenge. The daughter, not interested in keeping the guns, turned to Google. She searched for “best place to sell guns in Saint Louis”  and came across MDRF Enterprises, first in a Reddit thread and then in the search results. Within a day, she was at our shop with her father’s collection. The Firearms Brought In This particular collection included three Mossberg shotguns and one black powder rifle: Mossberg 835 Mossberg 9200 Mossberg 500 Knight .45 caliber black powder rifle Each firearm was carefully inspected and appraised using certified standards. The Process Our approach was simple: Fair Appraisal  — Each firearm was evaluated for condition, market value, and resale demand. Cash Offer  — The daughter received an on-the-spot cash offer, backed by documentation. Legal Transfer  — Every firearm was logged into our Acquisition & Disposition records, ensuring full ATF compliance. The family appreciated that the process was discreet, professional, and respectful. Most importantly, the daughter left knowing the firearms were handled legally and responsibly. Mossberg 835, 9200, 500, and a Knight .45 black powder rifle from a Brentwood downsizing. MDRF Enterprises provided a fair appraisal, cash offer, and ATF-compliant transfer in Saint Louis.

Estate Executor Relies on MDRF for Browning Citori 525 Transfer Today we assisted an estate executor in Clayton who needed help with a family heirloom: a beautiful Browning Citori 525 20-gauge over-under shotgun , presented in a hard-sided leather-wrapped case. The executor needed a formal appraisal  both for insurance purposes and as part of the estate inventory. Once that was complete, their responsibility was to ensure the firearm made its way safely and legally to an heir living in North Dakota . That’s where MDRF Enterprises stepped in. We provided a certified appraisal  backed by AGI training and USPAP compliance standards, then handled every step of the transfer. From secure boxing and packaging  to arranging licensed shipment to an FFL in North Dakota , we made sure the heir could receive the shotgun properly documented and in full compliance with federal law. Executors and families often find firearms to be the most complicated part of settling an estate. With MDRF, everything stays licensed, discreet, and legally correct . Browning Citori 525 20 Gauge

Recently, MDRF Enterprises was called into an estate in Ladue to conduct a certified firearm appraisal. The centerpiece was a Holland & Holland Royal Sidelock Ejector , with serial records placing it between 1893 and 1896 , a rare and highly collectible shotgun from one of the world’s most respected London makers. The executor faced a difficult challenge: while the heirs agreed the shotgun was special, there was disagreement over its true  value. Without a professional appraisal, there was risk of uneven distribution of assets and conflict among family members. As certified firearm appraisers (AGI/USPAP), we performed an on-site, in-house appraisal  in the presence of the executor. This ensured complete transparency and gave all parties confidence in the process. Our appraisal established a fair market value supported by documentation, photographs, and recognized grading standards. By providing a formal, defensible appraisal , we helped the estate move forward with equitable distribution. Instead of relying on guesswork or internet estimates, the heirs had a professional valuation they could trust, preventing further disputes and ensuring the shotgun was properly represented in the estate. Holland & Holland Royal Sidelock Ejector Holland & Holland Royal Sidelock Ejector Holland & Holland Royal Sidelock Ejector

MDRF Enterprises is proud to announce a major update in our professional credentials. After more than a decade serving Saint Louis families and estate professionals with licensed firearm transfers and certified appraisals, we are now a licensed Special Occupational Taxpayer (SOT) with authority to handle National Firearms Act (NFA) firearms. MDRF SOT This new designation allows us to assist with regulated NFA items that often create confusion in estates and collections. These include suppressors, short barreled rifles, short barreled shotguns, and other firearms that require additional ATF oversight. For estate attorneys, fiduciaries, and families, this approval means that one trusted partner can now handle both standard sporting arms and NFA firearms within the same estate. What was once a complex gray area for executors or liquidators can now be addressed with clarity, documentation, and full compliance. Every service at MDRF Enterprises is designed to reduce uncertainty and risk. By adding licensed SOT capabilities for NFA firearms, we provide additional assurance that all firearms discovered in estates, trusts, or collections will be managed correctly and legally. MDRF Enterprises has built its reputation on discretion, professionalism, and compliance. The addition of SOT licensure for NFA firearms reflects our continued investment in the highest professional standards to protect clients and the community. If you are an attorney, fiduciary, or family member facing questions about suppressors, short barreled rifles, or other NFA firearms, we invite you to connect with us. MDRF Enterprises will bring the same careful approach that has guided our work in Saint Louis for more than twelve years, now with expanded coverage for every category of firearm.

Shotgun & Rifle Insurance Appraisal in Webster Groves When families in Webster Groves think about protecting their valuables, firearms are often part of the conversation. Recently, MDRF Enterprises was asked to perform a formal insurance appraisal on a collection of five shotguns a unique Winchester Model 36 and a classic rimfire rifle. The collection included: Two Browning Superposed over/unders in 12 gauge and 20 gauge Three Winchester Model 12 pump shotguns (two in 16 gauge, one in 12 gauge) One Winchester Model 36 One Ruger 10/22 Stainless Each firearm was carefully inspected, graded, and documented using the Photo Percentage Grading System (PPGS)  — the same system featured in the Blue Book of Gun Values. Every appraisal comes with a custom thumb drive containing the full PDF report and all supporting images , making it easy for families and insurance providers to keep records safe and accessible. For many families in established neighborhoods like Webster Groves, appraisals are about more than resale value; they’re about ensuring treasured firearms are properly recorded, covered, and preserved for the future. At MDRF Enterprises, we don’t just buy collections, we also provide certified appraisals recognized by insurers and estate professionals across the Greater Saint Louis area. Winchester Model 36 Winchester Model 12 - 16 GA Winchester Model 12 - 12 GA Browning Superposed - 12 GA Ruger 10/22 Stainless Winchester Model 12 - 16GA Browning Superposed - 20 GA

From Arizona to Missouri: A Simple, Legal Solution for an Executor When an uncle in South County passed away, his nephew in Arizona was named executor of the estate. There was no itemized will, but three handguns were found among his uncle’s belongings: Smith & Wesson M&P 40 Shield with Crimson Trace Laser Glock 19 Gen 5 Tisas 1911A1 The nephew had no interest in keeping the firearms and wanted to ensure they were handled safely and legally. After finding MDRF Enterprises online, he scheduled a visit while he was in town. We inspected the firearms, confirmed lawful transfer requirements, and provided a fair market cash offer on the spot. No auctions, no consignment delays, and no legal uncertainty. Just a straightforward process that gave the executor peace of mind before returning home to Arizona. 📍 View our Interactive Map of St. Louis Firearm Stories Oakville estate firearm collection of handguns appraised and transferred legally in South County. Glock 19 Gen 5 Tisas M1911 A1 Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 40

Understanding Price vs. Value in the Real World Every week, we hear the same thing from private sellers: “I paid $1,200 for this, and it’s still in perfect condition, I saw it listed on GunBroker for $2,000, why are you offering less?” We get it. Firearms aren’t just objects, they’re investments, heirlooms, and sometimes even symbols of trust. But when it comes time to actually selling a gun , many sellers confuse what it cost  with what it’s worth  in today’s market. This post breaks down the difference between Fair Market Value (FMV)  and Marketable Cash Value (MCV) , and explains why you may be offered less than you expect (and why that’s not a scam). Colt Python .357 Magnum Fair Market Value vs. Marketable Cash Value: A Quick Primer Before we talk about emotion, let’s talk about math. At MDRF Enterprises, we calculate Fair Market Value  by averaging: Recent GunBroker.com listings with active bids Paid for, At Auction, Realize Price sales data Plus, model-specific market demand and condition That gives us the price a gun is realistically selling for , not just what someone listed it at. But most private sellers aren’t using those tools. They’re basing expectations on: Their original purchase price (often full retail, new in box) A few high-priced GunBroker listings (with no bids ) Rumors or outdated appraisals Let’s break that down. Common Pricing Myths We Hear 1. “I paid $X, so it’s worth $X.” Once you buy a gun, especially new in box, it immediately becomes used . Like a car driven off the lot, it loses retail value the moment it leaves the case. Even if it’s “barely shot,” it’s still: Missing warranty protection Potentially missing original box/papers No longer legally NIB (New in Box) Used condition = used value. 2. “It’s listed for $Y on GunBroker.” There’s a huge difference between: Asking price , and Selling price We see this all the time: a Colt Python listed at $3,000 but no bids , 9 re-listings in a row. GunBroker is like eBay, it reflects what sellers hope to get , not always what they receive. That's why we only consider closed listings with bids  in our FMV estimates. 3. “You’re lowballing me.” No, we’re giving you the Marketable Cash Value : the realistic amount a seller walks away with after fees, delays, and friction. Platforms like GunBroker or auction houses often charge 10–15% in fees . Factor in the time it takes to photograph, list, answer questions, and ship, and the buyer still wants a deal. MDRF offers a streamlined alternative: We calculate FMV, subtract 30% to reflect real-world liquidity , and provide a fair, no-hassle cash offer . No auctions. No wait. And here’s something most sellers don’t realize: as a licensed dealer, we can often purchase current-production firearms  from our wholesalers at 30–40% less  than the retail price they originally paid. That’s not a reflection of the gun’s quality, it’s just how margins and manufacturer pricing work in the industry. Infographic: FMV vs. MCV – What’s the Real Difference? Title: "Understanding Firearm Value: FMV vs. Marketable Cash Value" FMV vs MCV This visual lays out: How FMV is calculated using market data How MCV reflects what sellers actually receive Why MDRF applies a consistent, transparent 30% discount (not arbitrary lowballing) Real examples with typical firearms At MDRF Enterprises, every certified firearm appraisal  includes both Fair Market Value and Marketable Cash Value, giving you a realistic view of what a firearm is worth today. If you’re handling probate or trust administration, see how we work directly with estate attorneys to provide court-ready documentation. Real-World Example Let’s say you have a Smith & Wesson 686 , lightly used, with a few handling marks. You paid $950  new at retail. Current FMV (based on GunBroker + At Auction Service) is $775–$825 . MDRF would offer around $550–$575 in cash , based on MCV. You skip the 3-week auction wait, the 15% fees, the no-show buyers, and the legal liability. Learn more about our certified firearm appraisal process  and how we determine value accurately on our Appraisals page. Who This Helps Heirs  who need a quick, fair valuation during probate Collectors  looking to offload duplicates or thin their safes Executors or liquidators  who don’t want to mess with shipping and background checks "If you’re handling the entire cleanout process, check out our Estate Firearm Checklist ." "Read more on executor responsibilities for firearms in Missouri ." We’re not here to haggle, we’re here to provide clarity  and help you move forward confidently. "And if you're not sure about your legal role, see our post on whether executors or liquidators need a license. " If you’re an estate attorney , fiduciary, or trust officer , explore our dedicated resources for professionals to assist your clients with confidence and compliance. Bottom Line: Don’t Fall for Listing Price Illusions Gun value isn’t about what you paid, or what someone wants  on GunBroker, it’s about what someone will actually pay you today , minus all the red tape. At MDRF Enterprises, we: Give you both FMV and MCV Base our numbers on real comps, not guesswork Work on a flat, transparent margin Help you comply with state and federal law No pressure. No surprises. Just clear options from a licensed professional who values your time and your firearm. Planning to transfer a firearm out of state or through an estate? Be sure to review our blog on shipping a gun if you’re not a licensed dealer to avoid common legal pitfalls. Want to Know What Yours is Worth? Request a Firearm Valuation Read our Guide: How to Appraise, Downsize, or Sell a Firearm Collection in the Saint Louis Area Visit our FAQ: Firearms and Unlicensed Persons For a deeper understanding of how to manage inherited firearms, download our Estate Firearms Guide . It’s designed for heirs, attorneys, and anyone navigating legal firearm transfers. By: Drew Gun Buyer | St. Louis, MO | MDRF Enterprises https://www.mdrfenterprises.com

Why It Matters When Selling or Appraising Firearms in Missouri When firearms appear in an estate, most people think of two questions right away: Are they safe? and What are they worth? The first is about safety and compliance. The second is about accuracy and fairness, and that is where a certified firearm appraisal becomes more than just a formality. At MDRF Enterprises, our appraisal process is built for courtrooms, probate filings, insurance claims, and professional due diligence. It is not a quick guess based on internet listings or an informal “off the cuff” valuation. Our appraisals meet professional standards and provide documentation that stands up to legal and financial scrutiny. For an overview of the laws that apply in these situations, see our Missouri firearm laws and compliance guide . Smith & Wesson Model 41 and Paperwork What Counts as Proper Firearm Documentation in Missouri In Missouri, there is no firearm registration system for most guns, but that does not mean documentation is optional. For estates, private sales, and transfers, the right paperwork protects you from delays, disputes, and legal issues. A complete firearm documentation set may include: Formal Appraisal Report  – Prepared by a certified appraiser, detailing make, model, caliber, serial number, condition (PPGS grading), and current market value. Bill of Sale  – Legally records the transfer between parties. ATF Transfer Records  – Required when transferring through a licensed dealer or for certain regulated firearms. Probate Court Inventory  – Lists assets for estate settlement, including firearms. Insurance Schedule  – Documents firearms covered by a policy, with values supported by an appraisal. Without these, you may face challenges with probate court, insurance claims, or proving ownership. Missouri-Specific Rules for Firearm Appraisals in Estates While Missouri law does not require a special permit to own most firearms, estates that include guns are still subject to probate requirements. This means: Firearms must be listed in the estate inventory for court approval. The executor must ensure all transfers follow Missouri gun transfer laws for estates . If the firearm is regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA) , additional federal forms are required. A professional appraisal is not only helpful for settling disputes among heirs, it also satisfies court expectations for accurate valuation. If you’ve inherited a firearm and aren’t sure where to start, our Missouri inherited firearms guide explains the steps in plain language. Avoiding Common Documentation Mistakes Many estate professionals and heirs make simple errors that can delay or complicate a firearm sale or transfer: Not recording serial numbers for each gun. Failing to take clear photos from multiple angles. Skipping witness signatures on private sales. Ignoring chain-of-custody records when moving firearms between locations. Not keeping copies of all paperwork for at least five years. These mistakes can lead to questions of legal ownership, lower sale prices, or even seizure of the firearm if there is a dispute. AGI Certified Appraiser Logo How Documentation Speeds Up the Sale Process When you are ready to sell or transfer a firearm, having a full documentation package allows the process to move quickly. Licensed dealers like MDRF Enterprises can verify the details, complete required background checks, and finalize the sale without delays caused by missing information. For example, if you have an appraisal report with photos, serial numbers, and proof of ownership ready, the sale can often be completed the same day. Without these, you may wait days or weeks for verification. To see exactly what Missouri requires when an estate is involved, review our guide to Missouri estate firearm transfer requirements . Sample Documentation Package At MDRF Enterprises, we prepare documentation packages that include: Certified appraisal report with PPGS grading. ATF-compliant bill of sale. Photos of each firearm for reference. Chain-of-custody log (when applicable). Copies for the executor, heirs, and buyer. This is the level of detail that protects your sale and ensures compliance with Missouri and federal law. Final Word Firearm documentation is not just about keeping records. It is about protecting the estate, ensuring compliance with state and federal laws, and making the sale or transfer as smooth as possible. At MDRF Enterprises, we help families, executors, and estate professionals avoid the pitfalls that can delay probate or cause legal issues. If you need a certified appraisal or complete firearm documentation package, contact us to start the process. 📍  visit us at: 6414A Hampton Ave, Suite #11, Saint Louis, MO 63109 📞  Call us  📩  Email

Most people think of a firearm as a rifle, shotgun, or handgun. The ATF thinks differently. In fact, there are firearm components that do not look like guns at all, yet they carry the same legal weight as a complete weapon. That disconnect creates risk for families, attorneys, estate liquidators, and fiduciaries who handle collections without specialized knowledge. In this post, I want to show you four real examples that qualify as firearms under federal law. If you were sorting an estate or liquidating a collection, would you have recognized them? 1. Remington 700 Serialized Bolt The Remington 700 is one of the most popular bolt-action rifles in America. Most people would expect the rifle itself to be the regulated item. What surprises many is that the serialized bolt can also be considered the controlled component. Discarding it, shipping it, or selling it without proper handling may expose you to federal violations. It may look like just a rifle bolt, but this serialized Remington 700 component is legally a firearm. 2. Serialized AR-15 Stripped Lower A stripped AR-15 lower looks like a small chunk of metal, hardly resembling a firearm. Under federal law, however, the lower receiver is the firearm. Every transfer must go through a licensed dealer with a background check. If an executor or estate liquidator throws it into a box of “parts” or sells it at auction as scrap, they have unintentionally mishandled a firearm in the eyes of the ATF. An AR-15 stripped lower receiver may look like a piece of metal, yet the ATF defines this as the firearm itself. 3. Serialized Polymer Handgun Frame With modern pistols, the serialized frame often appears incomplete. Without a slide or barrel, it does not look like a finished gun. Yet that bare frame is the legally controlled firearm. Families who come across these during cleanouts frequently underestimate their importance, sometimes treating them like spare plastic or a Toy Gun. Doing so carries significant legal consequences. This unfinished polymer handgun frame does not resemble a complete pistol, but by law it is the firearm. 4. Sig Sauer Serialized Fire Control Unit (FCU) Perhaps the least obvious of all is the Sig Sauer Fire Control Unit. It looks like a small internal part, not a firearm. But under the ATF definition, the FCU is the serialized and regulated component. Mishandling it during an estate process is just as serious as mishandling a complete pistol. The Sig Sauer Fire Control Unit is small and easy to overlook, yet it is the serialized firearm component. The Legal Framework Federal law defines a firearm far more broadly than most people realize. According to 18 U.S.C. § 921(a)(3)  and 27 C.F.R. § 478.11 , a firearm includes any frame or receiver of a weapon that is designed to or can readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive. That means these four parts, even when incomplete or unrecognizable, meet the legal standard of a firearm. This is why experienced professionals know that good intentions are not enough. You cannot rely on common sense when federal regulations apply. Why This Matters in Estates Estate liquidators, fiduciaries, and attorneys often encounter firearms unexpectedly. The risk is not just in the obvious rifles and pistols. The greater danger is in the serialized parts that do not appear to be firearms. Here are a few common mistakes: Selling serialized parts at auction as miscellaneous hardware. Shipping them without an FFL transfer. Discarding them as scrap. Any of these actions could create liability for the estate and potential criminal exposure for those involved. The Hidden Risk It is not the guns you see that cause problems. It is the serialized components that do not look like firearms but are treated as firearms under federal law. That is why professionals who work in estate law, liquidation, and fiduciary services should pause before moving forward on their own. Four parts, four firearms. A Remington 700 serialized bolt, an AR-15 stripped lower, a polymer handgun frame, and a Sig Sauer FCU, each one is legally a firearm under ATF rules. Would you have known? The Safer Solution At MDRF Enterprises, we identify and legally transfer all types of firearms, including serialized components that most people would miss. Our process removes liability from the estate, protects professionals from accidental violations, and ensures compliance with ATF regulations. As a Certified Firearms Appraiser aligned with USPAP standards and a licensed FFL operating in St. Louis since 2012, MDRF brings both credibility and experience. When your reputation and compliance are on the line, expertise is not optional. Final Word from Drew These four photos prove a simple point: it is not about what a gun looks like, it is about what the ATF defines as a firearm. Families and professionals cannot afford to guess. If you are managing an estate with firearms or serialized parts, call MDRF Enterprises at or visit our Professionals Page . We will handle the details safely, legally, and confidentially. ​ Serving Saint Louis City, Saint Louis County, and the surrounding Metro area 📍  visit us at: 6414A Hampton Ave, Suite #11, Saint Louis, MO 63109 📞 Call us  📩 Email

Not every collection we purchase comes from an estate or a large downsizing project. Sometimes, it’s simply about one owner making the decision to trade a few trusted firearms in order to fund something new. Earlier this week, we worked with a South City resident who had three very different guns to sell: A Marlin Model 60 .22 rifle , the classic American plinker. A Heritage Rough Rider .22 single-action revolver , a nod to Old West styling and inexpensive fun at the range. A Springfield Armory XD-9 9mm pistol , a modern defensive sidearm with plenty of followers. Each had served its purpose, but the owner was ready to consolidate and move toward a different firearm that better fit his needs. We provided a fast, confidential, and fair appraisal , allowing him to turn those three guns into cash the same day. That’s the other side of what we do at MDRF Enterprises, not just estates and collections, but also helping everyday firearm owners sell legally, quickly, and with peace of mind . If you’re in South City or anywhere across St. Louis and thinking about selling a firearm or two, we can help make the process safe and straightforward. Springfield Armory XD-9 semi-automatic 9mm handgun with polymer frame and black slide displayed on a clean surface. Marlin Model 60 semi-automatic .22 caliber rifle laid on a display table, classic wood stock and blued barrel visible Heritage Rough Rider single-action .22 revolver with wood grips and blued cylinder, styled after Old West six-shooters

When it’s time to sell a firearm collection, families and collectors have more options than ever. A quick Google search pulls up dozens of “cash-for-guns” websites promising fast offers if you’re willing to box up your firearms and ship them across the country. But here in Saint Louis, many families choose something different: a local, face to face licensed dealer they can actually meet, trust, and call by name. After 13+ years of serving the STL community, MDRF Enterprises has seen why local matters  when it comes to firearms. Firearm collection including rifles, pistols, and revolvers neatly displayed on a wooden table with the Saint Louis Gateway Arch and city skyline in the background The Rise of Internet Gun Buyers There’s no denying the appeal of convenience. National websites promise quick quotes and free shipping labels. Everything happens online, and you never meet the person making the offer. But here’s the reality most families don’t realize until later: Shipping firearms is a leap of faith.  Once your collection leaves your hands, you’re trusting strangers in another state to handle, store, and price them. If something is lost, damaged, or disputed, there’s no local accountability. Lowball offers are the norm.  Sellers on forums consistently report that “quick cash” often means pennies on the dollar. Collections worth thousands are reduced to generic bulk pricing with no consideration for rarity, condition, or provenance. No personal guidance.  These companies can’t sit across the table, explain Missouri-specific laws, or walk you through your options. If you have questions about probate, trust transfers, or executor responsibilities, you’ll get canned emails instead of real answers. Added risk of delays and disputes.  Once shipped, you may wait weeks for payment, or worse, face surprise “adjusted” offers after your collection has already left your possession. Why STL Families Choose a Local Licensed Dealer At MDRF Enterprises, our business was built right here in Saint Louis. For more than 13 years, we’ve helped families, estate executors, and collectors handle firearm collections with professionalism and care. Here’s why local makes the difference: Face-to-Face Service:  You’ll talk to a real person, not a call center. We explain the process, answer your questions, and walk you through every step. Licensed & Certified:  We’re a federally licensed firearms dealer (FFL), BBB accredited A+ , and certified in USPAP-compliant appraisals . That means your transaction isn’t just quick — it’s fully legal and professionally documented. Immediate Payment:  When we meet, you don’t wait for a check in the mail. You walk away with a fair, confidential offer backed by a trusted local business. Community Reputation:  Our stories aren’t national ads — they’re from neighborhoods like Kirkwood , Maplewood , and Holly Hills . Local families who needed help and trusted us to handle it right. What Families & Collectors Really Want At the end of the day, selling a firearm collection isn’t just about dollars. It’s about trust, safety, and peace of mind.  Families want to know: Are these firearms being handled legally? Am I getting a fair value? Can I trust the people I’m working with? In Saint Louis, the answer is simple: sit down with a licensed local dealer who’s been part of the community for over a decade. Credibility collage showing MDRF Enterprises certifications: AGI Certified Firearm Appraiser badge, BBB Accredited Business A+ logo, and a medallion celebrating 13 years in business in Saint Louis Final Word: Local Matters Internet gun buyers may be easy to click, but they’ll never replace the peace of mind that comes from dealing face-to-face with a licensed, certified professional who lives where you live. If you’re considering selling a firearm collection in the Saint Louis area, don’t settle for an anonymous shipping label. Work with real people who know your community, respect your collection, and provide a process you can trust . 👉 Contact MDRF Enterprises today for a confidential, local appraisal and quote. Serving Saint Louis City, Saint Louis County, and the surrounding Metro area 📍  visit us at: 6414A Hampton Ave, Suite #11, Saint Louis, MO 63109 📞 Call us  📩 Email

Intro: MDRF Enterprises is now officially certified by the American Gunsmithing Institute (AGI)  to offer firearm appraisals aligned with USPAP (Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice). These appraisals are compliant with IRS, court, and insurance standards, and available immediately. Whether you're a family member managing an estate or an attorney filing IRS Form 706, you now have a Missouri-based option for certified, defensible firearm valuations. 🔍 Why Certification Matters in Firearm Appraisals If you’ve ever been responsible for valuing a firearm, for probate, divorce, donation, or insurance, you know there’s a lot riding on that number. A flawed appraisal can lead to: Disputes among heirs or beneficiaries Delays in probate or tax processing Rejection by courts, insurers, or the IRS why MDRF Enterprises pursued formal certification through the American Gunsmithing Institute , completing over 80 hours of training, compliance, and documentation coursework. This certification means every firearm appraisal  we produce meets legal, court, and IRS requirements. We provide these services not just to private collectors, but also to bank trust officers and fiduciaries  who need reliable, defensible documentation. We are now recognized as an AGI Certified Firearms Appraiser . AGI Certified Firearms Appraiser Logo 🛠️ What a Certified Firearm Appraisal Includes Each MDRF appraisal now includes: ✅ A USPAP aligned written report ✅ Grading based on the Photo Percentage Grading System (PPGS) ✅ Fair Market Value and  Marketable Cash Value ✅ Full supporting photos and documentation ✅ A signature from a certified appraiser, trained and credentialed by AGI To understand the full process of preparing an estate for appraisal, see our E state Firearm Checklist . This is the level of professionalism that attorneys, executors, fiduciaries, and the IRS expect. 📑 When Do You Need a Certified Appraisal? Our certified reports are valid for: Probate filings  – Fair distribution of estate assets Divorce settlements  – Accurate, court-ready valuations Bankruptcy proceedings  – Personal net worth assessments Charitable donations  – Required for IRS Form 8283 Insurance coverage or claims  – Documenting market or replacement value Expert witness cases  – Defense-ready documentation Estate attorneys and fiduciaries can also explore our full Professional Resource Hub  for supporting tools, checklists, and guidance. Whether you’re an estate attorney, trust officer, liquidator, or family member, you’ll be able to rely on MDRF for appraisal documentation that’s more than just an opinion, it’s a legally sound valuation. 🔍 What Is USPAP? USPAP stands for the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice . It governs: Accuracy and methodology Conflict-of-interest disclosures Report transparency Legal and tax compliance Following USPAP ensures your appraisal isn’t just an opinion, it’s a report that holds up under audit, in court, or with insurers. You can read more about appraisal risks and myths in our guide What’s My Gun Really Worth? Once certification is complete, MDRF appraisals will follow these standards, ensuring they’re accepted not just by clients, but by legal and financial institutions. 🎯 How We Grade Firearms: The Photo Percentage Grading System (PPGS) We use the Photo Percentage Grading System (PPGS) , featured in the 42nd and 43rd editions of the Blue Book of Gun Values. This system allows us to evaluate firearms based on: Finish retention and wear Mechanical function Collector value Rarity and originality This visual grading system improves consistency, supports our documentation, and ensures our appraisals are clear, fair, and replicable. 🧾 What’s Behind the Certification? The AGI program includes: Real-world appraisals across estate, IRS, and litigation contexts Instruction on USPAP-compliant report writing Training in ethics, conflict disclosure, and documentation Proprietary forms and marketing guidelines Certification ID: #1152547 Issued: August 6, 2025 📣 What’s Next for Clients & Professionals? If you're a: Estate attorney preparing probate or IRS filings Fiduciary managing asset distributions Insurance agent setting replacement value Collector seeking a legally sound appraisal Family member handling inherited firearms You now have a certified, local appraiser ready to help. For a detailed look at our process and what sets us apart, visit our page on certified firearm appraisals  to see how we deliver accurate, documented valuations that meet professional standards. Contact us to schedule a certified appraisal or get urgent assistance for probate or insurance matters.