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What is the approximate value and should I shoot my Winchester 1894 made in 1907?

I have been given a winchester 1894 from my father. The rifle has a 20" barrel, has all the original parts. It has one wing of the upper site broken off and some minor scratches on the stock and forearm. I did bring this gun into a gunsmith to have it inspected and cleaned. He told me that this gun is in the best condition he has ever seen from an 1894 that is this old, being made in 1907. He also told me that it is in perfect working condition and that I should really shoot it and enjoy it. Is this good advice or should I just get it insured and leave it in the gun cabinet? I am just really curious about what I have on my hands and if I should really shoot it without loosing it's value. I can give anybody pictures if needed. I would truly appreciate any information available about my gun. I have looked at all of the auction websites to try and find a gun like mine and I haven't found one yet. There are just too many variables and mine is not like any of them yet. By the way, my gun has a 20" round barrel, saddle ring, and a crescent butt plate. Thanks again.

Public Comments

1. It is already damaged so please go ahead and enjoy firing it. You cannot detract it any more by firing it just keep it in the best condition you can.
2. So it's a saddle ring carbine, but what is the chambering? has it been refinished and if not what percentage of the original finish is left on the metal and the wood? Hopefully with that info someone can give you a decently accurate value in the condition you describe shooting it shouldn't affect it's value at all as long as it gets cleaned properly
3. Please e-mail me pictures for my enjoyment. Since your rifle is not in mint condition then enjoy shooting it but please be careful and avoid additional damage. I think your gunsmith was perfectly correct. Addition details in Cal. and any markings would also be appreciated.
4. Look at it this way. If that gun was a sexy beautiful woman (that you know had been with several men before), would you hesitate? It may be a valuable gun but its not like you are going to retire on it. Shoot it clean it and take care of it.
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