RIAC Blog

Prisoner of War and Congressman: Alfred Ely's Smith & Wesson Model 1

New York Congressman Alfred Ely went to observe the Battle of Bull Run and found himself a prisoner of the Confederacy for more than five months.

Back to Back World War Champs

The M1911 helped America become back to back World War champs. But does the pistol's lofty reputation live up to the hype?

War Trophies: Bring Back Guns Gaining in Value

The rules around war trophies have tightened so that bring back guns are becoming rarer and more valuable than ever.

Browning Automatic Rifle: Full Auto Perfection

The Browning Automatic Rifle provided covering fire during the trench combat of World War 1 and also served U.S. infantry in World War 2.

Trench Guns: Shotguns for Ferocious Fighting

Trench guns, shotguns with shortened barrels and ready for bayonets, made for a fearsome weapon in the trenches of World War I and beyond.

Colt Python Prices, Values and Trends

We analyzed eight years of auction data and the numbers are clear: Colt Python values are on the rise at Rock Island Auction Company.

Winchester 73 Movie

The Winchester ‘73 movie charts the journey of a Winchester 1 of 1000 and a colorful cast of Old West archetypes who desire the fabled rifle.

Carlos Gove and the Denver Gunsmiths' Feud

Carlos Gove excelled at making guns and shooting them. When a fellow gunsmith questioned his ability at both it opened up a feud in 1870s Denver.

The Story of Memorial Day

The story of Memorial Day dates to the Civil War, when towns across America observed days of remembrance for those who fell on the battlefield.

What's The Value of a Factory Letter?

A factory letter can tell a lot about a gun and increase its value while providing a good starting point to find out more about its history.

Gun Gifts for Dad

Gun gifts for dad are a great alternative to neckties and coffee mugs. Whether you're shopping for a shooter, hunter, or collector, RIAC has you covered.

Ulysses S. Grant Record Propels Premier Auction to $28.2 Million

A record-setting pair of revolvers owned by Ulysses S. Grant propelled Rock Island Auction Company's May 13-15 to a $28.2 million result.