Laser Etching/Engraving vs Hand Engraving

[NIGHTHAWK]

In the interest of having some laser etching done for work and some personal items, I came across a lot of posts and videos for laser etching/engraving pistols and rifles.

Have you or anyone you know had a rifle or shotgun laser etched in lieu of traditional hand engraving?

Thoughts on one vs the other? Does engraving enhance or diminish value?

Please share examples of the work.

 

[Ridge Runner]

Just my 2¢

If a well known engraver artisan does the engraving then it will definitely increase value much like any art work. Even though hand engraving will last longer it will eventually wear down but nothing like etching that will wear away.

Two other consideration:

1. The type and amount of engraving. IMO there is such a thing as too much engraving.

2. The popularity and brand of the firearm, ie. engraving an inexpensive (cheap, Iver Johnson) firearm won't turn it into a more expensive (better quality, higher priced, Winchester, Remington, etc.) firearm.

Will an engraved ie. Colt 1911A1 be worth more money than a "Plain Jane" Colt 1911A1 of the same model? Generally speaking Yes. Finding a buyer willing to pay extra for the pistol with after market engraving might or might not be a challenge.

This same Colt 1911A1 with etching opposed to engraving, you might get lucky (depending on variables) to make your money back.