Value to keeping firearms original boxes / containers?

[2A4Ever]

I was wondering what the communities thoughts are on keeping the original cardboard boxes & plastic handgun cases that the firearms originally come in? (I am currently using them to compile an inventory complete with accurate model numbers, and descriptions found on SN tag.) I have amassed quite a pile of both cardboard and plastic cases (along with gun locks, supplied cleaning kits, etc...) that like most people, I do not use to transport the firearms in, and are just taking up valuable space in my storage areas. I told myself that they will come in handy when I move, and need to transport my collection safely, but last time I moved it was easier and quicker to just wrap stuff in blankets and towels. (So I ended up moving the empty boxes at another time.) Then I figured that if I sold something, it would be worth more with all of the original packaging and accessories, but the few times that I have sold or traded, I got what I was asking for, and the person never even questioned about the box. Other than a couple of "commemorative" items, does it really add anything to the value?

[Shyster]

I keep original boxes for handguns. Definitely enhances resale value, especially for higher-end pistols.

[VIGILANT]

I keep all of mine along with the paperwork, orange safety flags, etc. Some people that use their gun as a "tool" usually don't care. But collectors, traders, etc definitely want them. There's always room to store them, attic, basement, closets, garage etc. You could build suspended platforms/shelves in your garage or part of your basement.

[Einthewoods]

I might be in the minority, but I don't see any added worth to buying a weapon that still has original packaging. If someone was selling something that was $500 and they said, but with original packaging it is $550....I'd only bring $500 to buy it.

I don't buy any guns with the idea that I would ever sell them though. Maybe if I did I would think about it differently.

[dramey82]

Depends on the firearm, collectibles always brings top dollar with the original box.

[FxMM87]

always,

depending on the gun it can definitely matter. whether its selling privately or to an FFL

[coobie]

I have paper work/boxes from the 1960,s on some guns.

[dwcopple]

having seen what some Browning and S&W boxes have sold for on eBay, only a fool would toss original boxes anymore

[gl08jk]

I keep all the boxes, paperwork, and even any parts that i replace like grips and such. Always had room to store so has been no problem.

[JohnS624]

I used to keep them, but not anymore. They take up too much room. If you mount an optic on a rifle, it won't fit in the box anyhow. I sorta wish that I still had the one for my M41, but I'm not planning on selling it anyway, so the point is moot.