I recently found my dad's Browning Explorer I, model 3D258-1, 40X#, 56" AMO.
I am wondering if anyone knows what year it was made, and is it better to keep as a collectors item, or take it out and shoot it? It is in very good condition.
Thanks for your help.
Made late 60s or early 70s. Not sure if you can date these from serial number. It is somewhat collectable, but not real collectable. I guess the value at about $150. Go ahead and shoot it.
The Explorer I with serial # 3D258 was the 258th bow of that model made in 1973.
That bow (as are most other Brownings) is a fantastic shooter as well as looker. I agree they are not super collectible, but still highly regarded and sought out for their shooting abilities.
The value of $150 mentioned is about right, but the prize is really shooting it.
If it is in really good shape you can get more than $150, but likely not over $200. If you draw 28" or less I would shoot it and enjoy it. After all, it was your dads........make some memories with it.