Author: Lambert Pawn

  • Lead-Free Ammunition

    Lead-Free Ammunition

    By 2019, lead-free ammunition will be required for all hunting. If you’re wondering what the big deal is over lead ammunition or are worried how lead-free ammunition will impact your hunt, then this article is for you.

    Lead-Free Ammunition

    Why Lead-Free Ammunition?

    Lead ammunition has been used in hunting and sport shooting since what seems like forever because it is easy to make at an affordable price. It is true that lead-free ammunition is a bit more expensive, but the positives most definitely outweigh the negatives.

    Lead-free ammunition ensures the highest quality meat from your hunt.

    Lead bullets leave harmful remnants throughout the meat as it passes through an animal. The particles left behind are so small that they are impossible to find or remove; however it is still dangerous to ingest. Some skeptics argue that lead-free bullets are less effective, but science can prove otherwise. Performance-wise, lead-free bullets made from copper or gilded metal have a better weight retention and penetration, which means the bullets can crush bone and create the organ and tissue damage you want during a hunt. Lead-free bullets also do not fragment like lead bullets do, which means that when it hits the animal, it has retained more energy and can therefore pass more energy on to the animal and create more internal damage. Documentation also shows that because of lead-free bullets weight and lack of fragmentation, it is more likely to create a large exit wound, which leaves a better trail of blood allowing for a more likely recovery.

    Lead-free is safer for everyone.

    Beyond the concerns of lead remnants in your food is the negative impact lead ammunition has on the environment. If you are an avid hunter, we can only assume you are a nature lover. So, you will be happy to know that using lead-free ammunition will result in the elimination of secondary loss of wildlife. With lead bullets, you run the risk of remnants from the ammunition be left at the scene of the hunt where it can potentially be ingested by other wildlife. It is a well-known fact that lead bullets unintentionally kill bald eagles and other wildlife from the harmful lead remnants left behind.

    Not so much of a conservationist? That’s fine, but think about the dust residue from lead ammunition that you are inhaling during your hunts. Or that your children are inhaling on your hunts. Due to the change in law come 2019, you can already find more and more calibers and weights of lead-free bullets. We carry a wide variety of lead-free ammunition at Lambert Pawn currently and will continue to expand our selection to meet your ammunition needs.

  • California Proposition 63

    California Proposition 63

    If you are a licensed gun owner in the state of California, you’ve likely heard of Proposition 63. Proposition 63 places stronger requirements on the purchase and possession of ammunition. While there is strong support for the new law, there is also a strong voice of opposition. Opponents to the law argue that the law violates the rights of the second amendment. Regardless, the law is still on track to take effect beginning January 1, 2018.

    California Proposition 63

    California Proposition 63

    In summary, Proposition 63 states that as of January 1, 2018, it will be illegal to purchase ammunition, reloading bullets and brass, magazines and speed loaders via the internet or mail orders without shipping to a licensed dealer. However, there is more to the law that will affect gun owners as well as ammunition dealers, like Lambert Pawn. Here is what you need to know about the law.

    • A background check will be required in order to purchase ammunition in California
    • Dealers must obtain a 1-year license from the Department of Justice (DOJ)
    • Purchasing ammunition out-of-state and returning with the purchased ammunition to California will risk a misdemeanor charge
    • In order to give or sell personal ammunition to another individual, owners will need to seek out a licensed dealer to act as a middle-man and essentially oversee the transfer.

    Essentially, the state of California is trying to ensure background checks are taking place and that the individuals verifying the checks are also verified (licensed) through the Department of Justice. The law was introduced and passed with the hope that it will keep guns and ammunition out of the wrong hands by closing loopholes in existing gun laws. Supporters of the law say that the law does in fact protect the rights of law-abiding citizens’ abilities to bear arms as allowed by the second amendment.

    Lambert Pawn is a proud dealer of guns and ammunition and is licensed by the Department of Justice. We look forward to partnering with you for all your ammunition needs and are happy to answer any questions regarding the new law and required background checks for the purchase of ammunition.

  • 2017 Jewelry Trends

    2017 Jewelry Trends

    Buying jewelry from your local pawn shop is one of the best consumer decisions you can make. Most jewelry pieces found in pawn shops are priced between 50% and 75% of their retail value and are in great condition.

    Keep in mind these two things when considering buying jewelry from a pawn shop.

    1. People who need cash fast don’t just own old pieces of fine jewelry. Our selling customers come from all walks of life and all generations, too. Meaning, the likelihood of a customer pawning an inherited piece of jewelry and a 1-year old beautiful diamond engagement ring are the same.
    2. Vintage is always trendy. If you are looking for a true vintage piece of jewelry that none of your friends will have, check out your local pawn shop’s selection.

    If you are a jewelry lover or even just a trend lover, and like most of America, want to get a good deal, then check out your local pawn shop and see which of the below 2017 jewelry trends you might snag for a steal.

    2017 jewelry trends

    2017 Jewelry Trends

    Tassel Earrings were frequently seen on the 2017 fashion runways. Like much of fashion trends, tassel earrings were popular once before so there is a good chance a local pawn shop might just have a pair of gold or silver tassel drop earrings at a fraction of the cost.

    Hoop Earrings Maybe you were living under a rock when hoop earrings were a big deal in the past but you will be relieved to know that they are back again gracing the runways and pages of Vogue. The opportunity of finding a pair of 24k earrings in a pawn shop is waiting for you. Bruno Mars would be proud.

    Chokers are back The great thing about this trend is that it is not limited to color, style or size. The 2017 catwalks flaunted every type of choker imaginable. Oversized, metallic, leather, dainty, you name it. You will be on trend!

    Hardware and Chain link Metal jewelry pieces are very on trend right now and specifically ones that make big statements. Either by their size or the unique details of their hardware. Have you ever wondered if pawn shops buy or sell gold and silver? They do.

    Don’t fall victim to the mindset that all the jewelry in pawn shops look like the gaudy broach your great Aunt Tildie wore to church every Sunday. While it is true that we may have 1 or 2 fine quality broaches in our shops, we also have fine jewelry that is in line with current fashion trends.

  • Pawning Vinyl Records

    Pawning Vinyl Records

    Sometimes old things become cool again, and just like Betty White, beards, and bell-bottoms, vinyl records are back. In fact, for the past 10 years, the sale of vinyl records is up 28%! One argument for the rise in vinyl sales is that the sound quality of a record dominates pretty much any other form of listening available. Others argue that the rising trend of vinyl records is influenced by the nostalgia it offers for some of the music icons that have recently passed such as David Bowie, Prince, and even George Michael. Another argument for vinyl records is quite simply, the “retro-cool” factor.

    If you have a stash of vinyl records from your youth hidden away, you may be sitting on some cash. But before you get too excited thinking you can retire early, there are a few things you need to know about vinyl records.

    Pawning Vinyl Records

    3 Tips for Pawning Vinyl Records

    First, many vinyl records had several different releases with different imprints or album covers. Depending on which version of the record you own, you could sell it for a few bucks or several hundred dollars. For example, there are at least 24 versions of The Beatles record “Yesterday and Today”, and there is a wide range of value depending on which of the 24 versions you own.

    You also need to be honest about the records you have. Just like with today’s music, there were tons of releases every year in the 60’s and 70’s. Maybe you didn’t have great taste in your 20’s (or 30’s or 40’s). If no one else listened to your music 40 years ago, no one is going to want to listen to it today either. For your record to be worth anything, it must be something that was and, is popular, and is in good condition.

    Lastly, it is important that you don’t assume your newer vinyl record is worthless; in fact, just the opposite may be true. Vinyl albums have become so popular that some artists are releasing vinyl records in limited amounts. The fact that they are releasing vinyl in limited amounts makes the records rare and therefore, usually worth a decent amount of money.

    If you are interested in pawning or selling your vinyl records, you will need to do some research. An easy place to start is by researching historical rates of the same or similar records on sites like Discogs, Ebay and Amazon. If you are concerned about the imprint or version of the record you have, you can use things like catalogue numbers, label names, and the etchings found in the runout groove to verify which release you own.

    It also important to use some common sense when pawning or selling your records. Things like making sure the record still plays and/or isn’t scratched is an important step before heading to your local pawn shop. Having the original album cover will help increase the worth of the record, too. However, having a missing or damaged cover does not automatically rule out a sale, depending on the record itself.

  • How to Pawn or Sell your Used Electronics

    How to Pawn or Sell your Used Electronics

    If you need cash fast or are looking to declutter your home without the hassle of a garage sale, you should consider selling or pawning your used electronics. More than likely you have an old phone, tablet, gaming system, laptop or PC laying around your home that is no longer being used. Also more than likely, those same electronics have some value and can be sold or pawned with some ease. If you are unsure how to prepare your electronics for sale, follow our simple steps below.

    Sell electronics for cash through pawn

    How to Pawn or Sell Your Used Electronics

    Clean it Up!

    First impressions matter with your used electronics, just like with everything else! If your old equipment has been in the attic collecting dust, make sure you wipe it off. Easy, right? Larger issues like cracks or scrapes may be harder to fix or altogether not worth it. For example, if you have a crack in your old tablet, consider having it repaired. Weigh the cost of the repair against what you expect to earn from the sale of the tablet before getting it repaired. If it makes sense financially, pay for the repair prior to selling.

    Collect the Pieces

    Used electronics will sell for more money if you have all the original components that would have come in the original package. Some examples of ideal components to be included are below.

    • Cords
    • Console
    • Manual
    • Original Box
    • Controllers
    • Accessories

    Wipe it Clean – Again

    No, we aren’t expecting you to clean your item a second time. We are talking about wiping the item clean of any personal data that may still be found on the device. This is an important step to protect yourself and your information from theft. Back up any data you may want to save, sign out of all your accounts and then permanently delete all information from the device.

    This step will also make the item more attractive to potential buyers. Having the device wiped clean will save the buyer time after purchase.

    Total Reset

    Most electronics have an option to perform a factory reset. If you are unsure how to perform a factory reset on your electronics, you can check your manual or even look for directions online. Performing a factory reset will set the preferences of the device back to its original state (i.e. the device will function the same as it did the first time you used it).

    Whether you are interested in selling or pawning your used electronics, these steps will help you get a higher bid from your local pawn shop. Once you have followed these important steps, make sure you do some research and discover what a reasonable offer would be for the electronic item you are looking to pawn or sell.

    Ready to see what your old electronics may be worth? Stop in and see us!

  • How to Clean your Gun Before Pawning or Selling

    How to Clean your Gun Before Pawning or Selling

    There is no question that when you want to pawn or sell an item, you should put your best foot forward. You should be prepared to answer questions about your item, have an idea of the current value of the item and be prepared to walk away from the deal. However, it is also important to remember that your item’s first impression is just as important as yours. Make sure you clean off cobwebs, wipe off dirt, and if possible, remove rust spots before trying to pawn or sell your gun.

    How to Clean a Gun before Pawning or Selling

    How to Clean your Gun Before Pawning or Selling

    One of the more difficult items to clean is a firearm. There are a lot of moving parts, tough to reach areas, and sometimes, signs of age that can be difficult to erase.

    Step 1: Prepare the Area

    Cleaning a gun typically creates a mess. For this reason, you will want to find a space where you don’t mind the mess or that can easily be cleaned up.

    Step 2: Gather your Supplies

    There are a few must have items when cleaning your firearm. Make sure you gather these items before you begin.

    • Toothbrush
    • Cotton Rag
    • Gun Cleaning Solvent
    • Copper or Brass Brush
    • Thin Gun Oil

    Step 3: Remove Surface Dirt

    Use your dry cotton rag to remove any surface level dirt or sediment off the firearm. Remove the gun’s barrel so you can wipe inside. Removing as much dirt and grime during this step will make the remaining cleaning process smoother.

    Step 4: Remove Rust

    Many pistols are made with polymer components so you will want to separate those pieces from the steel pieces. The reason being is that we recommend cleaning rust off with a copper or brass brush. However, a copper brush will scratch the polymer pieces; which is why you will want to separate the two materials when removing rust. A small toothbrush should suffice to clean off grime from the polymer.

    Steel Components Include:

    • Upper Receiver
    • Barrel
    • Recoil Springs
    • Magazine

    Use your copper or brass brush to begin removing rust from the steel pieces of your firearm. Repeatedly shake out the gun during cleaning to remove lose rust particles. This may be the most time-consuming part of cleaning your firearm depending on the amount of rust. Finish by wiping the firearm with your dry cotton rag.

    Step 5: Apply Solvent

    Applying cleaning solvent to your firearm is an optional step. The solvent will help breakdown any remaining dirt or grime that is difficult to see or reach. Use your toothbrush to scrub inside any cracks or crevices you cannot reach.

    Step 6: Apply Gun Oil

    Wipe down your firearm with gun oil to prevent rust from forming on the gun. You only need a very small amount to provide your gun with added protection. If you accidentally apply too much oil, you can easily use your cotton cloth to wipe down the gun and remove the excess.

    After following these steps, your firearm should look shiny and new. You are now ready to visit your pawn shop and begin negotiations. As always, be sure to bring your firearm to the shop unloaded and securely locked in its case. It’s important to always follow safety guidelines for safe handling of firearms.

  • 4 Warning Signs of a Bad Pawn Shop

    4 Warning Signs of a Bad Pawn Shop

    Contrary to a popular-but-outdated belief, pawn shops are not interested in buying your stolen goods. A pawn shop’s long-term success relies on its repeat customers, which means its reputation can make or break its business. If you’ve read about the benefits of buying or selling through a pawn shop and want to be sure to choose a reputable pawn broker for your first (or next) deal, we have a few guidelines for you below.

    Warning Signs of Bad Pawn Shop

    4 Warning Signs of a Bad Pawn Shop

    Their license isn’t current All pawn shops are regulated through their respective state governments. Ask the pawn shop to see a copy of their license at your next visit. If they refuse or show you an expired license, take your business elsewhere.

    They don’t ask questions A pawn shop will ask a variety of qualifying questions to ensure that the individual selling an item is, in fact, the owner of the item. If you have tried to sell an item or overhear another individual selling an item, and the shop representative asks little to no questions, you have good reason to be concerned.

    There is not a lot of variety Most reputable shops will have a wide variety of items in their store such as but not limited to: jewelry, tools, art, and electronics. If you walk into a shop that only has electronics to sell, it may be a good indicator to take your business elsewhere.

    Better Business Bureau Just like you would with any other type of business you are considering doing business with, be sure to do some research before you even leave your home and look the shop up on the Better Business Bureau’s website. If you see that multiple reports have been made against the shop, don’t even bother going to the store.

    The truth about stolen goods and pawn shops is that most criminals would rather sell their items online or on the streets to avoid being caught. However, as you would find in any industry, there are some bad seeds out there. Know what to look for before making your purchase and always trust your instincts.

  • 5 Steps for Haggling at a Pawn Shop

    5 Steps for Haggling at a Pawn Shop

    Buying, selling or pawning an item all have 1 thing in common: everything is negotiable. Haggling seems to be a lost art these days, but we would be doing you a disservice if we didn’t encourage you to get the best possible deal at your local pawn shop. Negotiating may make some folks uncomfortable, but with these easy guidelines we are certain that anyone can successful.

    Haggling at a Pawn Shop

    5 Steps for Haggling at a Pawn Shop

    Be informed

    Don’t walk into a pawn shop before you have researched every possible detail of the item you are ready to negotiate on. Know all the necessary product specs, and most importantly, know the value. If it is a piece of art or fine jewelry, you may want to have it appraised by a 3rd party. If it’s a tool or electronics item, check sources like eBay to find out the item’s online value.

    Be friendly

    You kill more flies with honey. That saying is true even in pawn shops. Make small talk with the shop representative and be polite. They will be much more willing to work with you than if you are rude or discourteous. Being impolite or aggressive will get you nowhere other than out the door.

    Be reasonable

    Pawn stores are still businesses and need to make a profit, so it’s important to be reasonable with your offers. Especially if you are new to haggling and a little uncomfortable. Asking for a 20% discount when buying or 20% increase when selling is a great starting point. Don’t offer $300 for an item that’s marked for sale at $1200. Annoying the sales rep is not a good strategy.

    Be patient

    Wait for the representative to make the first offer. If they want your item badly enough or want to move the item off the shelf, they will make an offer. Let them show you their cards first; this is especially important for first-time hagglers.

    Be ready to walk

    If you’ve done your research (and we trust you have) and the shop is not offering you a reasonable deal, remember that you can walk. It might not be the day for you to buy, sell or pawn your item. Don’t short-sell your item for less than it’s worth.

    The best piece of advice we can give you when haggling at a pawn shop is do not be uncomfortable. The owner and representatives of the store expect some negotiation on every deal they make. You are not being rude, offensive or pushy when trying to haggle. Advocate for yourself and you will come out with a better deal.

  • 5 Questions to Ask Before Buying A Used Watch

    5 Questions to Ask Before Buying A Used Watch

    If you think buying used jewelry is “taboo”, you might be swayed by knowing that jewelry for sale in pawn shops can be up to 50% off of retail prices. That’s why if you are in the market for a quality watch, buying from a pawn shop should be your first stop. In order to be sure you get exactly what you’re looking for, and that the watch is worth the asking price, do some research first and be ready to ask these simple questions below.

    Questions to ask before buying a used watch

    5 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Used Watch

    How does the watch work?

    • You might feel a little silly asking this question but trust us – you will look sillier if you don’t ask this very basic question. The pawn shop should be able to give you all the information about how the watch works and its functions (e.g. chronograph, calendars, date, time, etc.)

    What movement does this watch use?

    • This is almost a trick question for the salesperson as most anyone cannot memorize the “engine” of each and every watch model and brand. However, if the salesperson shows a complete inability to answer this question, you can be pretty sure that they have limited knowledge about watches altogether.  The movement of a watch is essentially how the watch runs (i.e. the internal functioning that makes it tick).

    What are the alternatives?

    • If you were looking into buying a particular SUV, you wouldn’t hesitate to look into comparable makes and models before making your decision. Buying a quality watch shouldn’t be any different. Ask the salesperson what alternatives watches are in the category of watch that you are looking at. For example, if you are looking for a showpiece or high-end sport watch, ask the salesperson what other brands offer pieces in the same price range.

    What was the release date?

    • This is an especially important question for the top of the line brands such as Rolex. While newer models may be generally pricier because of limited release, there are also highly sought-after vintage models from different eras.

    How often and how much?

    • We’re talking about service. Since watches are machines, they need routine servicing in order to have a long run-life. Servicing a watch typically includes cleaning and oiling the watch. As simple as it sounds, these trips can be pricey. Ask the retailer how often you will need to have the watch serviced and about how much it will cost. If you are serious about the watch, it would be smart to call several certified watch service/repair shops in the area for the most accurate information.

    We always recommend doing your own research before heading out to a retailer in order to know the quality of your piece and also to know the going rate of the item. Trust your gut when dealing with the salesperson; if you are not convinced that they are knowledgeable about the watch, take your time to do more research on the item and on comparable watches at other shops.

  • Diamonds are an April Birthday’s Best Friend

    Diamonds are an April Birthday’s Best Friend

    As April draws to a close, let’s shine a light on perhaps the most famous of all the monthly birthstones: the diamond. Most of us have or will be in the market to purchase a diamond at some point in our lives. The process of diamond shopping can feel overwhelming at first, but with some basic knowledge you can feel confident in the price and quality of the diamond you choose.

    4 Cs of Diamond Shopping

    Chances are within minutes of walking into a jeweler to peruse their diamond selection, you will begin talking about the 4 Cs (Cut, Color, Clarity, & Carat) with the salesperson. In order to ask the best questions and ultimately make the best purchase for you, make sure you understand the 4 Cs before you walk into a jeweler, pawnshop, or other diamond seller.

    The 4Cs of Buying a Diamond

    Cut  

    The most important characteristic of a diamond is its cut; the cut of a diamond is not to be confused with the diamond’s shape (round, emerald, princess, cushion, pear, etc.).  When the cut of a diamond is discussed, you are actually speaking about the proportions to which the diamond is cut to. A well-cut diamond will allow the maximum amount of light to pass through the stone, creating all of its brilliancy.

    Simply put: the better cut a diamond is, the more it will sparkle.

    Color

    Discussing the color of a diamond is a bit deceiving to novices as it is the lack of color in a diamond that is considered highest quality. The color of a diamond is graded on a scale of colorless to light yellow (D to Z). Diamonds that are colorless, meaning they rate in the D – F range, are the highest quality as their lack of color allows the most amount of light to pass through the stone. As we know from discussing the cut of the diamond, the more light that passes through the stone, the more it sparkles.

    Clarity

    The clarity of a diamond speaks to its flaws, commonly referred to as “inclusions”. Clarity is rated anywhere from flawless to imperfect (inclusions visible to the eye). Where a diamond rates on this scale depends on the number of inclusions and where they are located. Inclusions found on the surface of the stone are rated better than if the inclusions were found on the interior of the stone. You may have guessed why the number of inclusions found in a diamond is significance to its value…inclusions create barriers for light to pass through the stone. If a stone has no inclusions then light is able to pass straight through the stone, creating that much sought after sparkle.

    Carat

    The weight of a diamond is measured in carats; each carat is made of 100 points. For example, if you have a diamond that weighs 75 points, your diamond is .75 carats. Many believe that the bigger the diamond, the better, but that is not always the case. Two diamonds of the same weight can vary greatly in price depending on the cut, color, and clarity of the diamonds. For example, if you have two 1 carat diamonds and the first diamond has flawless clarity and is colorless, but the second diamond has imperfect clarity and is light yellow in color, the second diamond will have a much lower value than the first.

    When it comes to knowing the value of a diamond, it’s all about the things that impact the sparkle! Knowing how the 4 Cs impact the sparkle of a diamond will help you ensure you are buying the right diamond for your budget and your taste.