I had need to estimate values of some used ham gear and thought I remembered a rule of thumb but wasn't sure. I found this info with a Google search.
Pricing of Used Ham Gear
From AI search, 07/21/2026 with search query “is there a rule of thumb in terms of what used ham equipment should sell for relative to original cost?”
There is no single rule of thumb because ham equipment holds its value much better than standard consumer electronics. However, a common framework for current-production gear in good condition is to aim for 65% to 70% of the new retail price. [1, 2, 3]
A popular guideline across the amateur radio community for pricing models involves a tiered percentage based on condition:
• Near-to-New (Under 2 years old, original box included): 60% to 70% of retail.
• Slightly Used (Standard wear, still fully functional): 40% to 50% of retail.
• Well-Worn / Out of Production: 25% to 35% of retail. [1, 4, 5, 6]
Factors That Change the Rule:
• Original Packaging: Having the original boxes, manuals, and power cords can add 10-15% to the value.
• Modifications: Poorly done "homebrew" modifications can slash the value, while highly sought-after factory modifications can increase it.
• True Market Value: Always check recently sold or completed listings on eBay or classifieds on QRZ to see what buyers are actually paying. [10, 11]
If you have a specific make and model (or a rough age of the gear), I can help you find its specific market value and what accessories to look for. Let me know what you're trying to price or buy!
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://stargazerslounge.com/topic/378027-how-to-determine-a-fair-price-for-second-hand-equipment/
[2] [3] [4] https://www.facebook.com/groups/12699105116/posts/10168571005490117/
[5] https://www.facebook.com/groups/451843381155768/posts/966399536366814/
[6] https://www.chemetalusa.com/copper-tungsten-scrap-pricing-recycling-value-how-to-maximize-profits/
[7] https://www.onallbands.com/7-tips-on-buying-selling-used-ham-radio-gear/
[8] https://offgridham.com/2019/04/used-radio/
[9] https://www.boomandbucket.com/blog/documentation--records-maximize-resale-value-of-heavy-equipment
[10] https://www.facebook.com/groups/12699105116/posts/10168447308525117/
[11] https://forums.qrz.com/index.php?th...am-gear-safely-and-successfully.732381/page-5
Pricing of Used Ham Gear
From AI search, 07/21/2026 with search query “is there a rule of thumb in terms of what used ham equipment should sell for relative to original cost?”
There is no single rule of thumb because ham equipment holds its value much better than standard consumer electronics. However, a common framework for current-production gear in good condition is to aim for 65% to 70% of the new retail price. [1, 2, 3]
A popular guideline across the amateur radio community for pricing models involves a tiered percentage based on condition:
• Near-to-New (Under 2 years old, original box included): 60% to 70% of retail.
• Slightly Used (Standard wear, still fully functional): 40% to 50% of retail.
• Well-Worn / Out of Production: 25% to 35% of retail. [1, 4, 5, 6]
Factors That Change the Rule:
• Original Packaging: Having the original boxes, manuals, and power cords can add 10-15% to the value.
• Modifications: Poorly done "homebrew" modifications can slash the value, while highly sought-after factory modifications can increase it.
• True Market Value: Always check recently sold or completed listings on eBay or classifieds on QRZ to see what buyers are actually paying. [10, 11]
If you have a specific make and model (or a rough age of the gear), I can help you find its specific market value and what accessories to look for. Let me know what you're trying to price or buy!
AI responses may include mistakes.
[1] https://stargazerslounge.com/topic/378027-how-to-determine-a-fair-price-for-second-hand-equipment/
[2] [3] [4] https://www.facebook.com/groups/12699105116/posts/10168571005490117/
[5] https://www.facebook.com/groups/451843381155768/posts/966399536366814/
[6] https://www.chemetalusa.com/copper-tungsten-scrap-pricing-recycling-value-how-to-maximize-profits/
[7] https://www.onallbands.com/7-tips-on-buying-selling-used-ham-radio-gear/
[8] https://offgridham.com/2019/04/used-radio/
[9] https://www.boomandbucket.com/blog/documentation--records-maximize-resale-value-of-heavy-equipment
[10] https://www.facebook.com/groups/12699105116/posts/10168447308525117/
[11] https://forums.qrz.com/index.php?th...am-gear-safely-and-successfully.732381/page-5
