Beginner collector

Question
I am a "beginner" gun collector on a limited budget. I cannot go over $1000 and would prefer to stay in the $500 range with about $750 top. I am not doing this for investment purposes or for resale at a profit, but I would like for the item to at least maintain its value, and if it increases in value that would be good also. Can you recommend a parameter for me as to manufacturer, caliber, era (ie pre ww2, post ww2, etc) reputable dealers etc. I have been looking at sites, primarily gunsamerica and guns international and it seems like I see a lot of S&W items that I might be interested in I mostly like revolvers. Thank you for advice you can give me
Jim

Answer
Winchesters made before 1964.
Any Colt or S&W revolvers that have packaging and paper work with them that unfired.
USA made Side by side shotguns by premium makers.
Military Lugars. US Military Arms.
Are a few safe bets.
In terms of places to look I really can't recommend any.
To many possible places and it depends where you live.
Gun Shows can sources.
Look at things in person before buying.
Read up on what you intend to collect.
Learn about grading of condition.
He starting point
http://armscollectors.com/