Who we are

Welcome to 4 Aces Development

4 Aces Development is dedicated to the world of antique firearms and collectibles. Founded by John “Little John” Gangel, a respected expert in the field, our company is committed to offering exceptional antiques that embody the rich history and craftsmanship of the past.

Our Founder

John Gangel has established himself as a leading figure in the antique firearms and auction industry. With decades of experience as an auctioneer and appraiser, John’s expertise and passion for historical weaponry serve as the foundation of 4 Aces Development LLC. His dedication to preserving history is evident in every aspect of our business. Little John’s renowned auctions have attracted collectors from around the world, showcasing some of the most remarkable and historically significant firearms known to collectors. He started with his father “Big John” in 1968 and Moe Gronsky at Musket and Sabre Antique Arms in Costa Mesa, California. In 1972- 1973, he opened The Armseller and The Arms Locker located in Midway City and Pasadena, California, respectively. In 1975 Little John became a full partner with Robert Elz of Elz Fargo Company 830 S Main St, Santa Ana, California. Elz Fargo was widely publicized as the finest antique emporium in the west selling arms, collectors automobiles, antiques, jewelry, and every type of collectors artifacts imaginable even including antique toys. In 1979, Robert Elz passed on and Little John founded Little Johns Antique Arms and Auction Services. From 1979 - 2019, Little John produced over 200 auctions with 72 color catalogs and over 200 catalog lists. Little John has called firearms auctions, car auctions, and antique auctions, including over 100 Asian arts auctions for the Chinese Antique Commission and George Hsieh, President of Eileen of China, Seattle, Washington. In his portfolio of auctions, he also donated services to enumerable charities and collectors organizations including Texas Gun Collectors, Colt Collectors Association, and Winchester Collectors Association. Occasionally, he called auctions for major art galleries and bank and commercial liquidations. In his more than 50 years of auction experience he has been the lead auctioneer of over 500 auctions and estimates 700 total sales representing 100’s of million dollars. Notable arms sales include The James Gordon Winchester Collection, The Charley Schreiner Y.O. Ranch Collection, The Robert Berryman Collection, The Carl Cowles Collection of Colts, The Bill Gary Confederate Arms Collection, The Eric Vaule Collection of European Arms, The Joe Kiser Colt Collection, and literally 100’s of estates of nationwide and even the Juan Carlos Amadeo Collection from a private museum in Argentina. Notable single items sold privately include the gold mounted Boutet garniture considered the finest set of antique arms set in existent in private hands. Also, serial #1 Texas Patterson, the first gun to break one million dollars in 1991, Walker’s Walker #1010, Sam Colts engraved Patterson #601 the best engraved Patterson, the emperor of Japan ornately gold inlaid Winchester in its original case considered by advanced collectors the finest embellished Winchester in private hands. Also historical artifacts at auction including the documented by court records Smith and Wesson that killed Jesse James, Sam Houstons Bowie Knife, “Old Lucky” belonging to Texas lawman Frank Hamer, “Black Jack” Ketchum’s Colt and a photographic archive from the lawman who captured and hung him. General George Custer’s Springfield sporting rifle used by him on the famous hunting expedition with Czar Alexander. Just to name a few of the highlights of the best collectors arms imaginable or extant.

His wife, Diana Gangel, ably assisted him in managing Little Johns from 2005 to 2020. Diana's passions are antiques, collectibles, and fine jewelry.

Our Mission

Our mission is to bridge the past and the present by providing collectors and enthusiasts with access to unique and historically significant antiques. We meticulously curate each item, ensuring it meets our high standards for authenticity and quality. We believe that every piece in our collection has its own story to tell.

What We Offer

At 4 Aces Development, we offer a diverse range of antiques, including:

  • Antique Firearms: Our collection features a variety of rare and historic pistols, rifles, and other firearms, each chosen for its historical significance and condition.

  • Collectibles: In addition to firearms, we offer a selection of militaria, edged weapons, and other historical artifacts.

  • Appraisals and Expertise: Leveraging John Gangel’s extensive knowledge and auctioneering experience, we provide expert appraisals and consultations, helping you understand the value and history of your antiques.

Our Commitment

We are committed to delivering an exceptional experience to all our customers. Whether you are a seasoned collector or new to the world of antiques, we offer personalized service to help you find the perfect addition to your collection. Our dedication to integrity, quality, and customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do.

Join Us on Our Journey

We invite you to explore our collection and discover the stories behind each piece. At 4 Aces Development, we don’t just sell antiques—we share a passion for history. Join us on this journey and experience the fascination of connecting with the past through our carefully curated offerings.

For more information or inquiries, please contact us.