OK so I have found a NIB 6" classic 57-6 at LGS that has a decent grain pattern on the grips and nice bluing for a "current" Smith. Always wanted one to shoot and to drool over. I CAN live with the lock cuz on a blued N frame it doesn't stand out and doesn't change the radius of the frame around the hammer.
The dilemma is that I always wanted an older 57 or 57-1 too, but can NEVER seem to find one in decent shape (shooter+) for under $1000 or more.

Should I buy the New version?