Alright fella's,
Here are pics of a Model 1917 I stumbled across on the way home tonight. The finish is pretty piss poor with light pitting at places, but mechanically it seems excellent, with lockup being crisp and tight. Bore seems very nice also. It must be a commercial version as there are no US Property markings. Serial # is 209XXX. I was able to take it home for $225 out the door from a local pawn shop. Usually, I never buy a gun the on first look, but given the price and the fact that I've always wanted a shooter 1917, I said "what the heck...I've done worse, I'll take the chance".

So, given the very poor finish, was this an okay deal? Be honest.

I woulda bought it at that price; geez, the grips are worth $75 or more, and how often do you see any pre war N frames under $500?
In fact I have one in only slightly better shape, and I paid a lot more for it.

I think I would have bought it at that price given that it is mechanically fine.

A local shop had one that was pretty beat up looking but in good mechanical condition for $250. I passed because somewhere along the line the serial number had been removed from the grip frame.

Heck yes, a shooter for that price.Good pick up.

quote:

Originally posted by Jack Flash:
A local shop had one that was pretty beat up looking but in good mechanical condition for $250. I passed because somewhere along the line the serial number had been removed from the grip frame.

Yeah, same here. I hated passing, too.

batex- I'd have bought it, too. Congrats.

That would be fun to clean up and take to the range. If it shoots as well as my older Smiths, you will definitely arouse some interest with those looks. We used to call fast but cosmetically challenged cars, "sleepers". Congratulations & good luck! Jerry

Batex, I love those old warriors. If you ever decide you want to part with it, let me know!

You stole it! Congrats!

that sucks! send it to me and i'll give ya' hand covering your losses!

If the barrel matches the chambers you did great!
I would have bought it right away, a "bead blast/matte blue" job would make it look clean and serious for a small investment.

You did just fine....enjoy it!

Beaters are the best ones to pick up !! Great find.

I'd buy it and restore it. I know I'd never get the money out of it that I would put in, but I like to have old beat up things brought back to like new (unless very collectible).

I also root for any underdog. I'm just odd, I guess.

I've been looking for just that kind of deal for awhile now. I'm still looking. You did good.

Excellent deal imo. While the ole girl may have seen better days finish wise, you still have a fine weapon.

looks....reminds me of my old uncle years ago when comparing enfields and english women: "big, strong, robust, uglier than hell, but will always get the job done"