Pre-model 24 ?

[delta-419]

I have a chance to trade a Colt Trooper MkIII in .22Mag with 8" barrel and box circia 1985, it is as NIB. Trade will be for a pre model 24 Nickel in about 90% condition. Your comments will be appreciated. Is this a good idea?

[Engine49guy]

If its an original nickel gun I would do that trade immediately....Especially if its shorter than 6.5"

What is the barrel length ?

[Kinman]

Are you sure your dealing on a .44HE 4th Model Target (Pre-Model 24) or a .44HE 4th Model Military (Pre-Model 21). A Military model does not have adjustable sights and was commonly available in nickle finish.

[beagleye]

If original nickel, run, fly like the wind, grab your trade fodder now and GO!

[Art Doc]

Um...seems to me a NIB Trooper 22 Magnum would bring a big chunk of change at auction. I would rather have the 44, but the Colt may be worth more money. I would do a little research on what a 22 Mag Trooper will fetch.

[beagleye]

True, colt troopers in 22 Mag aren't that common, in the last 90 day, 52 auction on gun broker have listed that combo, many of those were duplicates that didn't reach the reserve. Your colt is probably worth well over a grand. On the other hand nickel pre-24... 10 documented according to the thread link below. My main concern on your trade would be that it's probably not original nickel. If the gun is stamped with correct N on the grip frame and is a honest 90%, I think it's a great deal and a great opportunity.

Pre 24 Nickel??

[delta-419]

I got the photos last night, its not even a model 24, its a 2nd Model 44HE with a nickel hammer and trigger. Seller was a Colt collector without much S&W savey ??. He had stopped by my table at a local gun show and offered me a cash price for the Colt well below the asking price or a trade. I surveyed the auction houses and found the price range of 1350.00 to 2000.00 for a 99% Colt Trooper 22mrf. Love gun shows !

[Art Doc]

That's what I was thinking. A nickel 4th Model 44 Target is most likely a refinish. I would not buy without documentation confirming original status. A Second Model is worth even less. I believe that Trooper would be a $2K gun. The poorly refinished 2nd Model 44 is maybe worth $600 as a shooter.

[BlackAgnes]

Remember, there are TWO Colt Troopers in .22 Magnum. The Mark III, which I have always considered a cheap gun, and the E-Frame 4" barrel model with the old-style lockwork.

[Troystat]

Sounds like you made the right move keeping the Colt, it is so great to have resources like this forum they can keep us from making bad trades and educate us at the same time.