Question for discussion is the price of the Mod. 51. Saw one for sale at a gun show a couple weeks ago for $695.00, no box or tools or papers but really nice condition. Found one today with the right box, papers, no tools & had what I believe "J" frame "Target Grips" for $525.00, also very nice condition. I'm imagine both are way too high but what should a S&W lover expect to pay as a fair price for this particular model? Your input is always appreciated.

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Sam
S&WHF 333 S&WCA 2198

Question for discussion is the price of the Mod. 51. Saw one for sale at a gun show a couple weeks ago for $695.00, no box or tools or papers but really nice condition. Found one today with the right box, papers, no tools & had what I believe "J" frame "Target Grips" for $525.00, also very nice condition. I'm imagine both are way too high but what should a S&W lover expect to pay as a fair price for this particular model? Your input is always appreciated.

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Sam
S&WHF 333 S&WCA 2198

The one for $525 is not out of line, in my area. The target stocks are almost certainly add-ons. They're worth something, particularly if they are of the right period for the gun. Some of the last J-frame targets made were really awful. Earlier ones were a little nicer.

I used to like target stocks on kit guns, but like so many things, the more I thought about them the more I preferred to change back to the magna and learn to shoot the gun with them. Whatever you do, hang on to the targets - if they are the nice ones. Keep them with the gun.

51s are cool little guns. But you either want one or you don't. I am one of those who likes them, so the $525 price is acceptable to me. I would pass on the $695 gun.

That is what I'm looking to find out M29since14 and I thank you for the reply. Surely, there are other Mod. 51 fans(experts) out there with the knowledge and experience to contribute from other localities. Hoping for second & third, etc. opinions. Again, thanks.

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Sam
S&WHF 333 S&WCA 2198

As stated, you either love them or see no reason for them. I for one think they are a great little gun for bumming around with plenty of oomph for small game, rabbits/grouse etc.

In a pinch I wouldn't hesitate to use one as a CCW gun.

They usually run abot $100/$150 less than the stainless counterpart 651. I paid $450 for mine quite a few years ago and still think of it as money well spent.


$500 plus or minus $50 for condition and vintage would be right on target around here.


The $695 is high IMHO. MAYBE, if it was NIB and everything was there. But then that would be a Safe Queen and I buy guns to carry and shoot.

Ross