I saw a 457 today in a shop I don't frequent very often: looks pretty rough, lots of carry wear and the safety is pretty gritty feeling. I liked the feel of the weapon in my hand though, and strangely the blocky slide was pretty appealing: what are your thoughts on the 457? Think a rough example would make a good project gun, and if so is it worth the $450 these guys are trying to get for it? My plan would be to pick it up and send it to S&W for a checkup, then maybe refinish it.

It's a tough way to go for what they are asking. I'd say OK if it was in very good condition. Did you break it down and get a good look at it? From your description, I'd suggest doing so, if they let you. If they don't, just walk away, they know something you don't.

It may just need a good cleaning, but no matter what, it sounds as though it has not been well cared for. You can find very good 457s all day for $450 and you won't have to send it home for a check up.

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NRA Lifer Since 1971

Good point, thanks!

Seems high for that condition.

When the 3rd Gen pistols were in production, and the premium line was up around $800, the budget series for several hundred less made a whole lot of sense. Now you can often find used premium and budget line pistols for about the same price, so you really have to look close to see which ones are bargains.

personally wouldn't pay that much for a 457 in that condition. got mine NIB for same price about 2yrs ago. they are fine guns though and, I think, a good value for the price when you pick one up at a fair price.

I agree, there are a lot of 3rd Gen fish in the sea: think I'm going to let this one go. That's Wade's for you, guaranteed overpriced...