Saw a Model 61-3 at a gun show yesterday. I'd already spent my limit for the day, so I didn't pick it up. Price was consistent with SCSW-3.

"Eye-balled" condition somewhere in range of EXC to EXC+ (it was in a case, and seller was busy making a sale so I didn't ask to handle it and look at mechanics.) "Ivory" colored grips, original zippered rug, but no original box. Seller (mis)labelled it a "Banker's Special".

Anybody know the deal on these little guys? SCSW gives some info, but not much. Any collector interest or value in them, or are they fairly easy to come by? Are they particularly rare, or pretty common?

Thanks in advance,
Red

The 61 was made from March 1970 to March 1973 with around 65,000 made and had four versions from the no dash to the dash 3 you saw. The 61-3 featured a forged aluminum frame in lieu of the cast aluminum frame used on the previous dashes. Since you mentioned ivory colored grips I'm assuming it was the nickel finish version and they were also available in blue with brown grips. Grips were plastic.

There is some collector interest in these. Most tend to have functioning problems so they aren't shot much and they are generally found in very good condition or better (because they didn't work and weren't used). It's a cool design though with the recoil spring above the barrel and it was the basis for the later 422 and other variants.

I've got a little two page PDF article on them I'd be happy to share. Send me a PM with your email address and I'll send it to you, if you want.

Thanks!!!

PM sent.

Red

I purchased a 61-2 with the pouch, no other items, that I picked up for $250 at the local show. Shoots very well considering the overall condition. Been dropped and shows it. I wanted a shooter only so the external condition was not a bother to me. LNIB 61-3 and 61-2 Escorts asking prices run about $400-$475 in Nickel, with box, pouch, and papers from what I have seen here in Washington

Picked up a mdl.61-3 the other day,I don`t think there good for any thing,but wanted it for my collection,paid $350.00,but it is new in the box with everthing.It is a blue one with brown grips,& has the 2 piece Bangor Punta box.
Dick

Nice addition to your collection!