Was bitten by the S&W 3rd Gen collector bug...hard. I like the thrill of the hunt, but more importantly, enjoy the opportunity to own a fine collectible piece.

Here is my question - been looking at a CS45 blued. The screen printing (or laser etching?) is almost all worn off on the slide. Also, regarding collectability, it has A box, but not its' original box. It comes with 3 OE mags.

I am looking for more of a piece to add to a growing, but, still new, collection. I am not really looking for a weekly range shooter or CCW piece.

Is $450 too much? Been seeing some very nice Stainless/alloy ones on GB for this price or less. Let me know what you think.

A couple of days ago, there was a very nice stainless CS45 listed for $775 that didn't get any bids. Obviously, people post sales just to test the market and only the buyer knows what a gun is worth to them. $450 for a beat up example seems high to me, but I'm not in the market for one, either.

If it's for a collection, I would save my pennies for one in better condition. The problem is, they don't show up all that often.

I fell into the trap for awhile of picking up models I like, without really considering their condition.

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Because of the metric system?

too much, keep looking I wouldn't consider that one "collectible"

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Sure you did

Save your money and buy the best you can afford, that is too high.

It's marginally too high. 3 magazines is worth maybe $80 over one with only one mag. If it's in good shape for a shooter, but just a bit challenged in the cosmetics dept, try for $400 and fell good about it.

A lot of it will depend on the area you are in...
the state you live in is half the battle...

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Marlin & Calico Specialist

Quoting the immortal words of a memorable past co-worker of mine who was simply known as 'The Goat' (because he looked and smelled just like one! ), "You can do better"!

Lots of very good advice above. If this is for your permanent (or semi-permanent) collection, go for one in better condition with its original box. A box that's not original to the gun is pretty much worthless in terms of collector value (IMHO). The extra magazines do count for something price-wise, but not enough to sway me over the worn condition and no original box.

Might be worth $400 to the right buyer... possibly even $450 to someone desperate for a blued CS45 regardless of condition... but I sure wouldn't do it.

Thanks everyone. I passed on it. Will keep looking, as this is part of the fun (along with shooting) anyway!