681 Price Check

[Blade37db]

Came across a 681 at a local shop and I'm wondering what a fair price may be? Metal is in good shape (some minor wear) with no rust spots. Grips were Pachmayr (don''t think those were original) with no box or papers. Seems like not a lot of them were made and I have a thing for fixed sight stainless revolvers. It did have the "M" stamped on the crane which I believe means it was sent back for a recall that was on early 686s and 681/581s.

Thanks.

[loeman]

Yes, a somewhat difficult gun to find. It probably was shipped with service magna wood stocks. I bought mine in excellent condition about two years ago for $450 and felt like I got a good deal. It came with the original magnas, but I have changed to Ahrends Tactical (without finger grooves) and these are just great. Like you, I favor fixed sights and my 681 has become my favorite revolver (that I shoot). The trigger is fantastic and accuracy is phenomenal. I wouldn't hesitate to pay $500-$550 to replace it if in like condition.

Since it is stainless, a light cleaning with Flitz or Mother's Mag Polish will make it look like new. But be careful, these products can make a factory stainless finish look almost like nickel. Also, since it has been back to the factory for the recall fix, you won't have to give any thought about that.

If it's nice and the deal is decent, buy it. About the only ones I ever see for sale are online and they are almost always re-imports with ugly import markings. Let us know what you decide.

Edit:
After thinking about what I wrote above I am editing it now. If someone stole my 681 and was holding it for a $650 ransom, I'd pay it! That would mean I would $1100 in my 681! Oh well.

[Tom_R]

In this day, anything $700 or less is OK, depending on where in the country you are.

[snubbiefan]

Great guns and I also have a thing for fixed sight revolvers....wish I could find another 22 besides my 317 in stainless, but they never made such an animal in a snubbie. I refuse to stoop to a Charter. I paid right at $450 for my dash 3 last year as I recall and it was not imported. Well used by a LEA, but in very good shape. My table-mate had one for a while (-2) that he could not get rid of for $650. He finally caved and sold it for $600 a couple of months ago.

[Blade37db]

Thanks for the replies guys. Sounds like the asking price I'm seeing is a little bit high ($650).

[loeman]

Originally Posted by Blade37db

Thanks for the replies guys. Sounds like the asking price I'm seeing is a little bit high ($650).

Maybe, but from your first post it sounds like you have some decent negotiating points. Namely the aftermarket grips, less than excellent finish, and no original box etc.

[rock doc]

I bought my 681 from a forum member in 2014 and paid $550 shipped. $650 is just a bit high, especially with the Pacs. You may spend $50-75 for a set of correct wood stocks, if you're lucky.

[jackvs1]

I paid $500 for mine about 2 1/2 years ago, pretty good condition, original magna service grips, no box. Mine was stamped NYSP (thats what I wanted). I was extremely happy with revolver & price. Good luck

[mike from st pete]

A couple of years ago I found one at a gunshow with target stocks no box and such for $400. I probably paid too much. They are hard to find around here.