Can get a well used(lots of finish wear)5904 from a friend for $200. Is this a good deal? Anyone know options for refinishing it on the cheap?

In today's market is there anything you can buy for $200?

I'd probably buy a 5904 for $200 if it was mechanically sound (not run over by a truck).

I doubt I'd refinish it too. The annodizing protects the aluminum alloy frame and removing it may make it weaker. Besides, I wouldn't have worry about putting any wear in the finish.

If it shoots I would buy it for sure. There are a number of places that will coat it for you (cerakote, durakote, etc.). Prices vary but I have had it done for as little as $75. You can also buy some stuff from Brownells that will let you refinish it at home.

I recommend against the refinish on a $200 pistol unless you're really in love with it.

Scrape the rust off. Fix any broken parts. Shoot it until you get tired of it. Sell it to somebody else for $200.

Cheap finishes are teh suk.
They're bad enough on rifles.
Even worse on pistols that get carried.
I've regretted it every time.
You'll end up spending even more time removing the mess you made.

Expensive finishes on cheap guns are money cast to the wind unless you keep the gun and actually use it a lot.

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WWSSD?
What would Skeeter do?

I am always on the search for a handgun for $200. The thing I always think about is, if I think it is a deal, I'm satisfied. I try not to think about what others say; if I'm happy, then that's a good deal.

You should pass on it. But definitely forward the sellers contact info to me so I can buy it.

The gun is worth $200.00 even if its a parts gun to fix another 5904. If the gun shoots that a plus.
roaddog28

Buy it, and if you don't give me your friend's number!

If you bought it for $200.00 and sent it back to S&W and spent another $200.00 to refinish and repair it (I doubt it would be that much) it would still be a good deal. BTW, if you buy it and shoot it, you'll fall in love with it. I have several 5903's (same gun with stainless finish) and love them all. The third generation S&W pistols are outstanding. -Ed.

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Shoot the CPU, not the monitor

For $200 you can't go wrong. Even if it is only good for parts, its a great price. If it shoots you have a nice range gun that you don't have to worry about scratching. These are very tough and reliable guns, my guess is it will still shoot perfectly.

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J.D. Roy

Go for it!
I absolutely love 3rd Gen Smith pistols and would just jump at the chance to get one at 200 bucks!
G

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**Big Dog Grips**