Colt Peacekeeper, MK V, . 357 Mag

[OLDNAVYMCPO]

I have a chance to purchase a like new, no box 6 inch MK V. This is the black parkerized version manufactured in '85-'87 when Colt couldn't blue due to strike at plant. Called the poor man's Python or the ugly duckling. Know nothing about this particular model, I've only had Pythons and Diamondbacks. Does it compare favorably with a S&W 586, and what would be the value. The prices I have found on different sites vary widely. I would really appreciate your sage advice, thanks.

 

[824tsv]

Many that I've seen had quality issues, either blemishes in the finish, canted barrels or other problems. Not a great time in Colt history.

 

[WC145]

Prices have been going up, like on all Colt revolvers, and a lot of sellers are talking them up like they're something rare and special. They might be relatively rare but they're not too special and they're certainly no Python, poor or otherwise, more the poor man's Trooper. I've never seen or heard of any major mechanical issues with them but the parkerized finish is rough, there will be tool marks, etc because that was where they had to scrimp to get the guns built and out to market. The 6" guns seem to be more common than the 4". I've wanted a 4" since they came out but have yet to come across the right deal at the right time.

Considering that I paid $450 locally for a 96% nickeled 4" Trooper MkIII and <$250 for a parkerized Agent from the same era a couple of years ago. And, that the uniqueness of the gun is due to the finish and the story that goes with it, it really doesn't have any other redeeming qualities that make it stand out, I'd be looking to give around $500-$550 max. Naturally local markets differ and how bad you want it is always a factor. For me, if I found a 98% or better 4" Peacekeeper I'd go to $650 and maybe a bit more, but that just because I've wanted one forever.

 

[quinn]

I have a 4" Peacekeeper--well, actually I had 2 but sold 1. As I understand it, it was only the final polishing department that was on strike at Colt which is why these have a matt finish. The fit and quality of mine is excellent. It seems that the MK V's are going up in price much master than the Mk III's (there are a lot fewer of them and they are great). I have the Trooper, Peacekeeper, Lawman, and early blue King Cobra (all 4" models) in my Mk V collection. I think I sold my Peacekeeper (no box, 96%) for something like $650 or $700 a year ago. Hope this helps.

 

[OLDNAVYMCPO]

For those who responded, you deserve to know how the story ends. Yesterday, I met with the seller and bought a like new six inch Peacekeeper. The finish was uniform and without blemish or flaws. The Parkerizing takes a little getting used to. Mechanically the gun was perfect. As an aside, from the same seller, I got a four inch, like new, nickel Diamondback .38 Spl. Together the deal was very respectable, well under market value. The weather here is wet so will wait until tomorrow to get to the range. Once I figure out how to post photos on here I'll do that, maybe in a follow-up thread. Thanks.

 

[ralph7]

Your Peacekeeper is one of the strongest 357's around. It doesn't lock up solidly like the older Colt's, but it was designed that way.
You made a decent investment especially because Colt DA revolvers are no longer made.