Keep Looking
In my opinion even with the associated cost for buying online that is where you should start. At the very least you can get a feel for the market and are not committed to making a decision after looking at one or two M19's. You did visit the right venue to start learning all the basics for purchasing the very sought after M19 especially the pinned and recessed model you are submitting. I have been looking for months on Gun Broker (GB) for a model 19-1 thru 3 right in the price range you are asking about and in my opinion if you just factor the rust on that gun it wouldn't be on my list. That abuse is indicative of other issues you will most likely find. Remember "rust never sleeps" You can do better period, much. You will find pricing to have a regional factor so even if you loose the benefit of handling a gun and having a up close and personal experience in a face to face situation you are still only looking at one option where on a site like GB in spite of associated cost that will run $50-$70 the key is to find a reputable dealer with top of the line feedback. You will then open the door to maybe being able to compare 20 different firearms of varying prices in your range until you come across one that feels just right. If you don't like the auction experience there is GunsInternational that features fixed prices. There is a 98% S&W M19-5 4" barrel from a very reputable seller priced at $750 (maybe a little high) with rubber grips and no box or paperwork but if you want a first class shooter, go to GI and enter item #100517453.You can also just open the S&W revolver section and look at all the 19"s they have. Another option is to go to a model 66 the stainless steel version of the M19, they are more plentiful thus cheaper and you won't find a smoother double/single action, well maybe the M19. I own three M66, here is a no dash pinned and recessed I found on GB for $480, remember same gun as that rust bucket M19 you were looking at but in a easier to maintain the finish and repair scratches and dings.
One final comment before you nod off, anything about anything, or question regarding S&W revolvers has already been asked and answered by very knowledgeable group of folks that are caring and very generous with their time. In spite of the option to ask on a new thread go to the top right corner under SEARCH and enter your question in the GOOGLE search option and 9 out 10 times you will find everything you need and more. Buying locally is always best but unless it's the perfect deal to fit your needs and wallet can be limiting. Here's the M66 I spoke of. Good Luck
SMITH & WESSON MODEL 19-5 .357 MAGNUM REVOLVER GI#: 100247613
This is the comparison I wanted you to make. I know it is not a dash 3
