Buying first revolver/ Diamondback Price check

[zplug123]

Hey everyone, this is my first post on THR. So far this forum's got lots of info I was unaware of, glad to be here. So moving on~

I'm currently in the mood for a six-gun, use semi-automatics all the time but need something for high-end target practice, and someone's approached me with a Diamondback 4' barrel in 22LR. Excellent condition, everything checks out mechanically, he wants ten Benjamins...sound reasonable?

He's also had it on Gunbroker awhile back, here's a link.

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.asp?Item=97539962

 

[dfariswheel]

That's high.

First, the gun is missing the factory original grips, and there's no original box or papers.

While the gun looks in great shape, $1000. is still high for a 4" in my opinion.

 

[The Lone Haranguer]

Define "reasonable." But, that is about what they are asking for them around here.

 

[Starter52]

I agree with Dr. D that $1K is too much for that Diamondback. $600-$700 is a lot more reasonable IMO.

You might consider a S&W Model 18 revolver if the Diamondback doesn't pan out.

 

[zplug123]

I've thought about the S&Ws, but somehow that Python-styled revolver really talks to me. As for price, I've only seen these near the 900 mark, so I'm really considering layaway for the first time...

 

[SouthpawShootr]

If it's absolutely pristine. Not a scratch. And with a pristine box and papers. Then maybe. But these don't command the sort of prices you see on Pythons. They're nice, fine guns but not Colt's best effort. I would think a really nice one would top out at around $800 or so. I've been interested in getting a .38 Diamondback for a while, but have yet to find one that satisfies me. My dad just picked up a Python nickel in unfired condition a couple of months ago for $900 (it didn't have a box) but the gun was outstanding and reminded him of one that he foolishly (his words) traded off many years ago.

 

[Murdock]

A local shop (the Old Town Trading Post, Old Town, Maine) has a Diamondback .22 with a 4" barrel, appears to be 100% condition, with box and papers for $1050. A much better deal, IMO, and likely negotiable to some degree. I was going to buy it for my wife (she has a 4" .38 Special Diamondback) but she just gave me that look.

 

[Majic]

Since you are looking for high end target practice then forget the Diamondback and look for one of Colt's Officer's Models. While the Diamondback is pretty it isn't a target revolver. The Officer's Models are true target revolvers that were used by a lot of the top shooters and used to win many matches.