I got to hold a 3" DAO model in the local big-box sporting goods store, price was about $1150 out the door. I really liked it though, so I started looking around because I knew their prices are high. Sadly, while high they aren't all that much higher. Someone local has one just like it with only a few rounds thru it and is asking $900.
On a whim I checked the AAFES website, and they have the 2" and 3" DASA models priced at $1K out the door. Well, I'll pay the extra $100 to get one new vs used (plus I prefer the hammer), so I put a 3" in the cart and let it stew there for a few days while I mulled it over. On Saturday I decided to move, and started the check-out. Well, it will let you put one in the cart but will not let you check out. Called customer service and they were stumped, but believe it's covid related and they're not doing ship-to-store on firearms.
On Monday I called the gun counter over at Ft Lewis and spoke to a guy there. He'd never heard of this no-guns policy, in fact had just received a web order in that morning. He said he's look into it and call me back. A few hours later he called back and said he could order one for me- which one do you want? So I told him and he said he'd order it, and it should be in this week some time. I'm waiting on that call right now.
The best part is he's ballparking $800 out the door, $200 less than the website and $100 less than the used DAO.
I've already ordered the Kimber speed-loaders and some snap-caps for it. The sad part is I don't own a .357 so I have zero ammo in that caliber, and only 100 rounds of .38Special, and online is either wiped out or absurdly priced. Thus, I'm accepting ammo donations from those of you that can spare a box or two.
I'll post up some pics when I go visit and pay for it, and some better ones when I finally bring it home.
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