RC P38 AC43 value as of 12/09?

[Günter]

I never owned a P38 and considering puchasing a shooter grade one for Christmas. I know the value of these RC stuff has little value compared to a mint collectable example but I'm looking for somthing best for my current meager holiday spending budget.

I was offered a Russian Capture P38 made by Walther in 1943. I have only seen it in person and din't have a camera with me at the time, so Ill try to describe the condition in the best of my ability:

-All parts match the pistol

-It has a C+ grade bore with some pitting
Slide and frame is in good condition (A-) with no visable pitting but it has been reblued and has the distinctive "x" mark for Russian Capture and the attrocious import stamp in the back of the frame, below the hammer where the thumb rests

Grips are original wwii black bakelite, with some visable wear on it, B+

Comes with x1 Walther proof marked magazine in great condition, A



How much do you guys think this pistol is worth buying at what price range in today's market value.

Thanks in Advance!

[leondes]

Generally, I would say in the $450 to $500 range. As you already know, it will likely never have any collector value so it's just worth a shooter price.

Regards, Leon

[Lon]

The price of $500 as Leon stated sounds about right. I would also make sure the action is tight, any doubt have a gun smith check it out.

I also was looking for a shooter and bought an ac 44 at auction. Turns out it was mint and unfired except for factory testing. Of course I couldn't shoot a pistol this nice, so I now have two, one for the safe, one for the range.

They do make excellent shooters, very accurate and one of the best looking weapons on the planet. Take your time and get a nice one!

[rajko84]

Where would be a good place to buy a p38 shooter. I looked for one for a while but everybody I talked to they were asking $900 for redone Russian captured guns. Any help would be appreciated.
Regards Rajko

[BMWR71]

Sarco has some for around $450 and up.

[rajko84]

What is their Internet adress? I collect mainly daggers so I am not familiar with those sites. Thank you Rajko

[Günter]

I bought the P38 just now, the asking price was $450 + CA tax and DROS, which seems like a good/decent price from the opinions you guys replied.

Thanks for all of your replies regarding market value, it helped me be confident that I was getting a pretty good deal.

Though it may be RC, I plan to take good care of it just like the rest of my collection once it is in my hands. Might post pics once I am allowed to pick it up...

Thanks alot!