New Collector, got a lead on a 929

[woodstock]

Hello All! I'm new to H&R firearms but have managed to obtain 4 so far and I absolutely love them! The first time a friend's Dad showed me his mint 999, I had to have one!

A local dealer has a 929 with slab sided barrel in 85% to 90% condition. He said he still had the box somewhere. Assuming he does, is $200 too much to pay? He's trying to tell me that the slab sided barrel is really rare but it feels like he's just bs'ing me.

Here's a picture of my 3rd model 999, serial number AR15**** (1977). Thanks!

[32 Magnum]

Woodstock,
The 2nd Variation 929s made in 1958-59, had the "slab sided barrel" - they are scarce but not really rare. 
In that condition, if the dealer expects $200, IMHO he better have the box in hand and maybe a brick of .22s to close the deal. 
The 929 is becoming somewhat collectible - but is still purchased mainly as a shooter.  Nice guns, and reasonably accurate - I've got a couple.

[woodstock]

Ok, that's good information. how many variations were there? Did they do one with a safety transfer bar or was this model discontinued before that became available? My plan is to go over today or tomorrow to check it out a little more closely. I figure if he deals a little bit then there is no harm picking this one up for some plinking fun with the 999. My son won't let me get my hands on the 999 because he loves it so much. I was messing with him last week saying I sold it and he almost broke into tears. Boy I felt bad for being so mean! Thanks!

[32 Magnum]

Woodstock,
There is a 1st Model 1957 to 73, with about 4 variations - then the 2nd Model mid 1973-1986 equipped with the transfer bar ignition/safety system.

[woodstock]

Well I got a real close look at the pistol in question and I was dissapointed. The rear sight adjustment screw was all buggered up as well as the cylinder crane screw. There was a few spots of rust/corrosion and suddenly the dealer could not find the box. The grips seemed to be from a different model because there was two screws per side and the top one was held in place by glue or tape or something. I probably would go for it still as it seems to function fine but the guy there would only budge to $180. Oh well, the search continues. The Ohio Gun Collectors association meeting will be coming up this spring and I usaully see several nicer H&R pistols there.

[32 Magnum]

Woodstock,
There are a LOT of much better condition 929s out there.  You should be able to get one in 90%+ condition for $180.  The one you describe sounds like a doggie - not worth anything near what he wanted.  Let it go!

[woodstock]

Absolutely! I will keep on looking. I'd still consider this pistol if the dealer was willing to go real low in the price to offset the cost of some replacement screws and grips. I guess I could overlook the finish too and use it as a beater if the price was right. I will keep everyone posted when I find one worth sharing. Thanks!

[nova71]

My local gunsmith had a real nice one with a 4" barrel (not a slab side though) it went home with me for $165. they had checked it out and tuned it according to them and it shoots like a new one. I wish I could find a 999 in this condition 

[32 Magnum]

Nova,
Persistence paid off.  Congrats!  There are quite a few Double Action Sportsman Model 999s and ealier showing up in the market - you should have no real problem finding one.  Starting RETAIL prices are about double what you paid for the 929, but IMHO, you get a lot more gun with the Sportsman.  Thanks for thanking.

[nova71]

yeah, I goofed big time when I first started looking for a 999. found one NIB for $350, I thought it was too high so I didn't buy it, now i find that was a real buy. 20-20 hind sight 

[Old Fart]

That's half the fun. We've all been bit by that gremlin.

[woodstock]

I searched the better part of a year until I found my 999 in the condition I wanted. An out of state dealer had it so I had to deal with FFL transfers but it was worth the wait. Now it seems like I see at least a couple at every gun show I go to. Go figure! Now I'm on to the 929. The search is half the fun!

[32 Magnum]

The HUNT is the game!  or is it the other way around?  Doesn't matter - enjoy the "HUNT".

[nova71]

woodstock, beautiful gun, hope I can find one as nice.
   
 there 's a 929 on GunBroker now.6' barrel looks new has the box . it's popular, has 16 bids and is at $205... I can remember when they were $40

[c1skout]

I was in a local (W. PA) gun shop yesterday and saw 2 929's and a 732. I didn't pick them up to look at but they looked decent through the case. I think they all had $175 tags. Let me know if you want any info on the shop.

[woodstock]

Sure I'd be interested in what gun shop those were in. I am planning a trip to Pittsburg over the next couple of weeks so maybe I could swing by on the way home.

[c1skout]

 I sent you a PM, woodstock.