Question on FA 83 marking

[phil0071]

Just found this board and thought it would help me with my FA addiction. I just purchased via auction a FA 83 Premier grade 454 NIB. It certainly appears to be the Premier, but is not marked as such. There is no marking on the side other than some patent numbers. I seem to recall that at one point they were not marked? Any help is appreciated.

[benny123]

You may recognize my moniker. You got a steal! I placed the bid under yours not because I needed it but because the lack of bidding was both an insult to the value of a FA and, imo, would ultimately decrease the value of my existing FA's.
 
The listing did say "NIB" , which I thought was unusual based on the selling circumstances. It should say "Premier" on the side. I know a long time ago there wasn't the Premier/Field grade distinction, but that shouldn't pertain.
 
One option is to get the alphanum. symbol off the bottom and call FA and ask 'em about it.
 
If you don't mind let us know about the gun and Leupold condition once received.
 

[phil0071]

Thanks for the info. I didnt really "need" it but could not pass up what I conceived to be a bargain.I looked at the pics and it did not show a grade marking on either side. Im curious if it will come with the box as noted in the description. I will let you know when I get it. Thanks again.

[Ken ONeill]

Before the Field Grade was introduced about 1986, there was no need to mark Premier Grade, because that's the only "grade" there was. Therefore, if it's original, it's a "Premier Grade". It may also have the replaceable forcing cone bushing, identified by having a small set screw on the right side near the forcing cone. FA no longer offers that forcing cone replacement, however.

[phil0071]

I sent a email to FA with the serial number and they responded that the gun was made in June of 1989. I expect to get it next week sometime. I looked at the pics from the auction site and did not see a grade marking. The serial number does have a D prefix.

[benny123]

Buyer beware, I guess. The pictures were taken at a such a distance that you couldn't see specifc markings. Regardless, you got a deal--it's just unnerving that they could have indicated it was a used gun and not new. Knowing that, I probably would have still kept my bid of 9, but I would have been a little peeved when it arrived.
 
Phil, I have been shooting the 500 for the most part, if you're a reloader and would like some 454 brass, send me a message once you get it. Just pay for shipping and I'll send you enough to get by.

[phil0071]

Thanks! When I talked to the auction house they said it was NIB. Guess I will see when it arrives. I will be shocked if it is NIB. I will let you know. Thanks for the offer on the brass. I dont reload as of yet but may have to start if I want to shoot it much. What part of the country are you in?