Springfield 1884: should I buy it?

[ShaveTail]

Today at a local show I found a guy selling an 1884 model trapdoor. The gun was in fair shape, looked to have the original metal finish, but the stock looked to be redone (but at least it wasn't varnished). No cleaning rod and seemed to have some pitting around the lock. He was asking $550, could probably get him down to $500. What do you guys think, is it worth it?

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[AKA Hugh Uno]

if the lock clicks normally, things are otherwise tight, and the bore is VG+ or better (some shine and strong rifling), 500 isn't a terrible price for a shooter.

[nedclampet]

That is a decent buy all considered.You will be able to get a cleaning rod for a $100.00 or less. Don't worry about the pitting that just goes with the territory. If it has a good bore buy it and enjoy the fun you will have shooting it.

[musketshooter]

Take a look on Gunbroker for the current values of TD rifles. There are many on there and you should be able to find one that is similar to the one you are looking at. Watch it and see where it ends. Looking at actual selling prices is the only way to determine the value of firearms.