I should invest in a camera. Not sure the dealer would like that though.
It's not purple. It was light enough grey I almost thought it was blue that had been buffed too much. But really I think it's then phosphating.
When I first saw it in the rack my expectation was that it'd be blued.
I didn't see anything that looked too "cut corner-ish" really, other than the finish. I didn't tear into it to look as serial numbers and whatnot. Was really just in too pick up another gun that was coming off the waiting period.
But wondering if I should ignore the Bubba-goo and grab it.
My M48 was a last year purchase at a Big 5. I did pay about $300 for it. It was missing sight hood and the accessories. Really wanted the matching bayonnete. But with the "frenzy" going on and that it has sat there for almost a year that I knew of... I said, "What the heck, give me it." That's an overall great condition gun, for sure though.
The frenzy thing really does seem to have cleared the shelves of the Mosins, Vz 24's, M48's etc. I.e. the remain stuff that was less popular when all started. But I was happed to get an M48 not the A or B... I like forged parts.