Armscor M200 revolver...looks like a Colt...any info/experience

[kmrcstintn]

I was in my local Gander Mountain and spotted a pair of inexpensive revolvers that looked like Colts with a cheaper blued/parkerized finish...

they were in the 'used' section, yet looked brand new, and were priced at $199.99; 4" barrel with underlug, fixed sights, plastic grips, and resembled Colt revolvers...labeled as Armscor from the Phillipines

I know that they are not truly 'Colts'...IIRC...Armscor makes 1911's on original Colt machinery and that the quality of their products is 'very good'...

I'm considering one for moderate use: range, drawer, and beater (so I can reduce wear and tear on my S&W 19)

What is your opinion/experience with Armscor revolvers?

 

[Shear_stress]

Do a search for the Armscor 206. I think one or two folks on this board have had decent luck with them.

On the other hand, two bills will also buy you a nice, used S&W Model 10. There's no reason to take a chance on a revolver you know little about.

 

[kmrcstintn]

I already have a S&W 19 that was a bit hard to find...I frequent @ 6 shops in my area and I haven't come across a S&W 10; I don't wish to buy a 'new' Model 10 for @ $500 just to have another S&W...any used S&W K-frame wheelies have become rare in my neck of the woods :banghead:

 

[Shear_stress]

any used S&W K-frame wheelies have become rare in my neck of the woods

Unfortunately, they don't grow on trees around here either. I usually shop online through Gunbroker. Lots of reasonably price M10s on there at any time.

 

[Harry Paget Flashman]

I read this thread and got interested. There wasn't a lot of info on the Armscor Model 200 available and I already had a S&W Model 10 and 4 other .38's, so I didn't really need one. I bought one anyway. Got it from Centerfire Systems online. It was listed for $159. Intriguing, had to know what kind of 4" .38SPCL revolver you get for that amount of money. With shipping/handling($20 on the vendor's end) and the FFL/call-in fee($30 on this end.) it ended up costing $209, but saved the Florida sales tax (7½%).
So it's about the same as what kmrcstintn listed it for.

I ordered it on election day to cheer myself up and Centerfire Systems shipped it via USPS. It arrive 2 days later. Pretty prompt service so I have to give them a thumbs up.

It's no Smith but I have to say that it's pretty nice for the price. The finish is a deep black, non-reflective "blue". It has finger groove grips that resemble Zytel. It is comfortable in my hand...a good fit for me. It appears to be solid. No rattles when you shake it. Nice crisp DA trigger...a little light in single action though. Has fixed sites, seems to point well. The revolver strikes me as being flat and narrow, almost sleek. It came with a hard plastic, padded case and gun lock. I haven't shot it yet so the jury is still out. I really want to like this gun. I do like it.

I have really been meaning to buy a digital camera but some gun purchase always seems to take priority. Sorry, no pix.

 

[Harry Paget Flashman]

I took the Model 200 Armscor .38 to the range today, along with a S&W Model 10 and an Astra NC-6. Of the three .38's I like the Model 200 best. It shot well, has a comfortable grip and is pleasing to the eye. For $159, it is mighty fine.

 

[kmrcstintn]

Thanks Harry...I needed some honest feedback; I put one on layaway and have a few months before I am able to get it...more pressing bills get priority right now! I like Colt revolvers, but with them out of production, I don't like the idea of a shooter costing so much $$$. The Armscor seems like a good alternative...an inexpensive beater Colt that I don't feel guilty about shooting and using hard.

 

[aaronrkelly]

I recently bought a Smith and Wesson model 10 from Century Arms.

Cost was $190 total (that was with shipping).

The finish is worn but the mechanics are A-.....lockup is great as is the timing. Barrel is far better machines and in nicer shape then my new Taurus 605 (which doesnt impress me).

Heres a picture of the old warhorse - serial number puts it at 1965.