Custom Delta Elite Value

[drannor]

I came across a customized Delta Elite today and was hoping for some feedback on it's value. Asking price was $800.

I'm not incredibly familiar with the delta elites so bear with me:
Blued frame and slide both marked delta elite (slide had DE serial prefix)
Slide stamped government model
Compensated barsto match barrel (Squared front compensator type)
Customized by ED Brown engraved on front right of slide in nice script
Chrome extended manual safety
Aftermarket beavertail thumb safety
Evidence of magwell work (opened up, looked a little rough)
Good front strap and front of trigger guard checkering
Adjustable target rear sight
Trigger was solid, looked stock, felt worked on

The pistol was tight, but well used and hadn't been cleaned. I'm not sure how to describe the compensated barrel, I've seen a number of 1911's with this style of compensator with it looks almost like an extended slide. The end of the barrel is squared off to match the profile of the slide.

I assume the "Customized by Ed Brown" means that this weapon passed through their shop at some point. Do they fit barsto barrels and such?

Thanks!

 

[HighVelocity]

Generally, used Delta's bring a pretty good price. As for the customization of it though, it's like a hotrod, you'll never get back what you put into it.
I'd say it's worth whatever you're willing to pay. If you like the mods that have been done, great. If not, then it's worth less than it would be if it were stock.
Try searching gunbroker.com and see what other Delta's are bringing. Also check out 10mmtalk.com. There's always somebody buying or selling a Delta on that forum.

-Gary

 

[stans]

Check the gun closely for signs of abuse, compensators can mean a hobbyist or enthusiast that just wanted a custom gun, or it could be an IPSC/USPSA shooter that used it hard and heavy in competition, or someone who needed a compensator to help him control his ultra hot, beyond SAAMI spec, darned near proof load ammo. The rough magwell could be a Bubba special or it could be dinged from hundereds or thousands of warp speed mag changes in IPSC/USPSA competition.