Trying to decide between a FA 83 Field Grade with SSK TSOB three rings and Leupold M8-2X and a FA 83 Premier Grade. Both used 7.5 inch 454 Casull. Premier frame and grip pristine, but barrel a bit scratched up. Premier cylinder cleaner than Field. Field grade may have been shot mostly with 45 Colt based on cylinder residue. Field grade has a serial number like DBH9xx, while the Premier has something like D190xxx--more numbers than letters. So, I don't know if there is any vintage difference.
The Premier grade is $400 more expensive than the Field grade. Seems like a no-brainer, but I don't know if I want to choose the wrong 'basis' for future upgrades. The Field grade bead blast finish would be harder to maintain than the polished Premier, I suppose, as you can't easily touch up the bead blasting. Micarta grips would run $237 plus expensive shipping both ways (unless just the grip frame could be sent back?) This eats up most of the price difference, but you still get the scope and mount and rings on the Field grade.
Eyesight is middle-aged, and I have every intention of using a scope to deer hunt in Ohio up to a reasonable distance. Can't see how I can use the fixed sights which would block most of the deer body at that distance.
Thanks for reading this lengthy post--and for your advice.
