1979 2nd Model Dragoon
A few weeks ago I purchased an Armi San Marco 2nd Model Dragoon. The date stamp on it indicates it was made in '79. I also have a Confederate Navy made by Pietta.
As far as the quality of the ASM it is as good or better than the Pietta. I've heard of burrs and rough spots on the Italian pistols but the only flaws that I have found on either is inside of the grip strap and trigger frame. They were not polished in those areas but it has no effect on the guns operation. The gun frames themselves on both appear to be very well made.
I will suggest that if you're buying a "used" version of an ASM (or any gun), pull it down to the guts and look for rust. This includes pulling the trigger assembly, cylinder block and hammer out for inspection of the "inside" of the frame.
I did not do this when I purchased the Dragoon and I got lucky. I pulled it apart after sending 50 or so rounds down the barrel because I wasn't happy with the trigger feel. A good cleaning cured the problem.
In the case of buying a "used" gun either from a pawn shop, gun shop or whatever, if you find minor flaws such as it needs a good cleaning, you can use this to get the price down. If the gun shop is too lazy to clean a used gun before they put it in the case, they might wind up paying the new owner to do it, if you know what I mean.
Have fun and I wouldn't hesitate to buy an ASM.
Joe