First luger

[jetteraf]

I'm thinking about getting my first Luger again (It's been floating around in the back of my mind for more than 3 years). I have a basic understanding of the different eras/varients. What I'm primarily looking for right now is a shooter- I think I'd like to collect imperial pieces, but want to start with a gun I can shoot and not worry about authenticity or breaking a part.

I'm a bit confused by prices. I was thinking $400-$500 was fair for a non-collector's piece but was told elsewhere that $600 is about the lowest I could expect to pay. The FAQ here says they're valued at $350-$500. I live in Wyoming, and the dealers here want $700 and up for some rough pieces, since just finding a Luger here is tough. I've contacted a few online retailers and they do seem to start at around $600. What are the "real world" prices you guys are seeing? Where do you think I should go to get my first gun?

Any and all advice on this question, and anything else you think I should know would be much appreciated. Also see my post on the WTB forum if you're interested. Sorry for the long post, thanks for your time.