For air gun enthusiasts and collectors, understanding the historical pricing of classic models provides valuable context. Many collectors wonder what was the price of a Crosman 1377 in 1979 when this iconic American air pistol was gaining popularity. Let's explore this topic in detail with historically accurate information.
The Crosman 1377: A Brief Introduction
The Crosman 1377 American Classic is a pump pneumatic air pistol that has remained popular since its introduction in the 1970s.
Origin and Manufacturing History
The Crosman Corporation introduced this model as a versatile, accurate air pistol that quickly became a favorite among shooters.
Original Retail Pricing: What Was the Price of a Crosman 1377 in 1979
According to historical catalogs and advertisements, what was the price of a Crosman 1377 in 1979 falls into a specific range.
Standard Model Pricing
The base model Crosman 1377 American Classic in 1979 retailed for approximately:
- $29.95 to $34.95 depending on the retailer and location
Package Deals and Accessories
Some retailers offered package deals including:
- Basic pistol with included pellets
- Deluxe packages with holsters and additional accessories
Adjusting for Inflation: Understanding 1979 Pricing in Today's Dollars
To truly understand what was the price of a Crosman 1377 in 1979 in context, we need to adjust for inflation.
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Inflation Calculator Methods
Using standard inflation calculators:
| Year | Original Price | Equivalent Value (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| 1979 | $29.95 | Approximately $130.00 |
| 1979 | $34.95 | Approximately $150.00 |
Regional Price Variations in 1979
Geographic Pricing Differences
When examining what was the price of a Crosman 1377 in 1979, we find regional variations:
- East Coast retailers typically charged premium prices
- Midwest distributors often offered more competitive pricing
- Mail-order catalogs provided alternative purchasing options
Comparison to Other Air Pistols of the Era
Competitive Market Positioning
Understanding what was the price of a Crosman 1377 in 1979 requires comparing it to competitors:
- Daisy air pistols typically sold for $18-25
- Benjamin air pistols commanded premium prices of $35-45
- Imported European models ranged from $40-80
Retailer Variations in 1979 Pricing
Major Retailer Pricing
Different stores had varying prices for the Crosman 1377:
- Sporting goods specialty stores: Often charged full MSRP
- Department stores: Occasionally offered sales and promotions
- Catalog retailers: Competitive pricing but added shipping costs
Collecting Vintage Crosman 1377 Models
Value Appreciation Over Time
Original 1979 models in mint condition have appreciated significantly:
- Unopened in original packaging: Can fetch $200-300
- Excellent used condition: Typically sells for $100-150
- Working condition with wear: Generally valued at $75-100
Features That Affected 1979 Pricing
Standard Features of the 1979 Model
The 1979 Crosman 1377 included:
- Multi-pump pneumatic design
- Rifled steel barrel
- Adjustable rear sight
- Synthetic grips
Optional Accessories and Their Costs
Additional items that could increase the base price:
- Custom wooden grips: +$8-12
- Shoulder stock attachment: +$15-20
- Pellet pouch and cleaning kit: +$5-10
Documentation Sources for Historical Pricing
Verified Price References
When researching what was the price of a Crosman 1377 in 1979, these sources provide reliable information:
- Original Crosman catalogs from 1979
- Sporting goods advertisements in newspapers
- Consumer price guides from the period
- Collector documentation and price lists
Frequently Asked Questions
Was the Crosman 1377 considered expensive in 1979?
No, it was positioned as a mid-range air pistol, offering good value for its performance capabilities compared to competitors.
Did the price vary throughout 1979?
Yes, there were modest price increases during the year due to inflation, which was particularly high during this period.
Were there any special edition 1377 models in 1979 that cost more?
No special editions were officially released in 1979, though dealer customizations might have commanded premium prices.
Conclusion
When answering what was the price of a Crosman 1377 in 1979, we can confidently place the retail price between $29.95 and $34.95. This represented a significant but reasonable investment for a quality air pistol at the time, equivalent to about $130-150 in today's money.
For collectors and enthusiasts, understanding this historical pricing provides valuable context for appreciating both the affordability and quality that made the Crosman 1377 such an enduring success. Whether you're evaluating a vintage purchase or simply appreciating air gun history, this pricing information helps establish the economic context of this classic American air pistol during the late 1970s.