My local store has both at the same price ($1399) also a used elite for $100 less than the new expert. Unfortunately, I didnt get to examine the used elite so I know nothing about it.

Which would you buy? Is that price standard for these pistols (and worth it)?

I bought one of the first batches of Expert 45 and I just purchased the Elite in the last week. My Expert has thousands of thousands of rounds throught it and has been flawless.

You will find that both are capable of fantastic accuracy. In fact.. when in the groove... I can shoot the Expert out to 100 - 125 yards with equal or better accuracy as those guys with their vintage lever actions. (You know those guys that play Cowboy...)

I guess my vote would be new over used and I would say Expert.

This is going to be a difficult decision!

bought an 'hk demo' expert .45, and i don't regret it one bit.  most accurate-shooting pistol i own.  i shoot it better than most revolvers.

looked at the elites, but thought they were too front-heavy.  wouldn't mind having one for the collection, but it probably isn't much of a perfomance enhancer over the expert.

damn neat case the elite comes in, though :)