Yep, you're looking for the proverbial diamond in a dog's butt...
Meh.
I find a decent deal probably every third gunshow I go to, and am entertained at all of them.
I found that Colt and the Smith I got in my thread at the last one.
Time before that I found a local guy that makes really nice custom grips. I got 2 different 1911 sets and one for my P238.
two trips before that were busts.
Before that I found a NIB 229 Legion at $200 of MSRP about 6 months after release. Snatched that one.
You have to have realistic expectations, but at there are deals. I think a lot of the internet grumbling is folks remembering what gunshow prices were like in 1992, and being upset. If anything, I think show pricing is pretty consistently decent these days because anyone can pull out a smart phone and hit Armslist, Gunbroker, and Buds to see what market value is while standing there at the table.
I actually got my Arisaka that way. I told the guy that I liked his rifle, but he was about $150 high based on the 4 auctions I showed him. Grumpy dude said "If you don't like my price buy one of those!". Isaid OK and hit "Buy it Now" on GB standing in front of his table. Dude's face was priceless.
But the point is, with a little research, and a little patience I routinely find good deals on guns and gun parts. No Memorabilia, and only enough Jerky to munch on while I wander around.