Buying a used gun

[unclemark]

Uncle's got a few gun he's ready to part with since he doesn't shoot them anymore. I'm interested but I wanna make sure I'm well-informed. What should I check out mechanically and cosmetically?

 

[Hitman01]

I would check the timing on revolvers, and on semi-autos, I look at the slide rails. I do not care about scratches but I do care about how the inside looks.

 

[Greyjoy]

Family deals are often the best, no doubt but I still go over them with a fine-tooth comb, just like any other gun. I check the lockup, the bore, all the usual wear points. If it passes all those, you're usually in pretty good shape.

 

[Alexx]

I bought a used revolver once that looked perfect externally but the timing was slightly off when I checked it more closely. It still fired but it taught me to always test function slowly and check lockup and cylinder play before committing.

 

[Alan]

Good question! Used guns can be great if you check them carefully. Look for clean rifling, tight lockup, smooth action and no cracks or pitting, plus make sure safeties and controls function properly before buying.