[txgolfer45]

I'm looking to get my first .22 rifle. Most likely a bolt action. I've seen the threads suggesting a CZ 452, Marlin 81ts and several others. Should I steer clear of used .22 rifles? If not, what should I look out for in a used rifle besides rust? I'm looking to spend around $200 or less.

Should I stick with a bolt action or think about some of the semiautos? I'll probably start out with the iron sights but eventually get a scope for it.

Thanks,
Scott

[Engineer]

You should be able to pick up a CZ-452 Trainer for $200 or just a hair under. For your first rifle, you might as well get a new one - and you'll have the satisfaction of breaking it in and knowing that it was yours from the beginning. Most likely, there won't be significant price differences between a used and new 452. If you get the 452, you can always get Brookie's spring kit to tune up the trigger for a couple bucks.

[4v50 Gary]

If it checks out, why not used?

[Engineer]

Mostly sentimental, I guess. When I bought my first rimfire rifle, centerfire pistol, etc. I wanted something that was "mine" from the beginning. Also, rimfire rifles tend to get shot alot and sometimes the greatest care isn't taken when cleaning the barrel as most people only spring for the $10 aluminum/steel rod cleaning kit set with their $150-$200 rifle.

[DMK]

I've got like 6 .22 rifles and none were new. IMO, some of the older models are much nicer than the new ones with some notable exceptions.

You can get a used BRNO #1 from J&G sales (http://catalog.jgsales.com/?itemnumber=15-00) for $140 + s/h & transfer(unless you've got a C&R).

It's rev 1 of the CZ-452 from back in the 50s. I've got one of the older ones from them for C&R eligibility and it's a really nice shooter. It's not new by any means of course.
http://www.jgsales.com/Brno1sm.gif

[txgolfer45]

Went to the local gun show today. No CZ-452's at all. In fact, very few .22 rifles. Mostly various caliber of hunting rifles as deer season is around the corner. Will check out Bass Pro Shops, Academy Sports and Wally World too.

Scott

[txgolfer45]

Also, with .22 rifles, is it worth paying extra for a SS barrel? Does the SS barrel aid in accuracy?

Scott

[CB900F]

TXgolfer45;

For $200 you should be able to get a Savage MKII .22 bolt gun in either left or right hand action & be able to put a decent .22 scope on it.

900F

[Tropical Z]

Personally im not a fan of used .22lr's even if it does appear OK.Im not gonna buy a rifle that might have 52,000 rounds through it just to save $50.00!

[YodaVader]

Used is ok especially if you know the buyer and the history of the rifle. I was kind of in the same boat last year - I had around $200 to spend I went out and bought a NEW CZ 452 Special for $189. Compeletely surprised by the accuracy! This was not my first 22 rifle by any means - but for the price paid and accuracy obtainable it is the best deal I have encountered in a long while!