[Kalrog]

At the top of the revolver section, there is a floating thread that describes a very good, basic procedure for making sure that a used (or new) revolver is in relatively good working order. Is there something similar for semi-autos that would be a good basic starting point for checking out guns in pawn shops and at gun shows, or even those NIB ones just to make sure that you aren't getting a dud that will have to go back to the factory after its first range session?

And if so, could we get a bump or sticky on it?

[Ebbtide]

Great idea, but who wants to write it?

[1911Tuner]

I can write up some guidelines for 1911's. Some of it will pertain
to other designs, but I'm not 100% familiar with the Glocks, Sigs,
and H&K's, since the 1911 has been my specialty, and we don't see
too many of'em in my neck of the woods anyway.

Anybody second the motion?

Standin' by....
Tuner

[Morgan]

If it has a logo on it that says "HK" then it is definitely good.
If it says "SIG" or "GLOCK" or "Beretta" or "S&W" then it's probably good.
If it says "COLT'S" (or any such clone) or "Browning" then go to 1911forum.com for advice.

[Kalrog]

Well, I would be happy to write it if I had the knowledge. That is why I want one written - so I know :D

Looking forward to whatever info we get here!

[9x19]

Here's my short version:

Buying Used Pistols:

In addition to looking down the bore to make sure it's not dark and murky, look at the muzzle and feed ramp areas for any burrs, or roughness.

Check the slide/bolt face for roughness and the extractor for burrs.

Cock the gun and put it on "safe". Pull the trigger with moderate pressure then take your finger off the trigger and release the safety. If the firing pin drops, it will need work to make it safe. *Ask the owner if you can dry-fire his gun before doing the next test.* With the gun cocked, pull the trigger to drop the firing pin, and hold it back while you rack the slide again to re-cock the pistol. Release the trigger and pull it again. You should hear the firing pin drop, if not the disconnector is not functioning correctly.

Check that the magazine locks in place easily. If it has a last shot hold open feature, test it by racking the slide with an empty magazine in place.

Remove the magazine and look closely at it's top to be sure the feed lips (the MAJOR source of feeding problems) don't show any signs of "adjusting". They should be smooth and evenly spaced.

Look at the screws and sights, any buggering here may be a bad sign of kitchen table 'smithing by the less than capable. Not always the case, but if you have another option for the model you're looking at...

[10-Ring]

I've had great luck so far in my ventures in gun buying. The only real lemon I bought was a new gun from a dealer. For me, as long as it's not overly worn out, at a decent price to condition ratio, and from a reputable company, I usually take the chance on them.

[ojh]

There was an article in Guns & Ammo 2000 Annual, "How To Buy A Used Handgun" by Rober T. Shimek. It covers both revolvers and autos.