[scubasteve]

Since a large majority of the gun owners I know (and I've read this several times online) say they would only sell a gun if they were having constant problems with it, I always feel weary about buying used.

Do others feel the same as me?

[Justin]

Unlike practically any other modern durable good, firearms do not have built in obsolescence. Besides, plenty of people sell guns for reasons other than maxing out the lemonometer.

[ZeroX]

I'd wouldn't mind buying used as long as I'm fairly sure it won't blow up in my hand or something.

[Vern Humphrey]

I've bought a lot of guns used -- and I think most people on this echo have, too.

Among my used guns are:

A Colt Model 357, which I carried on my first tour in Viet Nam. It served me well.

A Ruger Blackhawk, in .45 Colt.

A Colt New Service, in .45 Colt.

An Argentine M1927 (a M1911A1 made on Colt machinery, under Colt supervision in Argentina.) For years, it was my carry gun, and right now wears a Colt Service Ace conversion kit -- also used.

A custom '03 Springfiled in .35 Brown-Whelen. Bigfoot Wallace is my elk rifle.

A pre-64 Winchester Model 70 in .30-06.

A Colt Model 1849 cap-and-ball revolver (they don't make them anymore) ;)

A couple of 03A3 Springfields.

An M1922 Springfield.

An M1 Garand rifle

A Kimber M82 in .22 Hornet.

A Swedish Mauser

A Canadian M1905 Ross rifle

[bpisler]

My main interest is blued S&W revolvers i don't buy new very often.
I did just buy a new steyr M-9 semi-a uto but all of my revolvers were bought used but not abused.

[BozemanMT]

I've never bought a new handgun. Always used, and most of them at gunshows. Although, upon thinking about it, for some reason all my rifles I've bought new. Don't know why, just seemed to have worked out that way.
The guns always worked, I read all the checkout stuff. I didn't buy anything abused and I went home cleaned it and shot them. Either I"m very lucky or I'm just a charming fellow and no one cheats me.:cool:

I would have no hesitation in buying used again.

[Rinspeed]

I don't have a problem at all with used handguns in fact most of the time I prefer to save the extra $100 - $200. You just have to be careful that they have not been abused.

Rinspeed

[trubluedog]

The money I save buying used guns sure helps with the ammo costs. Actually I have only bought two new guns, a Taurus 605 that wouldn't hit the barn door from inside and a CZ 40b that is possibly the best firearm I have EVER had.

[DMK]

Most of my guns were used. I've had a few with minor issues, mostly due to improper maintenance or garbage magazines, but (knock on wood) I've never got stuck with a bad gun yet.

[Standing Wolf]

Buying a used gun, like buying a new gun, is a crap shoot.

[GunGeek]

My Kel Tek P-3AT is the only new pistol I ever bought, and simply they are cheap to begin with, plus I wanted one bad and they were to new to have used ones on the market. Oh I bought a Springfield Micro new too, wasn't happy with it and sold it later, actually the only gun I ever wasn't happy with and sold was one I bought new.

Two of my used guns had to go in for small repairs right after purchase, but both had lifetime warrentys and worked fine after that. I have bought a few (like the buckmark I picked up today) that were so filthy I'm sure the owner had problems, I cleaned them up and all worked fine in the past, hopefully my luck will hold out on the buckmark too.

I do tend to look for used guns with low round counts, a few had under 500 rounds through them, one had 50, and one was never fired. I feel some people sell a new gun soon after buying it thinking it has problems when it hasen't been broke in yet, my Walther P99 was a nightmare the first 100-150 rounds I shot.... but then it smoothed right out and has been flawless for over 1000 rounds since then, the previous owner fired one box of 50 rounds through it and labeled it as trouble.

Rifles/shotguns I have more new, just worked out that way.

[russlate]

New guns today are too likely to have internal gun locks which to me are an utter abomination.

In addition, from the late '70's through the 80's and 90's QC at many companies was problematic.

Thus today I look for pinned and recessed S&W revolvers, Colts, and pistols made 30+ years before. Many of these are sold after being taken out, shot, then put in a drawer for a few decades.

As a result I'd rather trust an older gun passing my inspection ( and subsequently tested by me ) to work than a brand new gun made with MIM parts and other shortcuts.

[tc300mag1]

I would only buy used if I knew the person/could test the gun/had some way of knowing it worked fine. thats what i voted for so hard to find good priced used guns here usually im better off buying new

[MAClarkWA]

Over the last few years, I have bought a number of both new and used pistols and revolvers and the results I have often found to be surprising. On one occasion the used SA 1911 .45acp functioned measurably better than one that I purchased a few years earlier NIB. As for my Glock, I bought it used, and have never had a single problem with it....ever, same goes for a number of my rifles. I recently purchased a new Kimber 10mm, and am still in the process of breaking it in, so the jury is still out on its reliability, but I have high hopes.
So in retrospect, I have never had a issue with a used gun. When looking for one just do a little research, know what things should look like, and more often than not if it looks good inside, its ok.

[Dienekes]

Probably the majority of mine (past and present) have been used. I have come up short on a couple, principally my own fault--and learned from it. Used milsurps are a gamble--been burned on a couple, but made out like a bandit on a 1996 mfd. Israeli BHP Mk III in great shape--$289 with leather and 2 mags.

I have taken as many hits--if not more--on NIB guns that did not run right. That gets to be a real pain if I have to pay the overnight air to send it back to the factory.

Some guns are generally good bets no matter what due to their quality and durability, and are worthwhile projects.

The joke around here is that some of my best guns cost around $150. (It's true.)

[Black Majik]

I have no problems buying used. The used guns I've bought function like knife thru a smooth melted butter :)

[denfoote]

Out of all my pistols, I believe only 5 of them were purchased new!!!
I have no problem with it!!

[grendelbane]

Buying a used gun is not the same as buying a used car. That story about the little old lady who bought the new model, and only drove it on Sunday is true many times! Plus, guns have the advantage of aging well. If stored in reasonable conditions, those old guns survive quite well.

Used guns can certainly have problems, just like new guns. Most of those problems are usually small, however.

Also, one can rebuild a gun for an insignificant amount of money, compared to a car. New springs are usually a good idea for automatic pistols.

Bottom line is most guns get carried a lot, and shot only a little. There are many good bargains in the used gun world.

[Amish_Bill]

I've only had real problems with three. A NIB Beretta 96d that threw shavings back at me, a Century Garand build that has a work-out op-rod, and a frankenfal. Overall, that's not too bad.

Oh, yeah... I buy most of my stuff used. Just like a car, let someone else pay for the privelege of making the first scratch.

[Harbinger]

Most of my guns are used. No problems yet.

[sm]

I actually prefer the Older Guns myself.
Many have already cited the reasons, in regard to quality of metallurgy, craftsmanship, bluing, no locks, firing pins on hammers, no FP safeties...etc.

[Zeke Menuar]

I only have one gun in my inventory that was bought new. All of the other guns were purchased used. A little bit of research and asking questions on THR will help you make the right decision.

I should note that the only true lemon/POS gun purchase that I have made was a brand new gun.

ZM

[WhoKnowsWho]

Only 11 of my 29 pieces are new. If you don't buy used, you cut out a lot of what you could buy. Some I wouldn't even say are used, just pre-owned! Some of the new stuff I got was simply because I was tired of waiting for a good used deal, and stumbled upon a good new deal.

[71Commander]

90% of the guns that I have bought in my life were used. Never a problem.:)

[Highland Ranger]

Anything I want, I can afford new.

And [donning tin hat] I don't want to find out the hard way that the "NIB" gun I just bought was used in a string of bank robberies.

If it's new, and I bought it as new, there should be no confusion about where the gun was and what it was doing before I had it.

[71Commander]

Anything I want, I can afford new.



What am I missing:confused: I thought the initial question was about reliability issues and not $$$$. I too can afford to buy new but just can't seem to locate that brand new 1903 A3 Springer. Can you offer any help?:fire:

[Amish_Bill]

Reliability of my used guns... With the exceptions noted above, all have been as good, and sometimes better, than from the dealer's shelf. The last several that I consider "good enough to save my skin" have all been pre-loved.

[Ky Larry]

I've never had a problem with a used gun but ANY machine can malfunction. It's possible to get a lemon with any product.
My local gun shop has a used #1 Ruger (.25-06) with a Leuopold Vari-X III
scope for $530 OTD. It looks like a brand new rifle, not a scratch or ding on it. If it's still there Friday, it's coming home with me. :D

[shep854]

I've bought both. Main advantages to me are price and availability of some discontinued models that I am drawn to, not to mention the history of many guns.

For new, it's "just have to have" factor of new models, plus the fun of starting the gun's use out right. To me, there's something about watching the honest wear (NOT abuse) accumulate on the gun that comes from me shooting it. Normal wear is a sign of character.

As for reliability, I've had no problems either way. Both new and used guns have had quirks to be dealt with.

As far as Scubasteve's concern about picking up some else's lemon, understand that avid shooters such as here on THR are a minority. Many people sell guns for financial or personal reasons. Also, many of have to trade to keep our newgunitis in check; the grass is greener, and all that.

FINALLY, one should always have a firearm checked before buying. If I don't trust the seller, I wouldn't buy new or used from them.

[orangeninja]

I buy used and have yet to ever have a problem. I buy quality used stuff. I have had problems with NIB stuff though from Ruger and Glock...go figure.

[Dorrin79]

A good firearm shouldn't 'wear out' under normal usage; hence, I have no reservations about buying one used. Worst case scenario, it may need replacement springs - but in the Internet age, those are only a mouse click and a credit card number away

:)

I have bought several used firearms (and a few military surplus ones, which if anything are really used) and have yet to run in to trouble.

Paradoxically, the only firearm I have had real problems with was NIB.

On the other hand - there are some brands / types of guns I would be more hesitant to buy used, and I always prefer the chance to examine a used firearm before buying it.

[Valkman]

Just since I moved to Vegas last September I've bought 4 used handguns and 3 used rifles and no problems with any of them. 3 of those handguns were bought from members of THR and I have to say this forum is a great place to buy used guns.

[SouthpawShootr]

I have no problem buying a used gun. I have 3 Glocks I bought used (2 were factory refurbs). Probably half of my collection was obtained used. My most recent aquisition is a 624 that has been out of production since the late '80s. You have to have enough experience with the type of firearm to know what your buying and how to identify one in decent shape. Many of the guns I've aquired used, have long been out of production, so new is not an option for these.

[goste]

Most of my handguns, (80%),were purchased used. 20%, were bought new. I have had 4 lemon's, three of them, with new guns. My one used lemon, was a Llama .380.

I tend to agree, with Dorrin79, some brands, I would think twice about buying new, let alone second hand. (Llama). For the most part, I belive second hand firearm's, are a heck of a bargain.

By the way Dorrin79, what part of cen-tex, do you hail from? I'm Bwood-Abilene way.

[faustulus]

Anything I want, I can afford new.

http://daveramsey.com/

[lee n. field]

Depends on who I'm buying from.

Used from a reputable shop -- no problem.

Used from a well vouched for friend of a friend -- no problem.

Anybody else -- CYA. There's a thread right now on CZ Forum from a guy who bought a lemon CZ-100, used from a private party. Turns out to have a damaged chamber, and the seller won't make good.

[ExtremeDooty]

I just bought a used snubby from someone on another board. He bought it for his wife and she didn't like it. I saved about $150, and he's going to let his wife pick out her own guns from now on.

[Highland Ranger]

What am I missing I thought the initial question was about reliability issues and not $$$$.

What you're missing is that I don't think reliability is an issue at all in this particular decision. Whereas gettig your self in legal trouble may be.

Used from a reputable shop -- no problem.

See that's a problem. There's a big stink going on now regarding a "reputable dealer" who apparently took shortcuts with paperwork and such.

Was in an NRA class recently where a bunch of people who did business with this shop (owned by a former LEO I believe) were trying to secure legal consel because they were concerned that they might be legally liable for the illegal transactions.

Saving a few bucks isn't worth the hassle and for those that say that all the best guns were made before 1980 (or whatever year) I say there are many fine new guns today. So I buy new . . . . .

[Nickotym]

Less guns on paper(bought new) means I have only a couple guns when the JBTs come knocking if Kerry gets elected.:) Where is that tinfoil hat smilie?

[Checkman]

I own three M28's - all bought used and all in great condition. I also own several surplus Milspec rifles and a used shotgun. I've made an effort to educate myself on what to look for when buying a used gun - thanks Jim March - and I find them a great bargain.

[sturmruger]

Most of my guns were bought used. I like to save money when I can.

[schromf]

Anything I want, I can afford new.

Let me know when you find a new in the box pre 64 Winchester Model 70 rifle in 270 Winchester.

Or my 1913 model 1911 serial number under 7000.

Or a S&W Registered magnum.


My list goes on quite a while longer, your want's are much simpler than mine.

I buy quality used stuff

My attitude exactly, doesn't mean I don't buy new guns as I purchased three new guns this year, but I also bought 3 very good used guns also.

[cratz2]

I've probably bought 40 or more used guns and I've had one bad one... Compared to two bad brand new guns...

It's still luck of the draw, but I'd gladly take a used quality gun - CZ, Glock, SIG, Beretta etc - over a lower priced new gun.

[patentnonsense]

Should've had a choice for "PREFER to buy used!"
I'll buy new (and have, several times) only when I can't find what I want used.

[Zach S]

Four of mine were bought used. Three run great. The other is reliable, but not accurate (its an AMT).

[Black Snowman]

I prefer to buy used form local folks found on forums. At least that's how I did my last handgun and working on my next. I shoot my guns quite a bit and I'll leave buying new to the wealthy and people who like to look at them all pretty and shiny in the safe :)

I've had good results with used guns and I tinker anyway. Right now I'm all excited because my used Delta Elite's trigger is a little goofy and I'm looking foreward to tinkering with the help of Tuner's great posts in the Gunsmithing forum. So I'm not really afraid of getting a lemon. It's just a chance to learn a new skill ;)

[michiganfan]

I started out buying new and soon realized that the only difference between a new gun and a used gun is that the used gun has been broken in by somebody else. Oh I forgot the used gun is a lot cheaper. As was said guns are sold for lots of reasons. Who amomg us is not always searching for that perfect gun and along the way we turnover a lot of guns that we bought thinking it was the Holy Grail.

[FullClip]

Have about a 50/50 mix of used / new guns in the collection.
No problem buying used, but only after a good check out. Some guns, such as 1911's I'm a little more leary of as the previous owner may have been a basement gunsmith and "tuned" the trigger or extractor. Of course, this could happen with any gun, but seems the 1911's lend themselves more to tinkering. A good look-see will weed out most of the bad ones.
Buying used from my normal dealer, the gun comes with a function warrenty, so no worries at all.
But new now only when I really need the latest and greatest unit and have to be the first on my block (actually more like township) to have the latest toy.
:D

[SapperLeader]

To me it depends, I dont mind used or new, it depends on which meets my needs. when I wanted a browning hipower, i wasnt picky on which one, so i shopped around used and found a awesome deal. When I wanted my ar-15, I wanted a bushmastet shorty with flattop and a2 carry handle. It was easier to buy that one new. If I just want a type of gun, I tend to shop used, if i want a particular gun, no deviations Im more likely to buy new. Either way, none of my used purchases have given me any trouble, though I have had lemons in the new category.

[russlate]

I buy the 50's, 60's and some 70's blued or nickeled ( and pinned and recessed if a S&W ). Even into the early 70's the folks making them recognised
that most were being sold for use in saving folks lives and they made sure they worked accordingly before they left the factory. ( The Model 59 being a glaring exception. )

Problem is they are being recognised as being superior quality to the ones produced lately ( if lightly used ), and prices for even the non-collectors items are up in the $300+ buck range. Colt OP 38 spl. , Berreta M35 32 auto, etc. Used to be a decent condition one of either went for $200 or under. Ten years ago, I bought any decent Colt or Smith 38 I saw for under $150, just on general principles that you can's have too many good guns.

[DoubleAction]

Since many guns are sold before they are actually fired, or fired only once, I prefer the term " Pre-Owned" with most of my second hand purchases. The savings is great, to say the least, and with some Models having been discontinued the option of purchasing new is non existant. Saving an average of $200. on the purchase of a pre-owned handgun might not seem much, but multiply that over 20 or 30 handguns. Purchasing from individuals will also find you picking up extras like holsters, magazines, grips, and ammunition as an offer to buy the gun as a quick cash incentive. Pawn shops offer very little to individuals in need of turning guns into cash during financial set backs.

[cool45auto]

I don't have a problem with it. All my guns were used except for one.

[ruger357]

I buy most of my guns used.

[albanian]

Most of my guns were bought used. You would be surprised at how many almost new guns are out there. Most people don't shoot or carry their guns I guess.

[shep854]

Albanian said it. I just bought a 92FS, "used". The only wear I saw was slight barrel wear. The case showed much more wear than the gun, but I saved ~$200 over "new".

[FPrice]

I have bought used many times and very seldom, if ever, been burned. The worst gun I ever bought was new.

Of course, I collect older firearms so it's hard to buy new in that field.

[RON in PA]

Almost all the guns in my collection were purchased used. Rarely have I been stung, but then I've been doing this for about 45 years so there's been a lot of learning involved. Modern guns, especially those still being manufactured are easy to fix if there's a problem. If possible try to establish a relationship with an honest dealer who's willing to back up what he sells. Also in my experience, if you buy a used gun made by one of the major manufacturers it will be a rugged piece to begin-with.

[Mortech]

90 % of mine are used ,mostly guns from the local dealers 'Widow' case . guys buy them and then once they get them home the wife makes them return them , I once got a unfired XD-40 for $350 ! Cause the guy only had it for 2 hours! (I need to send those kinds of wives Christmas cards) And the only broken one I bought was a CZ-70 with a broken firing pin , it was my fault for not checking it out thoroghly . But $25 andand a new pin and its back in business . ANd my favorite used buy is when I got a CZ75B and a BHP Mk III for $700 total .

[jimbo]

All of the used guns I've bought had to be scrutinized to tell if they had been shot at all. I don't think any of my used guns had more than 50 rounds through them. Many, many people buy a gun, fondle it, shoot it once or twice and end up selling.

Few people are typical of the folks on this forum, who actually shoot their firearms. Lord knows I still have a few firearms with less than a hundred rounds fired because they just didn't quite do it for me at the range. If I were the type to sell handguns, they would be terrific low-mileage deals.

[Dave Markowitz]

The vast majority of guns I have were bought used. Condition has ranged from apparently unfired to been through WW2.

[4v50 Gary]

I've bought used and even busted guns so I could have something to work on. Besides being cheap, it must be some kind of sickness.:confused:

[GrandmasterB]

I am OK buying used, but you have to do it wisely IMHO.

Certain guns should be given extra special scrutiny. Those that are known as candidates for "kitchen table gunsmiths" -- those that have tons of aftermarket parts available -- those that have a status of "holy grail" kinds of guns where hacks could have worked on them.

Such as:

* 1911 variants (too many tinkerers and hacks out there)
* Ruger 10-22's (easy to make modifications at home)
* Ar15 variants (lots of home builders here too)
* Colt Pythons and other v-spring revolvers (lots of folks seek that "magical" Python trigger, yet VERY few are qualified to work on these guns and timing problems show up rapidly

If you want to buy one of these types used, do your homework and check it thoroughly.

[sgtmaj13]

My last 14 guns were all bought used. As will my next 14.

[Black_Talon]

Here in ****, if you want a handgun that's not on the DOJ "Approved" list you have no choice but to buy a used gun from someone within the state.

[C. H. Luke]

Now try not to buy unless can shoot the pistol for accuracy, function, etc.
Have a used Glock 20 and an Izzy Hipower that had mediochre accuracy at best.
The G20's bbl. was essentially shot-out with no visable signs on inspection.
A KKM .40 bbl. turned it into a teck-driver.

The BHP was very well used but did not grtoup weel at all even after Novak's re-crowned the muzzle. Got an OEM bbl. on sale now it's v.g. to exc. in accuracy but all this "added" $100-150 to the guns $!

[Spieler]

I've bought and sold many used guns through the years with good results. The one 'lemon' that I wanted to unload was sold to someone who really wanted that model gun and I fully disclosed the problems I had encountered with it. Same for the one 'lemon' I bought - owner told me about a few problems he had with it, and with $16.00 worth of parts invested by me it has worked flawlessly the last ten years.

I prefer to buy new and under warranty for primary defense guns, but when it comes to C&R and models no longer in production you really don't have much choice. Besides, used guns tend to have a bit more personality to them.

[Mastrogiacomo]

I've bought my 686 used and I'd have no hesistation buying another revolver that way again. Probably the only way I could afford a Sig would be used.....:)

[caz223]

I only buy new if they only make that model new, if I'm unlikely to find it in the used market, or I can get a really sweet deal on it.
Of course, I only buy guns I want, and when a gun I want presents itself in the used market, it's almost holding a sign that sez "Buy me".

[Magnum88C]

I have a couple of advantages. First off, where I buy my guns is also a range, and we can try used guns before we buy. The second is, some people out there seem to think magnum handguns kick too much--just the kinds of guns I prefer, so most have been fired (often the partial box of ammo comes with the gun) only a few times, darn near new.

I love it.

[5Wire]

For me, it's all across the spectrum.

New for "Lifetime Warranty": H&K P7 M8; for impatience: Para Ordnance 6.45 and 12.45 LDAs.

Used for hard to find, good deals on guns that "spoke to me": S&W 686 Mountain Gun, two S&W 547 9mm revolvers--one of each barrel length, S&W 617 Plus, S&W 642, Ruger PP90DW.

Used to take advantage of preban configuration on P7 M13 (love them P7s).

New and used from selection of something I thought I'd like but didn't: Glock 30, Glock 26, FN Herstal HP/DA, Wakther P99D, Sig 232S.

Old traded for New from impatience for four-inch barreled 629, 625.

I've been lucky overall, if you can count feeding the ones I like lucky, and the values have appreciated on some of those gun remaining to make up for the instant value losses on the NIB ones. Except for ammo, I'm about even moneywise and way ahead in fun.

[10-Ring]

As long as I had the opportuinty to inspect the firearm in question, I'd have no problems buying used. As a matter of fact, a couple of my most favorite were purchased used ;)

[Warren]

I am picking up my G26 tommorow. Bought it used, it only had about 200 rounds through it.

So I think that counts.


I've put more rounds through it than the previous owner so if there are any problems they are all mine.

[Ala Dan]

Greeting's All-

Like other's, I've gotten lots of good deals on used (but
not abused) firearms. Right off the top of my head, one
usually finds a good Ruger Speed-Six, Service-Six, or
Security-Six revolver in the used gun section; very often
found at prices only a fraction of the original cost! As an
example, these are very fine weapons capeable of many
year's of service.

Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, N.R.A. Life Member

[DoubleAction]

Since many guns are sold before they are actually fired, or fired only once, I prefer the term " Pre-Owned" with most of my second hand purchases. The savings is great, to say the least, and with some Models having been discontinued the option of purchasing new is non existant. Saving an average of $200. on the purchase of a pre-owned handgun might not seem much, but multiply that over 20 or 30 handguns. Purchasing from individuals will also find you picking up extras like holsters, magazines, grips, and ammunition as an offer to buy the gun as a quick cash incentive. Pawn shops offer very little to individuals in need of turning guns into cash during financial set backs.


Since my post; I have been buying and new pieces. I've been finding more desirable deals on the vintage revolvers, like the discountnued S&W's.

[007BondJamesBond007]

I have only bought one gun used my Kimber Classic Stainless Gold Match.
I bought the gun from a friend and have sot it many times before I bought it. I bought my Ruger Single Six and PPK/S new. My Ruger is like new after 20 years.

[jvw3cc]

S&W pinned and recessed. Can't buy that new!!

[Ky Larry]

I have bought many used guns including a S&W Model19 for $200 and a 1968 Colt Python 6 inch blued for $600. Both were with box and papers and appeared to my untrained eye to be in NIB condition. I can't find anything new I like better. Just remember, Caveat Emptor in all business dealings.

[WardenWolf]

Handguns tend to be fired less often than rifles, and their small size means they're less likely to be damaged. They also usually see fewer rounds through them, and the rounds they do shoot are less powerful. Because of this, their barrels hold up better. This combination makes it fairly safe to buy a used handgun.

[DoubleAction]

I have bought many used guns including a S&W Model19 for $200 and a 1968 Colt Python 6 inch blued for $600. Both were with box and papers and appeared to my untrained eye to be in NIB condition. I can't find anything new I like better. Just remember, Caveat Emptor in all business dealings

I can remember in '94, during the Glock craze, new Pythons was going for $500.

[The_Shootist]

I've only bought a Bulgy Mak and a Zastava 70 (ie .32ACP handgun) used. I figured ex-ComBloc guns are tough enough to buy used. As it turned out, the Mak was straight from the armoury, liberally coated in Cosmoline so essentially new. The Z was a piece that had ALOT of holster wear on it, carried alot during the Balkan Civil War and worked fine. I shudder sometimes at some of the things it may have done, but its not like its the gun's fault.

[punkndisorderly]

Interestingly, I've had more problems out of guns I purchased new (Ruger MkIII and Remington 597) than the more numberous firearms I've purchased new.

That said, I generally only buy new now. About the only reason I would go used at the moment would be if either a) they don't make what I want anymore or I can't find one new or b) I got a really sweet deal. Most of the time, used guns aside from surplus stuff aren't really that much cheaper than new. Usually around 10-20% from new.

I also tend to have somewhat odd preferences in firearms. Usually I'll go into a gun store looking for something only to find they only carry longer or shorter barreled ones rather than the size I want, only have stainless if I'm looking for blue, only have railed ones if I'm looking for one with a carry handle, etc. I'm at the point now where I will only buy exactly what I'm looking for and not what happens to be in stock. As such, I get most stuff special ordered.

[Eightball]

Most of the things I own are used. You can find great deals in the used market, if you know both where and HOW to look.

[Vern Humphrey]

S&W pinned and recessed. Can't buy that new!!
Nor can you buy a Colt Detective Special, Woodsman, or New Service new. Since I like Colts, I always look for used guns.

[DoubleAction]

Most all, I have are those which are discontued, even my Sigs, S&Ws. and Colts.

[aHFo3]

I've purchased 4 new guns in my life. Two were 10/22's, and they weren't new very long. One was the Walther P22, which was essentially a single shot for me unless I used minimags. My fourth was a new J-frame that had more cylinder play than any of my used S&W's. Go figure! I like guns with a story!

[searcher451]

One of my all-time favorite range guns is a used Walther P5, a German police trade-in, in fact. The rule of thumb for these guns: They were "oft-carried but seldom shot," and this one has been absolutely flawless through many many hundreds of rounds. If I had to pick one gun today to take to the range for as long as I'm able to go, it would be this particular P5. It's not pretty to look at, but it's sure a sweet shooter.

[chuckusaret]

I have bought just 2 used weapons that are of any greater value today: 30 caliber Carbine Blackhawk 7 1/2"—in 1967 for $110 today about $500, Fox Sterlingworth 12GA in 1999 for $400 today about $1,400.

[Big Daddy Grim]

Just look over the gun before you buy and most ones I buy used are covered by manufacturer no matter the owner.

[VegasOPM]

I haven't bought a new gun in years. There are so many safe queens around for hundreds less than new- why would I? The key is to learn how to inspect a gun for wear, abuse or "additions" added poorly. I modify pretty much every gun that I shoot regularly anyway, so why not let someone else pay for the new sights or trigger job? All told, there are very few problems that can't be fixed for less than the price difference from new.

[wrs840]

Five of my six shotguns were bought used in Pawnshops, so yeah, I'm fine with used.

Les

[iafirebuff]

I am just now getting into the 3rd gen Smith's. I LOVE them! So, I am being used - but like new :)

[wankerjake]

Depends on what I'm buying. A Ruger, Smith, Colt, Glock, Sig etc. I wouldn't be too worried. A Taurus or Rossi on the other hand...never again.

[kyo]

no problem buying used if I can verify it works. Most folks in town don't mind at all for a sale.

[Brian Dale]

I bought a new gun once, but I've recovered. :)

There are stacks of terrific guns out there that are barely broken in.