What to check when buying a used shotgun

[neededausername]

I'm thinking about a buying a shotgun for HD purposes. One of the local pawnshops has a Mossberg 500 12ga for $120.00. I've never really had any interest in buying a shotgun before, but it seemed like a good price for the peace of mind. What all do I need to check out on a used shotgun, and is this a decent price on a 500? I'm not sure what 500 model exactly. I'm pretty sure it's a 20" barrel. Will only be for HD purposes, not hunting, skeet, or any of that. I will of course take it the range to familiarize myself with it, other than it will sleep by the bed, hopefully never to be needed.

 

[Dave McCracken]

Check for rust, grunge and barrel bulges, bends etc.

500s are not terribly fragile. As long as it wasn't badly abused or neglected, it will work as needed.

And "Familiarize" is just the start. We need proficiency and that comes with use.

Shoottheheckoutofit.....