Why Do Old Guns Feel So Solid?

[DeadCalm]

Thank you all for your responses. Jim March's most recent response then begs the question, "Well, who DOES still make firearms that feel like that?" Yeah, I've got one of Freedom Arms' little .22 Mag revolvers and that too takes me back to the thrilling days of yester year quality. So excluding full-out custom guns, but including maybe Cooper Arms, Dakota, Freedom Arms, etc., which makers charge less than a second mortgage to purchase? Under $2K–$3K?
Thanks.
Ross

 

[DeadCalm]

Thank you all for your responses. Jim March's most recent response then begs the question, "Well, who DOES still make firearms that feel like that?" Yeah, I've got one of Freedom Arms' little .22 Mag revolvers and that too takes me back to the thrilling days of yester year quality. So excluding full-out custom guns, but including maybe Cooper Arms, Dakota, Freedom Arms, etc., which makers charge less than a second mortgage to purchase? Under $2K–$3K?
Thanks.
Ross

 

[Jayb]

Lifting either one of these 45 year old .22 target rifles that weigh 14.5 lbs apiece, will lead you most of the way to why some of the older guns feel so solid. Solid wood, and solid steel. Their looks ain't too shabby either.

 

[CGofMP]

Thank you all for your responses. Jim March's most recent response then begs the question, "Well, who DOES still make firearms that feel like that?"

I am officially biased as I do John Jardine's websites, but I think I am being honest when I say that every time I have picked up one of his Valtro (1911 style pistols) that I am always impressed with the heft and feel of his products.



My other passion of course is the M1 Garand Rifle I have yet to hold a USGI Garand that did not inspire a feeling of 'certainty'. It may also build your biceps as compared to the M16, but the elegance of a solid design made with forged steel just has that confident feel to it.