I've had a discussion recently on another forum about the number of rounds to shoot before a gun proves it is reliable -- some opined up to 500 rounds without a problem in a 1911. I am comfortable with a lower number, say about 250 rounds from a 1911 and 100 or so from most other semi-autos. The 1911s do tend to have a few more problems early than most other quality pistols (please don't flame me because I love 1911s but truth is truth). With revolvers, I feel comfortable shooting even fewer rounds, usually 50 or so.
The purpose of doing this is three-fold:
First, it provides a certain amount of break-in. Guns are machines and even the best of them improve with some break-in period. That doesn't mean they shouldn't work out of the box, just that they improve with a little use.
Second, some parts may be improperly fit, improperly secured, etc. A break-in period will give these parts some time to work lose, etc. Better to find this out at the range than if you really need it.
Finally, a break-in period provides a familiarization period for the shooter. It allows the shooter to get used to the trigger, adjust point of aim (or the sights), etc.
Of course, all this assumes I feel comfortable with the weapon and I can hit what I aim at.
The purpose of doing this is three-fold:
First, it provides a certain amount of break-in. Guns are machines and even the best of them improve with some break-in period. That doesn't mean they shouldn't work out of the box, just that they improve with a little use.
Second, some parts may be improperly fit, improperly secured, etc. A break-in period will give these parts some time to work lose, etc. Better to find this out at the range than if you really need it.
Finally, a break-in period provides a familiarization period for the shooter. It allows the shooter to get used to the trigger, adjust point of aim (or the sights), etc.
Of course, all this assumes I feel comfortable with the weapon and I can hit what I aim at.