Used handgun

Hello Sir,

You will need to be a little more specific. Are you interested in purchasing a used revolver or semiauto? In short, there is absolutely nothing wrong with purchasing used as there are plenty of perfectly fine used handguns available.

Here is a good article on what to look for when purchasing a used revolver…that is definitely worth a look http://thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=57816.
 
Most people would like a new car - but probably the majorty buy secondhand. Most get a good deal - some are unlucky, and unfortunately a few get downright conned :mad:
Same with guns.
Where are you buying - from a dealer with a reputation who may offer some sort of guarantee? Or off the street from an unknown source who may have just used the gn in a crime?
I recommend always getting some sort of receipt even in private sale.
 
You really need to know what to look for when purchasing a used firearm. I've mostly had good luck buying them so far, but a couple did slip through the radar with some defects.

Also be aware of state and federal laws purchasing from an unknown individual. If you purchase FTF in-state, the seller has to prove they are able to sell/posess a firearm, and you have a duty to show THEM you are able to buy as well. It works both ways.
 
I've bought new an used, but I get a more enjoyment out of buying used. When you buy "new" you're getting exactly what several thousand other buyers got when they bought theirs. Not very interesting. Buying a used gun is more fun because I'm checking for condition and price. Example: saw but did not buy a very nice condition M&P 9mm at Gander Mtn. marked $399.00. Would have been a nice purchase had I wanted one.

Did recently buy a Smith Wesson 4046 in excellent condition at Bud's Guns for $329. It's an absolutely beautiful handgun. Of course I had to pay some FFL transfer fees but it was still a great deal. Also, bought a Smith 686 with four inch barrel in 95% condition at Gander Mtn. for $399. If the condition and price are right go for it.
 
I prefer used to new. You usually get a better deal and any upgrades or accessories are included or for only a fraction of their cost. Most people don't shoot their guns very much but you do have to pay attention to looseness and damaged parts.
 
It can be a good idea to buy a used handgun, you just have to do your home work and know what to check. Revolvers and autos each have a different list of checks to do before buying. A lot of guns are bought and not shot or shot very little, some are carried in a holster and have finish ware but shot little so there are bargains out there. Learning how to do these checks and the special concerns for different guns can be as much fun as shooting them. The best advice is if in doubt pass on the deal there will be another. Good luck : Bill
 
Is it a bad idea to buy a used handgun?
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Not at all.

Is it a bad idea to buy a used handgun?
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Beyond wear, rust, broken parts and signs of abuse, different guns have different lists. The revolver checklist is different from what you'd look for in an autoloader.

Also, how available are parts and service? Will the manufacturer (assuming they're still in business) support you, you not being the original purchaser? Not all will.
 
I can't even remember the last time I bought a new handgun. It's been close to a decade.

And I have close to 50 handguns.
 
Yeah I was in a rush and wasn't clear in my OP. I'm squeemish about buying a used gun b/c I'm in the market for a 22 handgun and I could see people not treating their plinker pistol with the care it deserves and my lack of gun savvy would make me inept to finding flaws in the gun.

Off topic, but is there a good book i could read that would cover the nuts and bolts of gun ownership?
 
You should read on how to look for problems in a used gun. Here is the good part of used guns, many of them are hardly used and in great condition at good prices. I'd not hesitate to buy a used handgun. The large majority are fine. And all my guns have been very well maintained including the plinkers.
Get a good used gun and save money.
 
I could see people not treating their plinker pistol with the care it deserves and my lack of gun savvy would make me inept to finding flaws in the gun.
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My opinion only, but I think it's hard to abuse a .22lr handgun to the point a good cleaning wouldn't fix it. Any rough handling should affect the external surfaces in ways that even a novice should be able to detect.

So, if the outside looks good and it's a Ruger, Smith & Wesson, Browning, Colt, etc. I'd buy it, take it home, and give it a good cleaning.
 
Its never a bad idea to buy a used handgun! But you do need to check a few things in case. My opinion only and hopefully others here have more ideas!

Revolvers;
1, check the timing (cylinder to cocking)
2. Stress cone/spacing
3. inner barrel and cylinder pitting
4. hammer spring (remove the grips)
5. general finish although you can always have it refinished.

Autos

1. Slide and slide lock
2. trigger and hammer cocking/action
3. barrel pitting
4. perform and field strip to ensure all part work well and re-assemble.

Last but not to be overlooked. If you have a buddy in law enforcement have him QUIETLY RUN the serial numbers to ensure it is not stolen or been used in a crime:eek:. You REALLY have to be careful with that one! Also be aware of the State Gun Laws and the sales of weapons! Some states you HAVE TO GO THROUGH A GUN DEALER!!! But?????? Don't put yourself in jeopardy.

There are many books discussing this and also you can ask to let a gun smith see it. I always insist on shooting it first.

Anyway, basic stuff hopefully more will provide additional information but this is my check list.
 
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There is no reason to not buy a used handgun as most get fired very little and the ones that have been fired a lot look like they have been fired a lot. The ones that haven't been maintained also look like they haven't been properly maintained. That said there are things you need to check on both semi auto and revolvers and there are plenty of informative threads that tell you what to check for.

I own a lot of guns and less then 10% have ever been bought new.
 
For me part of the fun of handgun acquisition/ownership is unearthing treasures that have been overlooked or discarded. I purchased nearly all of my handguns used. I'm constantly looking for guns that, in my judgment, are for sale at below market prices. So far, I've been lucky, I've never bought a used gun that turned out to be a clunker. If the gun's a revolver I always check the lockup and the bore as well as dry fire it a few times to test the trigger. If it's a semiauto, I check the bore, the magazine release, the slide stop, and the slide action. I also insert a magazine into the gun to determine whether it seats properly. The mechanics of most handguns are pretty simple and, in fact, I've rarely rejected a gun because I detected something wrong with it.
 
One more thing to check..

Pull the hammer back and push it forward with your thumb firm but not real hard and make sure some one did not try to give it a "trigger Job" and over do it.

If you can push it off with your thumb pass on it.

Doug
 
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