How bad are cheap semi-autos ?
I'm a total novice and am looking at picking up a semi-auto to take to the range for plinking once in awhile. I figure I can pick-up a cheap one at the local gun show for $100-200. If I get more into the hobby, I can upgrade to more respectable firearm. But I don't want to spend too much right now.
Opinions ? Should I make more of an investment up front ? or does the frugal approach sound reasonable ?
Also, any suggestions on a "starter" piece ?
Opinions ? Should I make more of an investment up front ? or does the frugal approach sound reasonable ?
Also, any suggestions on a "starter" piece ?
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You talking about pistol or rifle? Or shotgun?
Cheap semi-autos are usually a crap shoot, some will work fine and other are junk, even within the same brand and model. If your going to buy $100.00 semi-autos, buy three of them, one will probably be fine.
Okay, just joking. Actually, there are some VERY nice semi-auto pistols in that price range, they are European military surplus. These include the Makarov, PA63, and CZ52. The first two are 9X18 cal, the third 7.62X25. Dealer's price on them is from about $100 to $140, you should be able to find a dealer willing to sell in your price range. These are amoung the best deals on the market right now. They have some quirks, but are basically nice guns, and very reliable. There shouldn't be much reason to sell one when yyou upgrade. Just hang onto it and buy another.
There should be some decent .22 rifles in that price range, say, 10/22.
To err is human, to moo is bovine.0 -
seanport;
It has been my experience, that "cheap" autos, unless it is a good one bought way below market, are a real disappointment.There's an old saying, "You get what you pay for", that applies here. If you want a reliable resonably accurate pistol, opt up. I won't buy such guns as Ravens, Braco's, Lorcin's and the like, simply because, in my opinion, they don't measure up to my standards. I've shot, or atempted to shoot, many of these cheaper autos and found them lacking in many ways. Try locating a good used NAME BRAND pistol in you're price range,like a Ruger mark one or the like. You will enjoy shooting a lot more if you can hit the target. Just my thoughts on the subject.0 -
Avoid the dirt cheap semi-auto's especially the Jennings, Ravens, and Phoenix Arms. They are junk. As the above poster said, you get what you pay for. If you are willing to drop the cash opt for something in the $220-$250 range in .380 or larger caliber. They tend to be a whole lot more reliable than saturday night specials. If you are willing to spend the cash for an inexpensive yet good/reliable semi-automatic that is fairly inexpensive to shoot take a look at the CZ line of pistols.
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quote:opt for something in the $220-$250 range in .380
If thinking along these lines, look at the Bersa Thunder 380. Inexpensive, but not cheap by any means. Love mine! You can also usually pick up some of the Ruger pistols in the $250 range. Bought by P-90 (LNIB) for $280. Like everyone has said...stay the heck away from Jennings and the like. Kel-tec also makes some highly regarded inexpensive pistols. Might want to look at one of those. Several out there to choose from that won't break the bank.
Taxation WITH representation isn't so hot either!0 -
If you're new to the "hobby"(it's a lifestyle; trust me), you might want to pick up a copy of Gun List or Shotgun News at a newsstand and look at the names and prices to get familiar with the toys you'll be buying.
You might also look at some revolvers, since as a "newbie", you may find manipulation of some semi's a bit daunting. Wheelguns will teach you the basics of marksmanship more easily than just shoving in a clip and emptying it in the general direction of your target.
Look at the Smith Model 10; a nice little 38 special with good sights and decent trigger, minimal kick and cheap to shoot (cheaper still if you reload!), and around $100 or so.
Fer plinkin' get a Ruger MKII with a 5-6'' barrel and a brick of 22's; shouldn't cost more than $300 for the whole shebang!
If you know it all; you must have been listening.WEAR EAR PROTECTION!0 -
Every so often I will see Witness 9mm pistols going for $200 - $275. If you want a quality pistol pick up one of these guns. The all steel, non-polymer, ones are great.
Regards,
FREE IRAQ0 -
Should we not suggest that he stay away from the infamous Jennings?
Art0 -
I'd suggest what a few others have mentioned.
Get a .22 semi-auto pistol such as a Ruger mark II.
They are about $250 and fine shooters and look around while your at the range shooting it and see what other guys have and talk to them about what you might want to get in a bigger round.0 -
Ditto, If you get a cheap one, you'll learn to hate it real quick. Marginal performance, marginal reliability, marginal resale value.[xx(]
Love them Beavers
SUPPORT THE I.N.S. , THE COUNTRY THEY SAVE COULD BE YOUR OWN0 -
You seem to be set on semi-auto, but if getting a cheap gun then a revolver is the way to go. I've had some absolute horrible cheap semi-autos, but in the mid-price range I've had great luck.
Good luck - and yeah, stay away from Jennings, and also from the AR-7 rifles (any brand) I've had quite a few and every one of them sucked. I'd have rather had a bolt gun than a lousy semi...0
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