used rifles, what to look out for.
I am shooping for a used deer rifle and I think I know what I am looking for but I would like some advice on how to examine a used rifle to determine if it is a good deal. I will be going to my local gun shows and I am not sure how to spot a problem gun from a good buy. I don't care if it looks a liitle worn and used but I hope to find one in good working order. I won't be able to shoot to rifle so short of that what can I look at to help make a good choice
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I would suggest you check Gunbroker to get an idea of what they should cost. Also look at any used rifle foe signs it has been taken apart such as goobered threads, wood or bluing that does not match or recoil pads which did not come from the factory.
Also, if you are serious about buying a gun from a show ask for, no demand a look at the sellers drivers license and if you have any doubt do not buy from anyone you cannot easily drive to their home if you have a problem.
Normally dealers attend gun shows on a regular basis and they should not be a problem but you may run into someone just trying to unload uncle Pete's ought six and may not know anythig about the gun.
Good luck
Rockton0 -
There are so many things to look for, and so many different models with specific problems, it's pretty difficult to tell you all the things to look for. The gun magazines frequently print articles on this subject; the more you read, the better informed you will be.
Before I went to a gun show, I'd consider buying it from a local gun shop. Most of them offer guarantees, something you're not likely to get at a show. And, the local gun dealer is more likely to be honest & helpful, because he is always looking for repeat business.
Neal0 -
You should always work the action to see that it operates smoothly. Check the bore with a bore lite or one of the little plastic optic hooks to see that the bore is not pitted. A dark bore probably just needs a good cleaning, but pits can affect accuracy. As mentioned above look for signs of ham fisted gunsmithing on screw heads. You should know what is factory and be able to pick out things done after it left the factory like boring and tapping for scope mounts by someone else, replacement recoil pads and so on. Often the best deals are walking in the isles looking for a new home rather than on the tables, so keep an eye on what other attendees are selling. Like many things it is a case of buyers beware. There is a book out on buying and selling used guns that is helpful. I will try to find a link to it or title and author.
http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/0883171147/qid=1050179718/sr=2-3/002-2718244-7648006?v=glance&s=books
That should get you there, How to buy and Sell Used Guns, but Traister-$10.950 -
I am Looking for a Remington 700 in .270. Is there anyting I should look out for with this model? 0 -
Hey Jong, welcome to the wonderful world of shooping!
Seriously though, there's nothing wrong with the Rem 700; it's the rifle that the USAMU starts off with to make the M23 sniper rifle.
Or maybe it's the M21.
Anyway, it has a decent trigger, smooth bolt action, good barrel and seems to be upgradeable without hocking a testi*le.
Sometimes, you can't work the action because of the safety ties placed around the action of guns at shows; so take a borelite with you (with fresh batteries), a cleaning rod (the Otis fits in your pocket-you'll see one), and a few clean patches to run down the bore.
If your eyes are getting older, take a magnifying glass to make sure the screw heads aren't all cattywampus from an amateur 'smith playing around inside the action. Then, inspect the bore as though it was going to carry a transfusion to you, ask the seller if you can work the action & trigger, and in general; EYEBALL every square inch of the stock, metal, bore, sights, etc.-do everything you can short of firing it indoors to familiarize yourself with it & make up your mind.
If you know it all; you must have been listening.WEAR EAR PROTECTION!0 -
On a 700 if the trigger has been "adjusted", look out. If it has been replaced with a aftermarket trigger, thats a good thing.
700 triggers (even the bone stock, origional, factory set ones) have been known to release the firing pin when you take off the safety, due to a internal design issue.
Some guys like a mag full of lead, I still prefer one round to the head.0
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