Smyth Busters: You Shouldn't Buy Used Guns!

Caleb was cruising through the comments on a recent Smyth Busters video, when this one stopped his roll: "YOU SHOULDN'T BUY USED GUNS!" That's all there was in the initial post, though plenty of "spirited debate" ensued. That rule presents a serious problem to collectors of old firearms, says Steve the Classic Smith & Wesson Guy. Caleb thinks the original comment was more about self-defense guns..... but he still calls "baloney" on it! Who hasn’t bought a "pre-owned" Remington 870 or Mossberg 500, a police trade-in Glock® or Smith & Wesson 686, or an Israeli Hi-Power? Now, you DO have to be wary of used guns that have been "Bubba'd" - worked on by an amateur gunsmith whose limited skills don't match his ambition.
If you do buy a used gun, get it from a reputable retailer. Almost any good gun store has a selection of used firearms, sometimes even backed up by a warranty. You do have to get educated about certain guns that you should NOT buy used, such as the Remington 742, whose bolt and locking lugs tended to wear out very quickly. The 742 gives Caleb "gunsmith PTSD". (Remington eventually replaced it with the much-improved 7400.)
Stay away from the cheap "pot metal" guns like Ravens, Jennings, and Brycos, which were made with very soft metal and do not stand up to being shot very much without breaking. Old generic Belgian double-barreled shotguns, which tended to be pretty loose when new, should be used only wall-hangers now. The Marlin Model 60 is a good gun but tends to wear out feed lips quickly, so test fire it before you buy one. Actually, if you CAN, you SHOULD test fire any used gun before you buy it.
So it's settled: the myth is BUSTED. It's totally OK to buy used guns as long as you buy quality brands and study up on the particular model you want before you plunk down the legal tender for it.

[@CalebSavant]

What are some great used gun finds you guys have!?

[@CliftonHicksbanjo]

First gun I ever bought was a like-new 1903A1 Springfield rifle stamped February, 1928. I bought it for $650.

[@bannedbycommieyoutube5time920]

Like new early 30’s Colt Model 1908 Pocket hammerless at an estate auction. Both original plastic grips and period correct plastic grips with the Colt insert, two original magazines. $800 out the door.

[@mikecavossa6450]

That model 12 that's on the rack that would be a good start...

[@nordicgunner96]

I bought a Mauser kar98k converted to 3006 springfield by the Norwegian military, in really nice condition for $100

[@jeramyw]

1954 Winchester model 64 24" 30-30 near mint slight handling wear 1952 Winchester model 70 24" 270 win standard 1910 Winchester model 1892 24" 38-40 relined octagon barrel rifle pattern

[@CliftonHicksbanjo]

MORE USED GUNS FOR ME. 💰

[@mmsizzlak]

Dude that's EXACTLY what I was thinking... Oh y'all don't wanna buy used? More for me!

[@JohnHughesChampigny]

It's true! You should only buy new, unused Mauser C96s!

[@producedrabbit1]

I’ve bought brand new firearms that were lemons and used firearms that make me wonder why the original owner got rid of. Some of my best purchases were used guns. I literally bought an Arsenal SLR-95 for $650 a couple months ago and thought it was too good to be true. Great rifle

[@s0nnyburnett]

I've had both of my brand new guns from Ruger come with problems, sent the trigger group for the mini 14 back to have the safety fixed. New guns have issues like new cars, the first owner gets to fix anything wrong from the factory.

[@jagg-justanothergunguy4505]

I have to say the firearm I hated more than any other I've ever owned was an early '80s Ruger mini-14 but I save money from my paychecks for months in order to purchase brand new. While I didn't really have any issues with reliability it grouped like a scattergun.

[@cobymcgee8026]

I bought an old Ruger mark II that looked rough because the bluing was worn so badly, but the price was right. I sent it to Ruger to have them blue it and it came back looking like a new gun. They even replaced some parts on it.

[@whydoineedmynamehi6772]

What did they charge for that?

[@aaronskuse2207]

That’s some big brain 200 iq thinking there.

[@cobymcgee8026]

@@whydoineedmynamehi6772 it was $110. I was going to try to cold blue it, but for the price I’d rather have the factory blueing process they use. That price also includes them replacing worn parts and springs. It is on their website under parts and services.

[@29rca]

i own a pair of mark ii’s best trigger of all four versions. Other old steel .22’s are absolute lasers. umarex 22 pistols are junk. mark iii(lawyer gun) is worst of series.

[@whydoineedmynamehi6772]

@@cobymcgee8026 good to know, not a bad price all things considered.

[@AbbyNormL]

60%+ of my guns were purchased used. One of my favorite is a near mint 4” Nickel Smith & Wesson Model 19 which I purchased from a fellow employee in the parking lot around 45 years ago. Unfortunately, finding low cost used guns has been getting hard to find for a few decades now.

[@stevailo]

My first and still most used gun is a CZ Shadow 2 I bought used in summer 2020. With the money I saved buying it used I had it worked on, it’s a dream to shoot and never had a problem.

[@ryanpeck3377]

I bought a Pristine CZ Shadow 2 (urban grey) used a few months ago. Was a great deal I couldn’t pass up. I haven’t done any work to it but its still an amazing pistol

[@stevailo]

@@ryanpeck3377 couldn’t agree more. Besides that, CZs are such rugged pistols, especially newer ones, that swapping in new springs and getting a spare hold open just in case brings them back to almost new with 50 bucks. Given that core components are in good shape of course

[@tomahawk1911]

Great advice Steve and Caleb. Thank you both. I could have used such knowledge back in the late 1970’s. First used gun I bought, a German imported .22 LR revolver, with an unfortunately loose lock up. Would spit lead out from the forcing cone area and had a quite erratic POI. A pistol range employee showed how to check end shake and cylinder lock up, the beginning of my journey. Next .22 pistol bought was a Ruger Mark I 6”+ barrel. A huge step up for me.

[@scoutGOW]

Love the channel and series! Thank you!

[@larryreinke6136]

Bought a used Winchester model 12, was made in late '37 early '38. Still works great.

[@johndillard8588]

As does my grandfathers.

[@chris.3711]

I have a winchester 1897 made in the early teens of the 1900's. Took it bird hunting last year, I had a blast!

[@Bill-jv5eg]

Love old guns, getting harder to find

[@mrshort2379]

very valuable information and great content. In my opinion you shouldn't buy used guns unless you have the common since enough to know what you are looking at, or know someone that can look it over for you or maybe even only buy used guns from a trusted dealer or shop with a good reputation. especially for used guns sight unseen.

[@duckcommander15]

Nothing is wrong with a used guns. I have plenty of milsurps and they’re great shooters. I recently acquired a 1973 Browning A5 light 12 in mint condition. It still has the directions on how to adjust the friction rings taped in the forearm. However I think when purchasing a used firearm should be throughly checked before buying unless you get it at a great price

[@appalachiangunman9589]

A common problem with the A5 was that the fore end would split close to the receiver because it’s really thin in that area. I had one that I regret selling but mine wasn’t split. My dad still has his A5 but his fore end is split. The gun however is still in perfect mechanical order.

[@mikek8089]

I beg to differ on a Rem 742. I have my Grandfather's (.308), and the thing runs and shoots great. Even though I have plenty of other fine rifles, it's my go to deer gun!

[@johnmaresca69]

I would like to hear what Caleb's thought of the armorer courses he went through while in the military/civilian life. He seems so young and yet knowledgeable.

[@tommyt8998]

On the other hand, I spend a lot of time on gun boards, If I had a dollar for every time a poster stated that, "I had a lot of trouble with that gun, so I sold it", I would be rich!

[@sturisa]

Not sure you could call it used, but bought a Colt Python 6 inch barrel in Royal Blue finish on consignment in 1992. There was 1 owner before me, but he had to sell since he needed the money. It cost me under $500 back then. I still have the original box, manual and grips. I did swap the wooden grips for black Pachmayr grips. I also had a chance to buy a S&W Model 29 at the same time from the same owner, but couldn't afford both so I settled on the Python. I'm happy with my purchase!

[@thelastminuteman7513]

Best deal on a firearm I ever got was a stainless Ruger GP100 with literally 12 rounds through it. $580 the guy shot it once and didn't like it. The 2nd best was a custom olive camo cerekoted M590 police gun with a surefire flashlight foreend for $350.

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

Years ago, 1990s I saw a estate sale printed ad for a 4" S&W Model 19 K frame. $50! 😯 I'd snag that up if I had the $.

[@allen4758]

Don't make the most I did , I sold my GP 100 not knowing the price had increased so much 😭

[@zh3401]

I have purchased three Sig Sauer P series pistols (228, 226, 239) for very little money. All three were sent to Sig for "tune up" (replace all springs, screws and worn parts). They all perform flawlessly now. So I have three EDC Sig's for under $1000. I also bought a P230 380 ACP used but never fired. Additionally I too have bought used Mossberg shotguns as well as pre 62 Winchester lever actions.

[@scabcrawler632]

I picked up a german cold war sig p6 not too long ago. Pretty minty

[@TRIIGGAVELLI]

Most "used" guns have never been fired or less than 50 rounds through them.

[@TheREALLibertyOrDeath]

I’ve always said that, people almost never put any amount of wear of a firearm from shooting them.

[@TRIIGGAVELLI]

@@TheREALLibertyOrDeath I know it cracks me up when ppl talk about "wearing a gun out" when 99.9% of people don't shoot enough to break a gun in.

[@anthonyayers4933]

Love that model 12 on the table

[@paulbervid1610]

Great conversation

[@steveb6103]

I have every model 12 gauge ever made. The hardest one to find was the 28ga. I used the 12ga all summer for trap. In fact most of my firearms were used when I bought them.

[@clashofkingsaddict9733]

Good stuff guys👍 as usual

[@jeremywills9303]

Worked in a pawn shop for a year. Seen it all lol. Some just needed to shake the rust and dust off and they were good to go. Some were just beyond saving and most were typically well taken care of.

[@behindenemylines3361]

I a bought a used Mossberg 500 12 gauge, years-years ago: still have it. A bought a Marlin model 60 in the mid-80’s (new) ran a ton of ammo though it, zero issues.

[@DamionJR4923]

The price difference for most used guns isn’t that much higher than for a new one.

[@Iceaxehikes]

1959 Ruger Single six 4 5/8" barrel, 1969 Savage 24S/E .22lr over 20 ga, Smith an Wesson 17-4 1979 MINT, 1957 Marlin Model 39A Mountie, 1908(ish) Marlin Model 1897, 1966 Remington Nylon 66. The list goes on. So many beautiful used guns.

[@josephdipko2547]

I love used guns...no issues with voided warranty or anything. Own several bubba guns in the process of restoration and love them all

[@RobinP556]

Good one. Here’s a suggestion, the lifespan of powder and primers. I have no idea how many people have told me to only use “fresh” powder/primers because it’s either dangerous to use older components or the government mandated that the companies that make these components make them ineffective after 5-10 years. I have some powders that I’ve had since the 1980s and properly stored they’re just fine.

[@pkplith]

If stored properly it will last for years and years. I have some that are 15 years old and still works great.primers and powder 👍

[@firstnamelastname6216]

Man, great suggestion!!! I've heard this rumor as well, especially in the last couple of years...

[@patricknesbit2334]

One of the coolest and fun guns I had years ago was a used heritage arms 22lr/22mag. It was sound, shot well, was inexpensive, was cheap to shoot, and was great for varmints and plinking. It got me hooked on revolvers. Used guns are a good entry point for new shooters and those that are wondering what responsible shooting is all about. Never throw out the opportunity to find something awesome that is not highly priced.

[@Farmer-bh3cg]

Was gifted a Walther P-38 made in early '42. It was used to good effect in SE Asia and is still a go-to today.

[@noahcount7132]

The field grade takedown model 12 Winchester pump on the tabletop in this video is a dead ringer for my first ever shotgun. The only reason I traded it off is that it was the only 16 gauge in the group that I hunted with, making me unable to borrow ammo from any of the others, all of whom shot 12 gauges.

[@hughgrection3052]

Nice model 12 on the table. I have a heavy duck 3inch model that's been sawed off to 18 inches. It will out perform any combat pump any day of the week. Plus it eats minishells, plus!!.. it slamfires! Woooo!!

[@chipsterb4946]

First thing to look at in older revolver: bubba marks around screws demonstrating use of wrong screwdriver. If you see them, run away.

[@dahveed284]

Buying used anything is a "buyer beware" situation. If you're not knowledgable about the topic at hand or willing to invest the time to become knowledgable, then used purchase is sort of a gamble. Of the used guns I have purchased, several have had problems. Of course, I have also purchased a new cheap gun and it sucked too.

[@dancortes3062]

I don't understand this mentality that a gun is automatically bad if it has been "used". In my experience most people I know shoot their guns very little and if they were to sell them, whoever buys them is going to get a practically brand new gun. There are also methods and tools for checking critical parts like barrels for wear. Sure some people neglect maintenance on their guns but many times you can spot these guns a mile away from the amount of rust on them.

[@timlandis6690]

Thanks Steve and Savant

[@IAMMRPATRICKBORNAGAIN]

Very few people have the financial means to put enough ammo through a gun to wear it out.

[@marloc2019]

I love the way you guys could go "what the f..." and instead you still keep aplomb and talk the matter through flawlessly

[@DragonJohn]

Got a used MAK-90 a while back. Switched out the furniture on it but the only issue I had was the sights being off by like 18 inches at 100 yards.

[@MrRufusjax]

One of my favorite guns is my Sig P229. Bought it used for a steal. Has not let me down. Works like a Swiss watch. I love it.

[@jetmr_5043]

My two favorite guns are used guns. I guess that means I ought to get rid of my Remington 870 wing master because it’s used…

[@hmmm2183]

Most police trade ins are great because they are stock guns with minimal use … outside of finish wear, digs and dents. My Glock 22 gen 4 has all the up grades most add but it only went for $300

[@rodneymoore7270]

I trained and qualified for a Texas level four body guard using a 1959 Belgian made Browning Hi Power (2 years younger than me) and a "Montgomery Wards" Mossberg 500. (THANKS DAD!)The instructors said at the start that those of us using older weapons would probably require "alibi fires" LOL NOT for me at least and in the case of the shotgun the ammo was 20-30 years old. I maintained my shit then and now! I did not miss the training opportunity and did some additional firing on the range after the course was over, and shot up ALL the old shotgun ammo, that yes all the rounds worked, and I got to try several scenarios like empty the sg as I backed away, fire, scoot, fire ect. I bought some more 12ga afterward; slug and #4 buckshot thank you. I have newer weapons now but would trust those 2 well seasoned guns to fire effectively and accurately EVERY TIME TO THIS DAY! I put my life on it.

[@marsoelflaco5722]

Used guns can be a great value, especially if they are bought from a reputable gun shop.✌🏽

[@FitnFire]

I’m just here for Caleb’s hair 🤌🏻

[@unbereafigendlic8414]

I got a beat up Jericho 941 Mishtara (police) trade-in. The spring is weakened a little but it's one of the best shooters I have. Still almost no felt recoil.

[@redleg166]

Love the coffee mug!

[@wobblyduck1594]

2:15 I like the way Steve iterated that. I probably helped a few guns along as I was learning proper 'smithin. 😁🤣Caleb- Did you just call me Bubba? 😡

[@not.an.operator]

Could you guys do a video on the double barrel shotgun section? I've been looking for a cheap used one lately and would love more info

[@wasntmeXYZ]

Baloney? It could be salami! Who are you to say and decide!!!😂😂

[@johnphillips222]

Beware of buying low quality S&W guns on the used market, because the warranty is NOT transferable to the 2nd owner. Used S&W pistols have to be super discounted well beyond normal to account for their high failure rates and no warranty to the second owner. Add the inability to buy parts from S&W, and the used customer is more out of luck. Let the buyer beware.

[@reubenpickering7777]

I would question the purchase of an old, used Model 19, 66, 29, 0r 629. Those guns had some known durability issues. The current iterations less so, though. And if it's not one of those models, well, I don't think I'm ever going to put enough rounds through my 686 to wear it out, and probably not whoever inherits it from me, either. In any case, it's not too hard to spot things like deeply flame cut top straps, timing issues, or excessive play in the cylinder lockup that would be signs to stay away. As with anything else, If you don't know what you're looking at, or can't inspect before purchase, stick to buying new.

[@walterkleban2746]

The only serial number on a Girand M1 was on the receiver, the other numbers on the individual parts were drawing numbers that changed when the drawing was changed. Even new none matched.

[@clintonlayne9253]

I guess I won't be buying any used guns at the Tulsa Oklahoma Gun Shows 😂

[@Ja2808R]

That model 12 was the first 12ga I shot as a youngster couple decades ago. It was far from new then.

[@858tactical]

You have a nice ones guys!!! ;) I love my Cz 858tactical(original army made,semiauto converted) and my Finnish M39 war deployed..! Just steel and wood !

[@docholliday3273]

I've found some of my favorite guns were "used," and, for you, Steve, I happen to love 625's and the two I have are -3 and -2, both of which were used and the best guns I have purchased/traded.....same for my 686. It also helps if you know who you are buying from.

[@nicknaylor9895]

I bought a used Shadow Systems MR920 for the price of a Glock 19 gen 5 with an optics cut ($600 before taxes). It had maybe a few rounds through it. Fantastic deal that I’m really happy I got.

[@brianchu1710]

Been on the lookout for an optic cut MR920. You got a great deal on that

[@brianchu1710]

Where'd you end up getting yours from? It's lot harder to find compared to a used Glock 19

[@nicknaylor9895]

@@brianchu1710 Cabela’s just happened to have a used MR920 for sale so I picked it up

[@gregred78]

Wow, I buy most of mine used. Not only is it cheaper but, as long as you know how to check them they can be a great way to get more for your money!

[@Kau75]

Before the Pandemic, I bought, placed on lay away at the local gun shops…You have to know how to look at on the firearm when it’s used… mines are all name brand firearms and all operate smoothly when taken to the range…Try buy a used gun now at the Pawn shop or Gun show… you’ll be paying 2 / 3 times the price… Good topic to bring to this review 👍👏👏

[@rfortier1615]

I agree I should not protect my house with a Martini Henry but that police report would be funny

[@disturbedmaynard3873]

I have acquired a few used pieces, and have only had one unpleasant experience. So, I chalk that up as a learning experience. It is not going to stop me from purchasing anymore used ones. Will just be more careful

[@scabcrawler632]

I picked up a used cz 452 trainer in 17 hmr that would slam fire when you closed the bolt sometimes from a local auction house. Had an ffl ship it to CZ in Missouri. They have a gunsmithing program there. Evidently someone had installed a super davey trigger spring. They replaced it for free because of the program. Only cost me $25 for shipping.

[@liggerstuxin1]

I could never work with my dad. It would drive me crazy. Good relationship they have to do so.

[@covertguy1575]

A few years ago I bought a “used” Stainless Glossy (read: Really shiny and bright..😎) CZ-75B. The original owner never shot it. I paid $500. You can only imagine what those go for now. If you can find one for sale.

[@josephf7720]

Love that Model 12. That was my duck gun until steel shot. Still have 2 of the Heavy Duck Gun version

[@chipsterb4946]

I sold my Dad’s Winchester Model 12 (early ‘60s) to make storage space. Still regret it.

[@jaimezana3895]

Recently found a steal at a local gun store/ pawn shop. 1892 7mm Mauser manufactured in Berlin, numbers matching with original stock and all markings including a Star of David in the wood stock. From everything I can tell it is a Lidwig Loewe Chilean contract gun. I would say very good to great condition, clerk behind the counter had no idea what it was and when I inquired about the price he said “it’s just an old wood stock hunting rifle and we don’t even have any ammo for it, how’s $300 sound?” I couldn’t get my wallet out fast enough.

[@scabcrawler632]

I picked up a 1892 argentino mauser at an estate sale not too long ago. Pretty clean

[@anthonyfedock5321]

... there can be some great finds in the used gun market, not long ago I picked up a S&W model 39-2 used for a reasonable price it is in very good condition, original wooden grips and five original magazines but no box. I took it to the range and would experience a few FTE. Took it to a gunsmith and found the culprit was a worn extractor spring. Replaced said spring and the little Smith is back in action ...

[@bkeevers6719]

I have bought plenty of used guns and only two I at least partially regret. One is a Western Auto (Mossberg 500) for which I found it had a broken part that was only found by full dissambly. Cost me 1/2 of what I paid for it to put the new part on. The other was a Remlin 336 that would shoot 18 inches high at 100 yards with standard ammo. I swear that Remington put on a bent barrel. That I wish I had returned to the box store used rack immediately but I was stubborn enough that I made reduced recoil loads that compensated for the elevation.

[@Swishersweetcigarilo]

I'D LOVE TO SEE YOUR SMITH AND WESSON COLLECTION SOME DAY!

[@cervus-venator]

By no means do I claim to be a gunsmith, but I've Bubba'd (worked on, repaired, built) more than a few guns over the years. If I ever sell one of these I just direct potential buyers to my YT channel to see the gun being used after I worked on it. My latest was a Winchester Model 190 22lr. When I got it it, it had no bolt, main spring or guide rod and a couple of other little things were needed. I took my time and put a little money into it for parts and it is a fine running little gun now. It still isn't worth a lot of money, but it shoots great. Overall buying used needs to be done with caution and a little knowledge, however you can get some really good guns on the used market. I can't speak highly enough of my Browning Hi-Power or my CZ 70 or several of my Ruger P series that I purchased used.

[@jeffyhuey]

What say you about the Beretta M1951? Italian navy side arm. The locking lugs breaking?

[@LibertyFromLead]

Speaking of broken beyond repair or worn out etc. guns, I've never had one (yet), but this got me thinking what is the protocol if ever have one if don't want it? I would prob just keep it and let RIP but I'd like to know in case ever asked. I KNOW I don't want to "turn it in" lol. Also some may literally throw one away in garbage or scrap pile or think bc of serial # and liabilities if someone found it. I'm sure it happens. May be a good quick video topic idea idk. Appreciate the videos as always guys. 🐍🇺🇸

[@Ogrematic]

I got a used Mini-14 ages ago that eats steel shells all day flawlessly. Very happy.

[@Redeemedpooper]

Grandpa died left me an unused never shot ruger security six, it’s beautiful. might go pew it one day. miss you gramps!

[@DavidLLambertmobile]

I've purchased factory reconditioned pistols a few times. A few used DA revolvers. 2000s. I had a few PD trade-ins 🚔. Some semi auto models had simple parts, barrels that can swap out. I'd shy away from poor condition LE used guns, chewed up models. Frames can crack too 😟. The best choice are UNUSED surplus guns or PD army weapons the distributors got in bulk. They are clean, cheaper, easy to maintain.

[@alanstevens1296]

If you want a classic Smith and Wesson Model 29 you have to buy it used! I got mine a few years ago and it was built in 1979. It looks pristine and probably had less than 10 rounds fired from it. It had been owned by a collector for nearly its entire life. He surmised the original owner only fired it a few times.

[@rustybayonet1664]

I find most crappy used gun (people buy new and shoot them out of the box and cant get them working) just need cleaning and shooting to warm them up.

[@TUKByV]

I love the Marlin Model 60. They're not worthwhile to me used, though. Anyone know if they'll go back into production?

[@adampringle3943]

I literally just bought a Remington shotgun on Sunday that looks identical to that one.

[@ETHRON1]

I've been on both sides of that coin. Bought a Star BM9 surplus pistol, a little TLC and cleaning it looked and ran like new. The other was a JR Carbine 45 acp..it was totally screwed up (previous owner) but JRC is an awesome company, called them about it and said it was used they had me send it in and completely rebuilt it with updated parts "Free of Charge".

[@ETHRON1]

I've since sold both to happy new owners...

[@jonathanmays2600]

I bought a rem700 police model (all black, fluted bull barrel) and the first time I took it out I shot 3 three round groups and when I closed the bolt the tenth time the firing pin wasn't back. I thought huh that's weird so I racked it again and just got one of those weird feelings. I made sure to be pointed safely down range and when I clicked the safety off sure enough it fired. The guy spotting me said "that was quick" I said yeah cuz I didn't pull the trigger. Some ol bubba had done his own trigger work and took the sear down dangerously low for a "light" pull. I'd heard some horror stories about 700s and people sueing Remington for them randomly going off but from what I could tell it wasn't a factory error. Smithy fixed it and now it's a great rifle. Lesson is: step one, gun safety at all times, step two, be cautious with used guns the first few times

[@richardthomas6602]

Almost bought a colt lightweight commander from a gun shop that had an indoor firing range. They let me test fire it first. It had two failures to feed with the first magazine. I bought a new one instead and never had a malfunction with it.

[@cosmolean]

If your knowledgeable about the used weapon you purchase then buying used guns is fine. I collect military surplus and half the fun is getting some cosmoline covered relic, cleaning it up, doing a thorough inspection, checking headspace, making sure it functions correctly and fixing anything that doesn't work. I do a full field strip and sometimes complete disassembly. This teaches me about my new gun and how to maintain it. It's very satisfying to take something forgotten and unused and restoring it to working condition. This does not include changing, refinishing or rebluing (unless functional) in ways that would diminish it's collectability.

[@Mark-lm1oq]

Many used guns have been well cared for and the owner just needs to make “room” for new ones or just is thinning out stock.

[@benrent6625]

Bought a used Smith model 10 that an old guy Bubba's with a crimson trace grip for $350. Not bad put a new battery in it and it's a novelty. The irons are absolutely on though. Perfect wheel gun for what I wanted

[@hondasaurusrex6998]

Great video with a bad ending... looks like Steve's coffee was pretty bad... I wonder who's top hat was on the gun safe?

[@lanceschul]

I have a 742 Woodsmaster in 30/06. I reload for it. It’s not a precision rifle by any means but it’s fun.

[@divico1575]

A LAR Grizzly 45WinMag from 1983. Used, but in great condition.

[@Ramblinmanmarv]

I have bought many new and used weapons. I have never had a bad experience with buying any used guns. You just have to look over the gun and look for any and all unusual wear points. I have had more problems with new guns. I have two that I am trying to get rid of right now, lol. One is a howa 308 and the other is a ruger security 9.

[@libertarian1637]

I personally have bought and have had given to me a number of used guns; whether given or purchasing a used gun I’d always recommend cleaning and inspecting it prior to carrying or firing it. I personally have had great luck with every gun I’ve bought or been given. I have the benefit of being an armorer for certain makes/models and while I wouldn’t call myself a gunsmith I have a decent understanding of firearms and always ensure safe operation before I use it. I’ve also bought department guns, which can be a great deal, so long as you don’t get range guns from larger departments as they tend to be quite heavily used.

[@jonrolfson1686]

That Mauser C-96 (Broom-handle) was sitting there on the table the entire time, without even a single mention🧐 Of course, any C-96 will almost certainly by pre-owned. What would be the minimum condition one would check on a pistol with such an interesting take-down and re-assembly process?

[@ghostwolf4354]

Well, guess that means I couldn't own my 2nd gen Colt Single Action Army, made over a decade before I was born. That would be a terrible shame, as it's a favorite - right up there with my Hi Power and my Garand.

[@xxTenaciousExx]

I would say it's okay to buy certain used guns with the availability of aftermarket parts and direct factory replacement parts. Barrels triggers frames are easily obtainable and switchable SIG even offers a touch-up service for older models. So used guns are good to go by the way Cool pitch meeting easter egg

[@medicdadx3745]

What would be your recommendation on used/surplus guns from online retailers?

[@davidfisher12865]

I have a great mod 12 Winchester made in 1929,built like a tank, but it costs a fortune to have a classic bolt gun rebarreled . But oh to find an 03-04 Springfield, beautifully rebarreled in a fine synthetic stock, with a Leopold, tack driver for $350 at a pawn shop that doesn't know what they got is a good day.

[@Dopey_Fudd]

Is it bad to use the pistol racks like you had on the tables? I heard they can gouge the rifling. And if you hang them off a safe's shelf they will fall off.

[@EdTom82]

My best shooters are used. I just turned 40 and I've got a handful of S&W revolvers that are older than I am. Chances are that your old, used gun has hand-fitting, finishing and gunsmith work that would make a new version of the same cost triple the price.

[@SMichaelDeHart]

Have both both new and used and so far, no issues.