Gun placed on newspaper

The Complete Guide to Buying a Used Gun

 

There are a few things to keep in mind while purchasing old firearms. Making a successful purchase requires a basic understanding of secondhand firearms. When it comes to acquiring a  used gun, knowing what to look for in a gun store can make all the difference (and save you a lot of money in the long run). Here are some tips that you need to keep in mind when purchasing used firearms:

 

1) Be Safe When Buying a Gun Online

 

Online Gun selling

Credit: Daily Kos

 

The rise of the internet has completely changed the gun world for the better. You can now check inventories at gun shops across the country, explore national/regional/local web-based classifieds, and track used gun auctions in real-time all through a website.

Though the seemingly unlimited supply can lead to genuine savings, there are a number of disadvantages to buying used guns online, some of which are obvious and others that you may not have considered.

You can't get the feel of a gun by looking at it on a site. That may not be a problem if you're already familiar with the model in issue; otherwise, getting your hands on a pistol before buying it is essential. If you're not comfortable holding the gun in your hand, the money spent on it can go to waste. Despite the great deals, you may get from online stores, internet purchases are subject to additional fees for delivery and other issues. So be careful when purchasing guns online.

 

2) Look at Warranty

 

Gun sitting on warranty

Credit: VentureBeat

 

If you buy a used gun from a reputable company with a solid warranty and a track record of excellent customer service, you should be fine.

The trick is to learn about a company's warranty policy for secondary owners. The gun should be fine if the firm is known for its warranty and customer service.

 

3) Buy From a Local Dealer

 

Gun dealer

Credit: Citrus County Chronicle

 

Buying used guns from a local gun store is a win-win situation. You'll be able to scrutinize the gun to your heart's delight because it's physically in the store and might also be able to get some exclusive deals. You can properly inspect it for safety and functionality. You have as much time as you need to figure out if it's a good fit for you. Even better, if something goes wrong, a trustworthy dealer will work with you to address the problem.

Gun dealers offer a lot of value to the market. Besides, rummaging through local shops for hidden treasures isn't a bad way to spend a Saturday afternoon.

 

4) Make Sure the Dealer Is Federally Licensed

 

Man looking at guns on wall

Credit: USA Today

 

The federal government requires all firearms dealers, including pawn shops, to be licensed. According to the Federal Firearms Licensing Act, no business can sell firearms without first obtaining a license from the Attorney General's office.

For the duration of a dealer's federal license, he or she is allowed to transfer, ship, and receive weapons and ammunition between states and from foreign nations.

You should be aware of the laws governing the purchase and sale of firearms and ammunition in your state. There may be extra licensing requirements in your state. It's worth noting that in order to lawfully sell firearms and ammunition, a dealer must have the necessary permits.

 

5) Look at the Condition

 

Man holding gun

Credit: BBC

 

The most critical consideration when purchasing a mechanical gadget for practical use is that it is operable. It must fire when the trigger is pressed, the action must cycle and lock up, the feeding and extraction functions must be reliable, and the sights, safety, and other moving parts must all function properly. Otherwise, you'll be getting something that needs to be fixed.

Take into account the quality of the stock and metalwork on the outside when purchasing a used gun. Minor flaws that do not impede the gun's operability may be acceptable for budget-conscious buyers.

Make sure to also look for cracks in the stock or rust on moving parts. These issues may worsen over time, resulting in a damaged stock or a sluggish operation. Barrel dents or anything that resembles a crack or stress point in a receiver or barrel should be a cause for concern since these flaws could indicate safety hazards.

 5 Tips for Buying a Second Hand Gun

 

Things To Look For When Buying a Used Gun

 

Keep these things in mind during your firearm purchase hunt:

  • All of the controls should be operational. The controls include magazine releases, safety, and slide lock, among other things.
  • The iron sights should be in fine shape. If they're damaged, make sure they can be replaced and factor in the additional expense.
  • The crown of the barrel, also known as the muzzle edge, should be smooth and free of damage.
  • The barrel's rifling should not be harmed. Checking necessitates looking inside the barrel, which can be difficult without the right instruments. You may disassemble the rifle without tools and hold the barrel up to catch enough light to examine the rifling.
  • Make sure that the gun will lock open on an empty magazine if it is designed to do so.
  • Keep an eye on the trigger. Inquire whether it has been altered. Factory triggers are calibrated to a specified range of pull weights. Whether it's an aftermarket trigger, think about whether you'll need or want to replace it, and see if the vendor still has the original.
  • Check the function of weapons with exposed hammers to make sure they work properly.
  • Examine screw heads for unusual damage to the head or the frame that surrounds it. 
  • With permission and due safeguards, dry fire the gun in a safe direction.
  • Inquire if the seller has the firearm's original box, manual, and any other documents that came with it when it was purchased. If they don't, it's not inherently a red flag, but proceed with caution as you would with any private seller firearm transaction.

 

Summary

Purchasing a used firearm should not be a significant hassle. Going in with a basic understanding of what to look for, the law, and how to stay safe makes all the difference. When it comes to purchasing used firearms, the more information you have access to, the safer you will be. In fact, it's where you'll discover some true gems.

 

Back to blog