Used guns

[Stevey]

My neighbor told me he’s planning to sell a few guns from his safe that he doesn’t use anymore. The price seems reasonable but it’s clear these guns have been used quite a bit. What’s the best way to check them out before I buy? I want to be respectful but I also don’t want to end up with something that’s in bad shape.

 

[6BRAI]

The inside is more important than the outside. A borescope is essential.

 

[Adies Gunny]

You don't say what type of guns being sold but here are some general recommendations in addition to checking the bore as 6BRAI suggested.

All guns - Look for bulges or dents in barrels. Look down the barrel to insure it isn't bent. If you don't have a bore scope or even if you do a bore light is a must.

Revolvers - Check cylinder lock-up and end play. Are round easily inserted and extracted from each chamber? Feel and listen for any odd sounds when cocking the hammer. Is there any gritty feel during operations, i.e. cocking or uncocking the hammer ot opening and closing the cylinder? When cocked push against the hammer with your thumb to ensure the sear notch isn't damaged or prone to slipping. Dry fire to get a feel for trigger pull and function. Are the grip panels loose?

Semiautomatics - Check magazines for function. Depress the magazine follower or if possible load and unload the magazines. If possible disassemble the magazines and look for burrs, deep scratches, bent springs or other signs of misuse. Cycle the pistol listening and feeling for gritty operation. If possible cycle a few snap caps through the magazine and chamber. Note any looseness during operations/cycling. Are the grip panels tight and firm. Check operation of the safety/safeties.

For rifles and shotguns follow the same general function checks paying specific attention to safeties.

I'm sure there are much more knowledgeable folks on here that can add to this discussion.

 

[Alan]

You don't say what type of guns being sold but here are some general recommendations in addition to checking the bore as 6BRAI suggested.

All guns - Look for bulges or dents in barrels. Look down the barrel to insure it isn't bent. If you don't have a bore scope or even if you do a bore light is a must.

Revolvers - Check cylinder lock-up and end play. Are round easily inserted and extracted from each chamber? Feel and listen for any odd sounds when cocking the hammer. Is there any gritty feel during operations, i.e. cocking or uncocking the hammer ot opening and closing the cylinder? When cocked push against the hammer with your thumb to ensure the sear notch isn't damaged or prone to slipping. Dry fire to get a feel for trigger pull and function. Are the grip panels loose?

Semiautomatics - Check magazines for function. Depress the magazine follower or if possible load and unload the magazines. If possible disassemble the magazines and look for burrs, deep scratches, bent springs or other signs of misuse. Cycle the pistol listening and feeling for gritty operation. If possible cycle a few snap caps through the magazine and chamber. Note any looseness during operations/cycling. Are the grip panels tight and firm. Check operation of the safety/safeties.

For rifles and shotguns follow the same general function checks paying specific attention to safeties.

I'm sure there are much more knowledgeable folks on here that can add to this discussion.

Good rundown, that covers most of the real-world checks that actually matter before buying. The only thing I’d add is paying attention to prior bubba work like stripped screws or uneven wear, since that often tells you more than cosmetics.