Is buying second hand weapons a bad idea?

It is a good way to get a gun for a lot less money. I've purchased quite a few guns in the past 40 years and about half of them have been used. I've never had a major problem with a used gun. (Bent sights on one, a couple have been pretty gunked up and need cleaning right away.)

Sorry, first off, I don't really consider a .22LR to be a "weapon." It's a firearm, but I wouldn't use it for defense, thus, not a "weapon" to me.

Second off, if you have to ask, then probably. Truth be told, those who ask this question really don't know what to look for, nor how to look for it, which is why buying used has such a bad reputation.

I would know exactly what I'm buying -- I go to pawnshops all the time and get the deals, because I know the difference between a barely-used firearm and one that's all shot out.

Finally, .22LR is a caliber.

There are many models in that caliber, revolver, auto, single shot, bolt action, lever action, rolling block, etc. etc.

Each one has points you want to inspect for wear.

So the problem with your question is that you haven't described a specific firearm, so I can't guide you as to what those points might be.

So I will answer your self-fulfilling prophecy thus: Yes, for you, purchasing secondhand might be a bad idea, because you obviously don't know what you're looking for.

It is just like buying anything else used. If you can properly evaluate it or know someone that can, you can save money. P.S. Almost ALWAYS, it is cheaper to buy something good than to buy a junker and try to fix it up.

The only way it is a good idea:

First - you research the model you are interested in, learn all the variations, learn about all the wear spots and where to look so you can judge the age and how much it has been used.

Second - you spend time on gunbroker.com and learn what the real used value is. I can assure you - there is no shortage of used guns that people want to sell at the same cost as a brand new one! Could be guy likes to dicker - more than likely he is looking for a fool to buy it.

Last - your have a friend with you that knows their stuff when it comes to used guns - or - you make it a point that the gun is checked over by a gunsmiths....... this might cost you from nothing to $75. A gunsmith who you have been buying ammo from might charge you nothing......... however, you walk into his shop expecting him to stop what he is doing and look at the gun you want to buy? That will cost you $$.

I have bought 3 used pistols over the last 3 years from gunbroker.com. These were all older out of production models I knew quite well. The sellers made it a point to take good pics on the known wear spots - the auctions had 14-20 pictures...... not just one or two. The sellers had a good track record and rating. The sellers accepted returns - this is a biggie - if no returns are allowed - run away!!

If you cannot do any of the above - you are probably going to get screwed. Best to buy new. I started shooting in 1966 and did not buy my first used gun until 20 years later - when I know what I was doing.

Depends on if you know how to judge the difference between a pistol in decent working conditions or one that is basically a metal paperweight. If you know what to look for, it is possible (at least in the US) to find a good deal.

I would suggest you examine the prospective pistol very carefully. Look for any signs of rust, damage, and take a very good look at the barrel. When I buy used guns I always bring a bore light and look at the chamber, bolt face, and barrel. You don't want any pits and dents much less rust. You should also (if permissible) run the action several times - the slide or cylinder should be smooth and consistent. It's not a 100% guarantee, but short of actually shooting it you really have no other means to judge the weapon.

I live in the USA and buying a second hand gun is risky as it could be stolen. I would suggest you only buy a second hand gun if the owner can produce his original sales slip showing he actually did buy the gun in the first place.

nope. around here, in us. thats how most of them are bought. just MAKE SURE TO GET A RECIPT! that way if its stolen or anything. u have proof that YOU didnt steal it! good luck!

Can be good idea or bad idea. Depend upon how well you know guns. Is best idea test them before buying. I see some have badly worn bores, thus quite inaccurate,

There is nothing wrong with buying second hand, as long as the item is in good condition.

If you can, take it to a range and shoot it several times to see if it works the way you think it should.

no