Parts from Numrich vs First vs Poppert's?

[Nesmith]

Does anyone have any experience or recommendations on the quality of parts from any of the major parts sources for pre-WWII revolvers? I have a 1917 Brazilian contract that I would like to obtain a few spares for.

I have ordered from Numrich (aka gunpartscorp) in the past with variable results. Many parts have arrived in like-new condition with storage and handling wear, while other orders have yielded parts that I considered unusable.

Any insight would be much appreciated. Thanks!

 

[tennexplorer]

My last few dealings with Numrich have not been good. My last order which was an ejector rod had cutting torch marks on it. I sent it back. Jack First I think is the best. They know their stock and they will work to find it while you are on the phone. I have only dealt with Poppert's once. The item (a cylinder) was in great condition, but was the wrong caliber.

I would recommend in addition George in SD, a member on here. He has a significant inventory.

 

[robertrwalsh]

No experience with Popperts. Numrich and First I have dealt with, with pretty good results for both.

 

[iPac]

I consider any of the parts shops a big gamble, especially for older guns. You got to face it, most all vintage gun parts still in existence are "used", and considering the more hand fit nature of vintage guns, the odds of used parts working drops decreases.

If I needed parts, I would try to locate new old stock on ebay. If I couldn't do that, I would look for reproduction parts from outfits like Jack First. Last resort would be buying "used" from large parts companies, but this is personal choice and sometimes they might be your only shot. So it doesn't hurt to use them if necessary, but make sure you have enough skill to recognize part quality and usability.

 

[chief38]

I've dealt with all of them many many times because it is very rare to get all the parts you need from one source - even for the same gun. Numrich is a bit of a pain because you order the parts and don;t know for a few days if they are actually in stock and available. With J. First and Poppert you know right away, but you may not get ALL the parts you need from any one source.

In the past I have received used parts from Numrich that I was not happy with and they did replace them with better ones but most of the time their stuff is pretty good. Just so you know, it is very common to get used or take off parts from many suppliers as some of the guns we have are very old and parts new parts have not been in stock for many years.

 

[dfariswheel]

Among pro gunsmiths Jack First has always been the go-to parts source.

Today, First is manufacturing high quality hard to get parts for guns like Colt revolvers.

When you call First you get a person who knows her stuff and you almost always get what you need.

Much of the "like new" or "replacement" parts sold by Gun Parts Corporation are actually made by Jack First.