Thinking to buy used

[Bundesheer]

I’m not so familiar with revolvers and have only a 32 s&w inherited from my wife family. I shot a 38 spec often when a close friend brought it to the range and like how they shoot.
I planning to go for a 38 spec or 45 revolver but have to buy used because of finance limitation.

What is to know about a used revolver? What should I look for? I hope that I become here some answers what to ask when buying a used revolver.

Thank You

 

[TenTea]

Some good info from our own forum and a link to more, contained within.

http://smith-wessonforum.com/s-w-revolvers-1980-present/193985-look-fors-buying-used-s-w-revolver.html

 

[Old cop]

Do a Youtube search on checking out a used revolver, there is some excellent info out there on what to look for and how. Even armed with that info I've been burned once so be careful.

 

[colt_saa]

In addition to the above recommendations, do you have a knowledgeable coworker or relative that might be able to lend a second set of eyes when you make this purchase.

Most first time buyers are so excited their minds overlook things that they notice a few days later at home. A second person not tied into the purchase often helps spot those things before you make the transaction.

 

[Bundesheer]

In addition to the above recommendations, do you have a knowledgeable coworker or relative that might be able to lend a second set of eyes when you make this purchase.

Most first time buyers are so excited their minds overlook things that they notice a few days later at home. A second person not tied into the purchase often helps spot those things before you make the transaction.

Hummmm. Good idea you right. The most friends are plastic frame dudes and obey M&P, Glock, Walther........ and not real fans of a revolver.
I discovered that a revolver is 1) not outdated and 2) a very good tool even for EDC. Opinion off.

But a second pair of eyes are always a good idea.

 

[klausinak]

Plus 1 to all of the above! In addition to the second set of eyes, a flashlight & screwdriver set are nice to have along. Some of the things you find under a set of rubber grips are not pretty. Not to say that rust under the grips is definitively bad, but it will give you cause to knock some $ off.

 

[bananaman]

I have had excellent luck with all of the used Smith revolvers that I have bought. Some sight unseen. IF you go to Gun Broker, or other similar, look at descriptions, pictures, and ask seller questions. Check seller feedback. Personally, I would go to a .38/.357 revolver before a .45 for price reasons. (I have a 45, 625JM) As suggested look at the revolver check lists if buying in person. Shame on me, but I bought a revolver earlier this year with a bad (pitted) bore. The outside and function were so nice I did not check it. (was not a Smith) Good luck on your quest! Bob

 

[Rusty 1]

A couple places I check...
Cock the pistol, grasp the cylinder and see how much "play" exists. movement should be minimal. Use a bore light to inspect the barrel bore_lands and grooves should look clean and sharp with no crud in the grooves. With the cylinder open look at the hole where the firing pin protrudes..should be clean and round (no off-center hole or scratch marks indicating a hammer/firing pin misalignment. Look at the crane (front of trigger guard when pistol is closed)..there should be a VERY thin line where pistol cylinder rotates)..a big gap indicates a serious problem. A little rust "freckling" or scratches on the wood grips are not serious faults but give you an opportunity to negotiate a lower price..

 

[22hipower]

If you're in a hurry or just don't want to spend a lot of time learning go to a gun dealer with a good reputation. Most dealers who have been in the business a long time and have good reps are honest and will be happy to help you with a used revolver purchase. Stick with an S&W or Colt, read the recommendations posted here, and you'll have no problem buying a reliable used gun at fair market value from a dealer. On the other hand, if you want to get seriously in to this hobby, the best way to learn is to look at a lot of guns and talk to a lot of "experts." Easiest way I've found to do that is to attend gun shows; most exhibitors are knowledgeable and enjoy talking guns and many will be happy to share their knowledge. Spend a few days talking, touching, and researching here and elsewhere on the Internet. It will take some work but you'll soon be able to identify quality firearms and be able to differentiate between a good deal and an overpriced or otherwise poor purchase. And if you buy many, you'll get burned along the way. . . .but most educations aren't free. My "BS" in revolvers and other firearms has been expensive but worth it. Enjoy.

Jeff
SWCA #1457

 

[loeman]

You have been given a lot of very good advice and I don't think I can add anything to what has already been said. However, I do want to say that I have NOT bought a new gun since 1998 and I probably never will again. There's just way too many used guns in fine condition to make me even consider or think about buying new.

Well, I better go now to check out my LGS's used cases and the pawn shops. Chances are better than good they'll have something that will catch my eye! Just wish I had a pocket full of cash!

 

[H Richard]

I have bought most of my guns used. I find I prefer the guns from the 60's and older. I have been burned a couple times, but not bad. I find that most handguns, unless used in competition, have not been shot much. Often many S&W have been sock drawer guns and nearly like new. Follow the "check out" routine and you will find what you want, and save a lot of money in the long run.

 

[ISCS Yoda]

Ditto to the above - plenty of good advice, you really should watch some videos, and definitely consult with a knowledgeable friend if you can. Also, I am not sure how many revolvers I have, I have plenty, and all but three or four were bought used. If you know what you're doing it's not that hard and, in the real world, most people don't abuse their guns, so the risk of getting a bad one, while it exists, is actually pretty small. Most responsible gun dealers, for instance, if they sell used guns, will price an abused one far differently than a good one.

***GRJ***

PS:

They are absolutely wonderful for EDC.

 

[Bundesheer]

Thank you for your fine response.
I have now a ton of things to check and consider buying a used gun. I can make me even a checklist.

Thank you again.

 

[colt_saa]

Thank you for your fine response.
I have now a ton of things to check and consider buying a used gun. I can make me even a checklist.

Thank you again.

List are great. That makes it harder to forget things.

A rather robust idol of mine always used to start by Making a List and then we would see him Checking it Twice.

This will help you find out which ones are not so good and which ones are Nice