Adding a new gun to your collection is a noteworthy moment for any firearms enthusiast. But not every shooter can afford, or justify, spending hundreds or even thousands more on a brand-new version when a suitable used model is available. There is no shame in purchasing a used firearm, but there is some concern. It is crucial that you get not only what you paid for but also what you shopped for.

DO YOUR RESEARCH

The first step in avoiding a bad deal is knowing what a good deal looks like. Do you research before you shop and narrow your search to those models you are genuinely interested in. Next, determine what the average price is for these models. Luckily, the internet makes this easy. Now, when you get to the actual shopping phase, you will better understand the market and recognize whether you are getting a good deal or a raw one.

It is also essential that you research potential problems with the models you are interested in. Know which failures are common and which complaints or issues other owners have noted. Be on the lookout for any problems pointed out during the hands-on inspection.

INSPECT THROUGHLY

You can often get a pretty good sense of a firearm’s overall condition from a quick glance. Scratches, worn finish, or dings in the stock indicate a heavily used or improperly cared-for firearm. A heavily used firearm can still provide many seasons of reliable service, but one that has been poorly maintained is a sure sign of future disappointment.

After you have given it a once-over, it is time to do a function check. This is when you make sure everything moves, locks, and releases as it should. If you notice any problems, there is a good chance repairs are needed, and you should walk away.

Finally, you want to do a field strip. If the owner is wary of letting you tear apart their firearm, or you are uncertain how to do so, ask the seller to perform one for you. Inspect every piece thoroughly, looking for excessive wear, cracks, or other damage, as well as signs of repairs. If any repairs have been made, a reputable seller would not hesitate to disclose this up front.

TEST FIRE

Once the inspection is complete, and assuming you did not observe any issues, a test fire is the final step in determining whether your new gun will go bang when needed. Most dealers will have a range available for this purpose, either on-site or available to customers. Unfortunately, conducting a private sale may be more difficult. While I would not consider the inability to perform a test fire a fatal flaw, it would make me more diligent during the inspection.

RETURN POLICY

Unless you are absolutely confident in your inspection abilities and have conducted a flawless test fire, there is always some question about a used firearm’s potential performance. It may be necessary to have it inspected by a gunsmith or to test-fire it later. In either case, it is essential to understand the seller’s return policy.