Used handguns can be a great purchase in many cases. Obviously, you normally get to save some money and deal with a like-minded gun owner. Still, purchasing any used item does leave buyers susceptible to some issues, so they must be careful. You have to know what to look for and what questions to ask in order to have a successful handgun purchase. Fortunately, you shouldn’t have too many problems if you follow these tips.
Ensure that the serial number exists and check the papers.
Firearms come standard with a serial number so that the weapon can be identified. Sure, an antique handgun might not have a serial number, but almost all modern firearms will. You should never buy a handgun that has a rubbed off or illegible serial number. In fact, it is against the law to remove serial numbers from firearms and can be illegal to possess such a weapon. The person you are trying to buy the handgun from might not be a criminal, but you would both be breaking the law through such a weapon transaction.
Inspect the entire firearm and all components.
Fortunately, handguns are extremely easy to take apart to inspect or clean. You should always take apart a handgun that you want to buy to ensure that all parts are there and working properly. Don’t just take a look at the outside of the firearm and then give it an “okay”. To make sure that you are getting a working gun, you will need to inspect the entire weapon and maybe even fire off a few test shots. Any seller that won’t let you inspect the gun has something to hide.
Don’t buy a handgun that is overly modified.
Like most things, a handgun can be modified in many ways. Scopes, lasers, and other items can be attached to the weapon. However, not all of these attachments are removable or reversible. You should avoid purchasing handguns that are modified in too many irreversible ways or you could end up unhappy with your purchase. In reality, you should just be looking for a handgun that gets the job done and works like it’s supposed to. Plus, some modified weapons can work improperly or even dangerously.
Give antique firearms some extra scrutiny.
Antique firearms are more valuable and rare than newer firearms, but they are also more likely to have some problem. Luckily, most sellers will give you a heads-up on any issues with the weapon. Dealers and most individuals will lower the price on the weapon if it needs to be refurbished in order to work. With that in mind, you need to give antique handguns a lot more inspection and scrutiny when you go to buy one.
Never buy a gun with a faulty safety switch.
Obviously, the safety on a handgun should work when you buy it. A faulty safety switch can get someone hurt or killed in the blink of an eye. The safety should be the first thing you check on the weapon. No matter what, you should walk away from a weapon that features a non-working safety or you could be putting yourself or others in unnecessary danger. Don’t risk buying a handgun without a good safety – it’s not worth it.
Buy yourself that handgun!
Purchasing a handgun used is a great way to save some money and get a great weapon. Of course, you need to be on your toes to recognize any issues with the weapon so that you don’t buy a faulty or overpriced weapon. Handguns aren’t that difficult to buy when you know what to look for, so you should just remember to make sure that the weapon is safe, that it works, and that it is worth the price tag.
For more information, visit Buying Your First Handgun.
