Handguns can be a great purchase in many cases. Obviously, you tend to save some money and act like a gun owner. Still, buying any used item does leave buyers susceptible to some issues, so be careful. You need to know what to expect and what questions to ask in order to make the right handgun purchase. Fortunately, you shouldn’t have too many problems if you follow these tips.
Make sure the serial number exists and print the cards.
Firearms come standard with a serial number so that the weapon can be identified. Sure, an old antique handgun might not have a serial number, but almost everyone wants newer guns. You should never buy a handgun that has a defaced or illegible serial number. In fact, it is against the law to remove the serial numbers from guns and possess such a weapon. The person you’re trying to buy a handle on, don’t be unscrupulous, but you’d both break the law through such a weapon transaction.
They mean the whole firearm and all its parts.
Fortunately, handguns are extremely easy to take apart for inspection or cleaning. You should always buy a handgun separately to make sure all the parts are there and working properly. Don’t just look outside the firearm and give it an “okay”. To make sure you get a working gun, you need to inspect the entire weapon and maybe even fire a few test shots. Any seller who won’t let you inspect the gun has something to hide.
Do not buy a handgun that has been modified too much.
Like most things, a handgun can be modified in many ways. Scopes, lasers, and other weapons can be attached to the weapon. But not all such affections are removed or converted. You should avoid getting manuals that are modified in too many irreversible ways or you will end up in a miserable purchase. In fact, you only need to look for a handgun that gets work done and works. as it’s supposed to be. Plus, some modified weapons can work incorrectly or even dangerously.
Give the old guns some extra scrutiny.
Antique guns are more expensive and rarer than newer guns, but they are also more likely to have a problem. Fortunately, most dealers will give you a heads up on any questions you may have. Marketing and most individuals will lower the price on the weapon if it is needed to refresh to work. With that in mind, you should give antique handguns a lot more attention and scrutiny when buying.
Never buy a gun with a faulty safety switch.
Obviously, when buying, the safety on the handgun must work. A faulty safety switch can injure or kill someone in the blink of an eye. Safety should be the first thing you look for in a weapon. Regardless, you should walk away from a weapon that has non-working safety features or you could put yourself or others in unnecessary danger. Don’t risk buying a handgun without a good safety – it’s not worth it.
Buy yourself a handgun!
Buying a used handgun is a great way to save some money and get a great gun. Of course, you need to be aware of any issues with the weapon in your fingers so as not to buy a defective or overpriced weapon. Handguns aren’t hard to buy when you know what to look for, so just remember to make sure the gun is safe, that works, and is reasonably priced.
For more information, see Buying Your First Handgun.
