Used Guns: What to beware of?

[VT_Hunter1980]

There are 2 used Marlin 336's in .35 Rem in a local gun shop that have piqued my interest. Both are around $300. Can anyone offer advice on what to beware of when buying a used gun? You can get good prices on used stuff, but in the back of my mind I'm always wondering, "What's wrong with this that made someone get rid of it?"

[longrifle1000]

More times than not, a used gun has been traded in on a new one to offset the price of it. Just check it over well. Look down the bore, the action, and the overall condition of it. A gun will speak volumes of how it was treated if you listen. Has it been kept clean, free of scratches and dings? I have bought quite a few used guns, and never ran into any serious problems. Good luck.

[Vapodog]

You can get good prices on used stuff

Yes and you can pay too much too.

look for general condition like longrifle1000 mentioned...it was good advice.

As to the Marlin 336, I've rarely seen a bad one...if there's a problem with it it's usually obvious. Further Marlin will take care of it without an arm and a leg too. Good company for service.

If you want a 336 and you think the price is right then buy it. It's maybe the finest woods rifle ever made and still as good as ever.

[Rebel Hog]

ORIGINAL: Vapodog

Yes and you can pay too much too.

look for general condition like longrifle1000 mentioned...it was good advice.

As to the Marlin 336, I've rarely seen a bad one...if there's a problem with it it's usually obvious. Further Marlin will take care of it without an arm and a leg too. Good company for service.

If you want a 336 and you think the price is right then buy it. It's maybe the finest woods rifle ever made and still as good as ever.

Good advice!

[VT_Hunter1980]

Thanks for the advice. I know I could get a new one from Walmart for only $65 more, but that's $65 I could put into reloading gear for it. Plus, the last time I got a gun at Walmart it was a real hassle.

[bronko22000]

Better check some other shops, $300 seems like a lot of cash for a used 336. Of course, it could be the going cost in the area you live. I picked one up, like new a few years ago for $150 and itis inlike new condition. I didn't need it but couldn't passit up. The 336 is a good reliable rifle.

[Georgetownboys]

I have purchased a few guns at local pawn shops and if you are will not to rush you will get a deal. . .the others have provided some sound advice, so inspect carefully. Look for pitting too. Also forgive me but I don't know the name of it but there are at least 2 books out there that give you a good data on weapons to include blue book style pricing, Wallies carries them. Don't even need to buy it, just browes it once you have a gun in mind. Use that information to your advatage. . .no need to ever pay sticker for a gun at a pawn shop. The shops use these same books and set the price perhaps +20% of true value hoping to get folks who don't do there home work. Good luck. . . .

[statjunk]

I would say that $300 for a used 336 is a high. I would looking for the price to hover around $150-$175.

Tom

[heeze gutshot shortee]

thereonly $349 brand spankin new at gander mtn.