What to Look for When Buying a Used Shotgun (VIDEO)

By Kristin Alberts

If you’re in the market for a used shotgun — pump-action, semi-auto or break-open — but are unsure about the condition, gun shop owner Mark Micoley has some tips that will make you a more confident shopper.
“Your biggest thing is just general condition,” Micoley said. “Look at (the shotguns), look for rust, cracks, or any damage to them. If you’re lucky enough to be somewhere to go out and shoot them, that would be the most fun.”
Micoley has been in the gun business for more than 30 years. At Rock Ridge Shooter’s Supply in northern Wisconsin, he describes himself as the store’s “chief, cook, and bottle washer.” He walked Guns.com through the process of buying a used gun. He started with rifles and will now show how to inspect shotguns.
An informed buyer always examines the gun’s exterior carefully. Such a study will quickly show that the Browning A5 shown here has had a cracked buttstock replaced at some point in its life, reducing its value. (Photo: Kristin Alberts/Guns.com)
Kicking the Tires
Micoley explained the first step to inspection a shotgun is making sure the gun is unloaded and safe. That step, however, also affords you the opportunity to work the action.
For a

Source: Guns.com