Buying a firearm

[PIT Archer]

I am looking into buying a .22 rifle, as some of you might remember, but since I am relatively new to this area I have a question about buying. What do I look for when buying a gun to make sure nothing is wrong with it. Like when I buy a guitar I make sure the frets are good, the neck isn't bent or curved, and stuff like that. How do I check a firearm to see if it has any problems?

[norahc]

New or used?

New: Check for smoothness of operation and controls, and most importantly how it feels in your hands.

Used: Check for rust on all metal surfaces, check smoothness of operation and controls, check barrel for rust and fouling, check sights, etc...

[GlassWolf]

If you're buying used, and you don't know what you're doing in regards to examining a rifle (no harm in that) have the seller meet you at a local gun store (LGS) and have a professional give the rifle a once-over for you prior to purchase.

[Robomick]

If you do buy use make sure you know what the new price is. There are a lot of people trying to sell used guns for slightly under the new price. If that's the case buy it new.

[C-C]

I would have to agree with mister GlassWolf. However if that is impossible you need to most importantly look for any cracks in any metal surface. Some people don't take care of their rifles and cracking is the most dangerous thing in a rifle.