Which used rifle? savage,remington,marlin??

Hey,

I understand the money part so if that is all you have to work with then I'd go with the Remington as it is a modern rifle that you could probably still get parts for. If you still have some time and can look around I'd wait for a good used Ruger 10/22, (semi-auto), or a Marlin 881, (bolt action). Either one would serve a new shooter well. I'd stay away from some of the older bolt actions as they wear out and become unsafe and that may be why they are up for sale. Just be careful and look the gun over carefully. I don't mind buying a used gun even if it looks bad as long as it is all there and functions like it should and the price is right. Good luck.

Bill

P.S. Also, often over looked as good plinkers are the Rossi pump actions. I picked up one of the older Rossi's today and it shoots great. When I saw it I noticed that it was used and this store doesn't usually carry used guns. I asked if it was a trade in and the girl told me that it was a "repo". I asked her if I heard her right and she said that I did. Apparently they still sell guns on credit. Fill out a credit app. and get approved and walk away with a new gun, no money down. The interest is terrible but this guy didn't mind since he never made a payment on the gun. I told her that I'd hate to be in the business of repossessing guns. She said the fella that did it was a big mean looking sort. All the more reason to shoot first and ask questions later. No thanks.

Bill

The Marlin 88 was a promotional model. Don't know much about it. Made in the mid 1940's to mid 1950's, I think. If the rifle's in good condition, it might be a real find. It's a pretty cool little rifle, tube loads from butt end of stock. On the other hand, if the springs are shot, and the bore's no good, you might be wasting your money.

I would not get the Remington. I've never heard good words about the Viper.

The Savage Stevens could be a good gun. I had a 987 that was a good plinker and a lot of fun -- reliable and reasonably accurate (1.25" at 50 yards off a bench). The 62 is a pretty recent model, still some new old stock for sale from time to time. The Stevens rimfires are good plinkers, but the Marlin will probably have a better barrel.

If you do buy a gun, make sure you check out that the gun is safe. Does the safety work? Will the gun slam fire? Will the gun load and eject rounds properly. I would have a gunsmith or very knowledgable person check it out to make sure it's safe before you give it to your brother.