Buying a used action?

[3alarmfire1301]

Hey guys (and gals) I’m new to the world of long range shooting, but a friend of mine is going to help me get started in PRS style matches this next year. I’m working on a build list so I can build my rifle over the winter.

My question is, how would you feel buying a used action. A Surgeon 591 SA specifically. What are things I should look/watch for on it as far as inspecting it? I did some reading on here how hard it would be (near impossible) to wear out an action, so if I get a good deal should I even be worried about the quality of it being used?

Thanks in advance!

 

[redneckbmxer24]

Just make sure it’s one of the small firing pin surgeons. You’ll definitely want it for the high pressure rounds you’ll likely run. Other than that I wouldn’t hesitate if the price is right.

 

[Precisiondada]

Was curious of this as well. Any issues with buying an action with say 1000 rounds on it?

 

[redneckbmxer24]

1000 rounds is nothing for an action. That’s just barely broken in.

 

[Supersubes]

I sold a surgeon that had 4400 rounds on it, and was much nicer after if wore all the wretched cerakote off the internals, than it did at 1k rounds. It just got better and better. Kick myself a bit for selling it, but I replaced it with an AW. I digress...

I’d look for galling on the bolt lugs and receiver lug abutments, as well as the cocking cam, and the surface it mates to on the striker. If they look like hammered shit, move on.


I love surgeons, but when you can buy a new Bighorn Origin for $825 and point and click shouldered or savage pre-fits for it going forward, seems kind of a no brainer choice over the surgeon. Being nitrided with a dlc bolt, it should outlast your entire family tree.

 

[3alarmfire1301]

Thanks for the replies. I’ll take a look at it soon and decide what I want to do. Appreciate the advice!