by gunnnie » 12 Jul 2020, 8:45 pm
The only pistols I currently own that are new are a Ruger Charger & a Ruger Single Six Talo Dealer Special. Thou to be honest, the Single Six was picked up second hand, unfired, for $500 under new price, so technically new. The rest are all 2nd hand and function well or better.
One brands you listed, I own, Taurus. A Tracker 6.5" 7shot 357mag stainless. It shoots very well, capable of keeping 7 within a 2" circle at 20m if I do my job right. The only hiccup with these revolvers is a propensity to misfire 1 or 2 rds every cyclinder of 7. I found this is due to a light hammer strike when fired in double action. The hammer doesn't come back as far as it does when set in single action. Ergo the hammer doesn't hit as hard.
I've tried softer primers and fiddling with the springs etc, no go. It's a known issue with these revolvers. That said, it isn't a show stopper and can be easily fixed by a competent 'smith. I'm not terribly bothered with it as I've got a S&W 686-3 6" that I can use in comps where double action is needed. The Taurus will see more work on the silhouette range where single action shoots are mandatory.
Don't be put off by the lower standard products, they'll give you a cost effective start in the sport. Add you get better and more involved/interested then you can look at upgrading to something of a better quality.
Also regards 2nd hand, research the make & model, know the weaknesses and what to look for in a worn gun. Check it over thoroughly before outlying your cash. Better still, get someone who knows to go with you when you check the gun out.