Durable vs. Parts Availability

[seeker_two]

This may unintentionally read like a SHTF thread; but I'm more concerned about a semi-auto ban and more anti-RKBA government actions in the near future....


I'm planning to invest some of my meager funds into buying a few semi-auto firearms (esp. 9mm pistols). Since I don't have a lot to spend, I'm wondering if I should focus more on buying firearms that are extremely durable & require little care (i.e. Ruger P-series, CZ75-series, AK-series) but future parts availability could be a problem; or firearms that, while nearly as durable, have easier to find parts---even if some "creativity" may need to be used (Beretta 92, Glock, AR-series)?

What would you consider the "best buy"?

(...and yes, I know I've posted this question on another forum...I want their viewpoints, too...)

 

[NWPilgrim]

I go for both. I like the Glock, AR, AK, and Garand because they are pretty durable (service proven) and have lots of parts available.

 

[Tamara]

It doesn't matter how "durable" a gun is, parts availability is important. CZ's and AK's break just like Anschutz match rifles and Brown Bess flintlocks.

If you shoot guns, they will break. If you are planning on being a serious shottist and not a 50-rounds/month hobbyist, keep spares on hand for your guns, because you will need them.

 

[10-96]

I'm glad the OP asked those questions. Kinda makes one think.
All those firearms are of decent quality, all go bang, all have the chance of needing a replacement part(s), and they all certainly have parts.
I looked at a few on-line 'parts kits'. Ok, I didn't see any for the Ruger or CZ assault types. So, looking at the AR and AK's... There's not a whole lot of parts in either one that will be likely to poop out in short order- but poop they may. Then I thought about what it would take to repair / replace any of those parts and what tools may be needed. In short order- I don't know. Get what you can afford, decide for yourself what levels of accuracy you want... Hmm, that brings up a good point... if your marksmanship skills need help- the AR can help you more. There's only so much accuracy you can squeeze out of an SKS or AK. With a swap of uppers, you can go from a M4 tactical rig to a heavy barrel long range or match type rifle.

 

[seeker_two]

I'd better clarify....when I'm referring to Rugers or CZ's, I'm thinking more of the semi-auto pistols (P89, P95, CZ75, P-01, etc.) than rifles--although the rifles bear some thought, too (esp. the Ruger 9mm one that takes P-series mags.)....

Sorry I didn't clarify earlier....

 

[Tamara]

Doesn't matter...

Pistols... rifles... they break. If you're planning on keeping them for the long haul and shooting them more than the typical "50rd/month" hobbyist, you need spare parts.

When you see someone say that their Blastomatic 2000 has never malfed or broken, you know they haven't shot it enough.

 

[Tom2]

A gun that is both durable and probably easiest to get parts for is the 1911. Then there is the Makarov pistol. Durable and reliable in the better versions, and lots of spare parts for now, usually cheap to stock up on. Or there is that CZ 52, sort of a specialised gun IMO with the 30 cal bullets, but I think they are durable as the Mak probably, and also lots of spare parts for the time being, don't wait to get essential spare parts for the last two though. They are imports and the plentiful cheap spares might dry up in the future. Most good revolvers are durable if not abused with over charges and US brands except maybe Colt have plenty of spare parts floating around. There are plenty of nice 9's that are durable but spares are hit or miss on those. Can be had but probably from fewer sources and more expensive. Well have a backup gun for the main one, as durability or spares is never 100% guaranteed.

 

[Tamara]

Tom2,

The CZ-52 is a good design, but indifferent manufacturing standards resulted in durability issues, most notably with the little roller locks and with firing pins. If one is planning on doing any serious amount of shooting with one, it would be a good idea to stock up on those.