Everyone is looking for a solid deal, especially in the gun industry. But what about refurbished firearms? The term conjures thoughts of a salvage title car, but is it the same thing? 

Several big companies sell “refurb” or “rebuilt” firearms, with Glock one of the most popular. Why should you be confident when you buy a Glock rebuild? 
 

What Qualifies a Firearm for a Rebuild?

First, we must address what the life of the firearm before it was rebuilt. While “rebuilt” seems like an aggressive word, the firearms were not clapped-out Glocks that saw thousands of rounds of use. 
 

In most cases, rebuilt Glocks started off as floor or display models, maybe even a sample run that was made to show off the firearm. Rarely will any of them have any round count, and certainly not a high round count.
 

Related: Glocks and Their Many Variants

In other cases, the firearms did not pass quality control due to cosmetic blemishes. Often, these will have a minor scratch in the finish, a scuff on the frame, or an issue with the finish coat. These firearms have basically no round count on them at all, aside from a possible test round at the factory. 
 

What Does 'Rebuilt' Mean?

Once a firearm is returned to Glock for a rebuild, Glock replaces any worn parts, refinishes the metal parts and lists the firearm as a “rebuild.” Once complete with a new finish and new parts, the firearms are sold at a discount as rebuilds, designated by Glock’s orange label. 
 

The Value

There is great value in Glock rebuilds, and even factory refurbished firearms in general. When you purchase a factory refurbished model, you are basically getting a brand-new firearm with its full life in front of it. You should feel full confidence in picking up a rebuilt firearm, while also enjoying a lighter cost at the register.