1. GLOCK 19 GEN 5
The first gun I bought was a Certified Used Glock 19 Gen 5.
I wanted a reliable, compact, and capable 9mm handgun for self-defense and home defense. The G19 has been around since 1988, giving it more than 30 years of proven performance, and it’s currently in its fifth generation.
Glocks have a reputation for being very reliable, and I have found that to be very true. I’ve put over 1,000 rounds of all kinds of ammo through it, and I have not experienced a single jam or hiccup. That’s very reassuring.
I keep it clean and carry Super Vel 115-grain SCHP defensive ammo. I also added an Olight PL-Mini 2 Valkyrie that I keep on it at all times.
2. RUGER 10/22 TAKEDOWN
The second gun I bought was a Certified Used Ruger 10/22.
Like so many of us growing up, my first rifle was a Ruger 10/22. I probably put upwards of 25,000 rounds through it. And, yes, it jammed from time to time. But all I had to do was cycle the action to keep blasting.
For such a basic, inexpensive gun, it’s amazing how reliable, accurate, and fun it is to shoot. Plus, .22 LR ammo is inexpensive, and it's fairly quiet. I find myself shooting my 10/22 a lot without worrying too much about my pocketbook.
3. SMITH & WESSON 686-3
The third gun I bought was a Certified Used Smith & Wesson Model 686-3.
Ever since I was a teenager, I wanted a stainless 2.5-inch snub-nose S&W 686 with walnut grips. In my mind, it is one of the most beautiful guns ever made. But I found it hard to find the exact one I wanted.
I considered purchasing a new S&W 686 Plus version, which is a seven-shot revolver, but it only comes with black rubber grips. I contacted Altamont Company about purchasing a pair of walnut grips, but they told me they were backordered for months. So I held off.
And then it happened. I was perusing the Certified Used Guns section of Guns.com, and there it was, the exact 686 I was looking for. I bought it right away, and a few days later took possession of it. Despite being used, it was in excellent shape. It is a six-shot .357 Magnum or .38 Special revolver. Firing it is an absolute dream. I'm very happy to finally own the gun of my dreams.
4. RUGER MINI-14
The fourth gun I bought was a Certified Used Ruger Mini-14.
Guns.com got a shipment of former Maryland prison system Mini-14's a few months ago, and I had to get one. I’ve been a fan of Mini’s ever since Mr. T had one on the old "A-Team" television show. With the Ruger side-folding stock, it is a good-looking gun that is a lot of fun to shoot.
There are those who say that Mini-14s aren’t accurate, especially as barrels warm up. While I don’t think they’re sniper rifles, I believe they have decent accuracy, and I have also found my Mini-14 to be very dependable.
5. BENELLI M4
The fifth gun I bought was a Certified Used Benelli M4 12-gauge shotgun.
We reviewed the M4 a few months ago, and when I handled it, I immediately fell in love.
It was a dream to punch holes in paper at 10 yards with the tritium front sight and adjustable chokes. The recoil was very manageable even with the most stout rounds. The fit and finish were top-notch.
It’s no wonder that it was selected by the U.S. Marine Corps in 1998 to be their go-to shotgun. With its capacity of 5+1 rounds, this gun is capable of delivering absolutely devastating firepower should the need arise. It can also blast clays if you use it right and will deliver slugs right on target at 75 yards.
SUGGESTIONS?
What do you think of my collection so far? I'd love to hear your thoughts because I plan to buy at least five more guns this year. What do you think I should get?