ANSWERS TO QUESTIONS

[williamlayton]

We have had several thousand discussions here about problems with semi-autos.
What are the most common fixes needed in weapons which malfunction or common problems which really need attention from the start.
It might be a good subject for those just getting into these weapons.
I say that the three/four most common things I have looked at with any new gun are:
Ejector
Magazines
Sights
Trigger

Blessings

[jhm]

You have it, and I might add ammo, type brand and shooting technique.   Jim

[Empty Quiver]

A thorough cleaning of gun and magazine both inside and out. The packing / preservitive used at factory is generally unsuitable as a lubricant, and must be removed and replaced with a good gun oil, before you make any judgement as to its reliability. Second, be very very sceptical of aftermarket magazines, if you have ever heard " well they worked fine for me, maybe it's your gun " run away from them. Have someone else shoot it before passing judgement, it could be you afterall. Ball ammo  generally feeds better than HP, if it won't feed FMJ it's likely not an ammo problem.

[Autorim]

Empty Quiver pretty much said it all. I never fire a gun until if has been thoroughly cleaned and lubed. An air compressor is invaluable in getting rid of stuff after is is soaked in solvent.

[Savage]

 Magazines, cleaning/lube, ammo, and technique. And usually in that order.
Savage

[44 Man]

And if you buy used, replace the recoil spring with a good Wolfe standard wt. one.  44 Man

[rockbilly]

I have to agree with the comments made here.  Most of the problems I have experienced with autos has been with mags and ammo, replacing springs is always a good idea and I always clean every new or used gun before firing.  Funny, if I get 'em dirty it's OK, but I don't want someone else's dirt on my gun!

PS I owned a Winchester model 100 in .308 back in the early sixties, I traded it to a friend for a Winchester Model 70.  I have always wanted to replace the gun and finally found a 1964 model 100 at a very good price.  She is now mine, I removed the wood, vated it in dry cleaning fluid, re-oiled and she is ready to go to the range.  If she performs this will be my "NEW" deer gun.