Generally, i don't buy new. I'm one of them guys that knows a deal when i see one and if i'm feeling flush at the moment, i want it and the price is right, i'll buy even if the owner claims that it's not very accurate.
Most, i say most of the long guns that i have bought would shoot way better than their previous owners could. I realize here, in these pages, is not a good example of what the average Joe out there can do on the bench. I myself make no claims as a shooter of gnat's asses but i do have my minimum requirements as to how well i can get the rifle to perform and rarely has that not come to be.
I like to be pleasantly surprised when a new, to me, rifle packs em in tight right off the get go but if the price is right and it's something that i've been looking for...i don't mind going thru a good extensive cleaning, tinkering through a triage list making sure everything is in order, trying a few groups out of several different factory labels, or even working up handloads especially for the likes of that particular weapon.
Unless i'm really strapped for time, getting the gun on a great deal and it being one that i've wanted is most important to me. I'll get er to shoot well most, i say, most of the time.
Joey
"It's all about knowing what your firearms practical limitations are and combining that with your own personal limitations!"