by smurfman on Sat Mar 20, 2021 9:26 pm
I have a few old models that I like. Those newer than 50 years aren't as interesting to me though I occasionally get an itch for an early Ruger 45 ACP or 9mm pistol. I have no idea why but it makes itself known every now and then. I don't get the same feeling for the S&W 59/69 series, probably because I had one for several years.
Various Savage, H&R, Colt, FN, and other makes of pistols in 25 ACP and 32 ACP are a hoot at the range. Those in 380 ACP aren't as much fun, especially the Savages. A couple of Iver Johnson pistols in 22 LR are also fun. As is a Mossberg Brownie and a High Standard Supermatic Trophy Military.
22LR IJ, High Standard, and H&R revolvers are fun though they can be a pain to load with some models as the cylinder has to be removed and the empty cases pushed out with the cylinder pin. In spite of that, they are decent knock about guns.
The same makes in 32 and 38 S&W are also fun though challenging. One needs to be aware of when the gun was made as those before 1910 often have "black powder" frames which will stretch when used with smokeless powder. My favorite 38 S&W pistol is a WWII era Webley which gets a few comments when it gets to the range.
All were purchased for less than $300 except the Supermatic which I inherited. The revolvers were especially inexpensive as the IJ and H&R could often be found for under $50 as late as 5 years ago. The most I paid for an IJ was $90 OTD and I paid that because it was #5 in the first year of production.
I like discontinued guns as one can often find them cheap. Their drawbacks are difficulties finding spare/extra parts but as an occasional use gun that isn't a major problem.