Judging a pre-owned shotgun

[Swiss Shooter]

Specifically, I've had the Mossberg 500 ATP on http://www.waffenboerse.ch/csc_articles.php?nPos=0&saSearch[special]=boerse&saSearch[category]=sport-pumper&saSearch[word]=&VID=g3luOIDcfAE0O7j2# set aside for me. It'll be my first shotgun if it's any good. I'd appreciate any pointers you guys can give me for checking out its condition. What do I need to watch for?
Btw, the price translates to about $240.

[Jseime]

Given that it is a mossberg unless it is completely mashed up and rusty it should function like a champ. See if you can get some dummy rounds for it and cycle them through so that you can test its function. Other than that if the finish is nice and the gun is not rusted go right ahead.

[jdm357]

Every shotgun I own was bought used, and a Mossberg 500 (I don't own one, but have shot several) seems like it'd be in pretty good shape inside (being a pump) if it was in decent shape on the outside; so basically what Jseime said.

Personally, I am rough on the pump shotguns, so used only makes sense for my situation. I clean them and all, I just carry them in my jeep often, something I'd never do with my rifles. They can take all kinds of abuse, so I think you'll be fine; however, you never know.

(BTW that Mossberg looks like it's in better shape than any used shotgun I have bought, but then again I'm not too particular on a pump's looks)

[Dave McC]

First, unless someone has run over it with a vehicle of at least 5T GVW, or let it rust solid, it'll work for decades.

Mossbergs may not last for quite the round count an 870 might, but chances are it'll outlast everyone here.

The price isn't bad, but no steal.

Enjoy...

[Jseime]

That's an interesting point Dave. I'd like to see someone take a 500 and an 870 and run them both until they break and just see how long each one takes. Probably extremely expensive but it would make for a good thread.

[Dave McC]

Dunno about Mossies,J, but 870s tend to crack the receivers around the 250,000 round mark.

Anecdotal evidence is suspect, but I've seen reports of 500s with round counts over 50 K, still going.

[Swiss Shooter]

Sounds good. I'll be able to check it out in person in about two weeks, after my permit comes in. Pics will be added when I bring it home.
Thanks for the life span hints, too. Another thing learned.

[obxned]

You can't go too far wrong. If it's rough on the outside yet has clean innerds, you've got a well used, well loved and cared for gun. It will probably outlast you.