One of my kids has been shooting with a Jr Rifle club for a couple of years and enjoys the activity. She's not winning championships, but she enjoys the competition. She's headed to college next year, but my youngest is showing an interest now, so I was considering the idea of picking up a target rifle for us to have in the house.
Our rifle club has some good loaners that they let the team use (Anschutz 1903's) , so I don't HAVE to get one, but if there are forums or groups that regularly sell used ones I could start lurking there and grab one if a good deal comes along.
I presume the honest answer is that a "great deal" on one of these is like finding a unicorn?
It is not impossible to find a good deal on a target rifle, however its is more challenging to get the CORRECT target rifle - especially for a jr female shooter. The "vintage" rifles are often too heavy and lack the modern ergonomics needed for successful prone and position competition. Stick with something recent as the triggers and stocks are typically much more adjustable also.
Depending on your daugher's stature, an Anschutz 1903 is not a bad introductory model and they often pop up on Target Talk for a decent price with sights. On occasion, an older 1807 may appear for nearly the same price as a 1903 - and the 1807 has a significantly better action and trigger. As for older Walthers, they are out there but I would stick w/ Anschutz or Feinwerkbau for an older rifle. (Some of the older Walthers do not accept all of the modern Anschutz/FWB accessories as their sights had different dovetail sizes and the accessory rail was also different.)
I never recommend any of the auction sites and the sellers often have little idea on what they are posting for sale. I prefer to stick within the known competition community as if there is an issue it is more likely to be resolved vs dealing blind on an auction site.
Posting a WTB is a good approach on TargetTalk might also shake the trees vs just waiting for someone to get a used rifle posted.
Another option is to attend some local matches where rifles are often available. In many instances, an honest seller will let your daughter shoot the rifle before purchase. In any instance, if they don't want to let you shoot it first, pass on it. Again, buyer beware if the "spidey senses" start to tingle.
With junior shooters and level of interest, its always a challenge to balance how much to spend on a rifle. If she is showing only moderate interest, it might just be better to invest in a well fitting shooting coat, sling, glove and mat for right now and still use the club rifle until her interest is more defined. When interest is greater, go for the pants and boots along w/ the rifle. The last thing you want to do is drop $1500 and in a week or two find out that interests/hobbies have changed.
I've been shooting smallbore competitively for almost 40 years. I will PM my contact info that if you have any questions you can contact me an I will give an experienced opinion. Hope this helps.
Best Regards,
ken
