Life expectancy

[GeneralSumter]

So is there an expected amount of rounds you'll put through your personal defense gun, your CC gun, before you decide it's time to put a new model in the holster? Yes, it should operate and shoot well for 20-30,000 rounds before maybe a barrel change is needed or a new firing pin, but is there a point when you say I'd rather trust my life to a newer weapon?

I liken it to a car. Sure your camry or silverado is running strong at 125,000 miles, but after about 150,000, even though it gets you to work... you have your doubts about a 12 hour trip in it and you take the "newest" car in the family, or rent a new one.

Does the same apply to your PD gun? Just a brain picker while I pretend to work (and wait on my permit to arrive).

[Cooter]

I would take that on an individual basis. It depends on the gun, and the person. I personally would keep my glock on me until it rusts away, replacing parts as needed. I mean, if it goes bang everytime, why replace it?

[PascalFleischman]

I heard something that polymer-framed pistols aren't expected to live beyond about a 20K round life before everything gets too loose and/or the frame develops cracks.

Is there any truth to this?

[DarrellM5]

I'll occasionally replace springs and eventually the barrel. I don't see replacing the pistol unless it develops a problem.

[infntrysuicdekng]

if your gun is plastic or aluminum then you will have to replace the gun. a steel frame and slide ie 1911 will last forrever. i gunsmith these and have only had to repair minor parts ie sear and disconnect or firing pin spring barrel once. the great thing about a 1911 and i hate to hinder my buisness but you can do everything to keep your gun up yourself. if you put in a good sear and disconnect there is no limit to amount of dry fire drills you can do. the great thing about a steel frame is if you get slide wobble you can have a gunsmith tighten it for you a 1911 will out live you great grand kids if you care for it. a glock or a smith& wesson will wear down and eventually have to be replaced
oh and make sure if you get a 1911 carbon steel frame and slide, not aluminum or stainless these materials wear quickly reducing the life of your pistol greatly