Warning

 

Close
Confirm Action

Are you sure you wish to do this?

Cancel Confirm
AR15.COM
Armory Sponsor
2/8/2005 7:09:34 AM EDT
Hello,

My local gun dealer has a N.I.B. SW-3 up for sale.  It looks and feels great except the front handguard is a little wobbly.  I have no idea if S.W. makes decent firearms or if their G-3 clones are worth the cash.  I hope you guys can help me make a decision by educating me on the quality of the S.W. firearms & the reliability and the accuracy of the SW-3.  

I am not too knowledgable on H&K firearms and their clones but I am impressed by what I have seen and read.  

Thanks in advance
JP
2/8/2005 9:41:21 AM EDT
[#1]
I've heard many problems with factory built SW5s (HK94 clones) although the receiver itself is ok.  Not sure if the same goes for the SW3, but I would imagine so.

Is it a cast stainless receiver or a stamped sheet metal receiver?

What's the asking price?

Personally I would get a JLD PTR91, pay the money and cry only once.
2/8/2005 11:53:06 AM EDT
[#2]
Some of the SW3's were made on Interport FMP receivers which are quite good.  The early ones were the cast stainless.  The ones I have seen have been built with the early style cocking handle tubes that were not the free floating type.  These had a groove milled around the end near the front sight that allowed the handguard retaining pin to pass through.  This type had a loose handguard.  The cocking tube with the free floating hanger is preferred.
2/8/2005 12:15:39 PM EDT
[#3]
Hello,

Thanks for the replys fellas.

The asking price is $950.  The receiver is stamped and since the handguard is loose this should be one of the good ones.  I will take a look at it tonight and confirm all of the points.  2000, I will do some research on the PTR, I heard they were fine clones.

Thanks
John
2/8/2005 12:27:27 PM EDT
[#4]

Quoted:

The asking price is $950.


For that price definitely get a PTR, which would cost more or less the same, less if you look hard enough.



The receiver is stamped and since the handguard is loose this should be one of the good ones.  I will take a look at it tonight and confirm all of the points.


I don't think you read blfuller's post correctly, if the handguard is loose chances are it's a straight cocking tube which are less desirable.


 

2000, I will do some research on the PTR, I heard they were fine clones.

They are, between the SW3 and PTR I would definitely pick PTR.

2/8/2005 4:18:23 PM EDT
[#5]
Hello,

Blfuller, 2000 thanks a bunch, almost made a big mistake.  After doing some research on the PTR, and taking a second look at the SW-3 at the shop, the PTR wins hands down.  Blfuller, sorry for misquoting you.  Will keep the board posted on a purchase when I make it.

Thanks
JP
Armory Sponsor