Decommisssioned weapons

[25-5]

I understand what decommissioned weapons are. However, I have tried to find the reasons why. Are perfectly safe firearms used or those that are unsafe? More common in some countries than others? Do they function other than chambering a cartridge? Are they full of holes and welds, or look like they would function? Do they have value?
Any general info would be enlightening.
Thanks

Information

Warning: This is a relatively older thread This discussion is older than 360 days. Some information contained in it may no longer be current.

[Seaspriter]

I understand what decommissioned weapons are. However, I have tried to find the reasons why. Are perfectly safe firearms used or those that are unsafe? More common in some countries than others? Do they function other than chambering a cartridge? Are they full of holes and welds, or look like they would function? Do they have value?
Any general info would be enlightening.
Thanks

Be sure to see this thread: "Combining a DP Enfield, a Shooter and a Gunsmith ended up with catastrophic failure!"
Armourer Peter Laidler's comments are priceless.
For Enfields, if you see DP Markings, while it technically means DRILL PRACTICE, in reality it means DEFECTIVE PARTS.
In the thread, you will see the potential of being seriously hurt buying certain decommissioned guns. Some guns are decommissioned because they are surplus, others obsolete, and those which present the greatest risk because they are defective.
Caveat emptor.
Robert

[25-5]

I new the info had to be here. Thank you, I'll check it out.

[Brit plumber]

It could be down how you interprete the word decommissioned. Deactivated arms are modern decommissioned guns for the collectors market. DP or drill purpose are weapons given a second lease of life by enabling the soldier to mimic how he would use a gun without damaging a Serviceable gun. There are obviously other ways to decommission I.e. To crush or cut up but I don't think that's what you want to know about.

[25-5]

I went to the old thread as Seaspriter suggested. That led me to other threads. My understanding of the subject is much improved. Thanks to Mr. Laidler as well.

[Seaspriter]

25-5 -- I'm relatively new to Milsurps and always amazed with the wealth of information on this website. Thank you to all the "League of Experts" who are willing to share their knowledge with collectors. It reflects the essence of how the M-1 Carbine supply chain shared improved manufacturing techniques and shared parts supplies during WWII. When one supplier ran out of parts, other suppliers to their Prime Contractor made sure the other Primes keep production lines flowing. The MilSurps experts are continuing that honored collaboration by keeping the supply of knowledge flowing, thus keeping the legacies of our historic weapons alive and well, decades later.

There is an adage/principle that says "Sharing Expands, Hording Contracts." Our knowledge and understanding is being deeply expanded. It always starts with someone like you or me asking a questions; in short order a team from around the world quickly lends aid. Remarkable!

Robert (USNR, Vietnam '72 Operation Linebacker)