Pre 88 series TZ 75 or Tristar T120

[dhusky]

So I've been browsing gun broker and I've narrowed it down to two offers:

The first gun is a pre 88 series TZ-75 that was manufactured in 1988. The gun's had about 500 rounds through it in total and there's an very small amount of rust on the finish that's hardly noticeable. The seller is offering me a total of 7 15 round magazines along with 2 32 round magazines. The seller is offering me everything for $500.

My other offer is a Tristar T-120 that comes with 2 17 round magazines for $400.

I'm leaning on getting the TZ 75 however I've heard conflicting reports whether the late Pre-88' series of TZ's are fairly soft due to their high nickle content. The rusting doesn't concern me that much as it's minimal at worst. I'm attracted to the first offer due to the number of additional magazines that are included since their difficult to find.

I'm interested in the Tristar though since that gun has a manual trigger as opposed to the TZ's safety decocker. Thanks.

TZ-75: http://i.imgur.com/oSNiZxL.jpg
Tristar T-120: http://i.imgur.com/8bK8lzU.jpg

[jwc007]

If you intend to shoot this Pistol alot and use it for self defense, buy the Tristar T120.  This would be my pick between the two, although I'm not into desert tan.

If you want to collect a graceful classic older Tanfoglio Pistol and use it for occasional target shooting, the Tz75, shown in the pic, would be a nice addition to a collection.
All of those spare magazines make that a good buy since those are scarce.  Looks like one that I used to own.
Can you link to the ad for this one. I'm curious as to the seller.

[win308]

Didn't I read somewhere that the metal/heat treat began to improve in 1986 / 1987?? 

[dhusky]

What do you think the longevity of each handgun is? Why wouldn't you suggest a TZ to be used for self defense?

[jwc007]

Didn't I read somewhere that the metal/heat treat began to improve in 1986 / 1987??

True, the Metal Heat treating was significantly better during that time period and even better for the Series 88 ( 1988 ) Pistols.

What do you think the longevity of each handgun is?

Given proper maintenance of Springs and Lubrication, The Tz75 would probably last 20,000 rounds or so.
The Tristar would easily last 35,000 rounds or so.  Note that some Tristar and Canik Pistols have survived NATO testing of about 64,000 rounds.

Why wouldn't you suggest a TZ to be used for self defense?

You could, if you did not shoot it alot. Also, I would Loctite the Slide Barrel Bushing in place, as they often come loose.
There is always the trust factor with using older firearms for Self Defense, yet I have. But I knew their condition well.

[dhusky]

What do you think the lifespan is of a CZ 75 B?

[jwc007]

What do you think the lifespan is of a CZ 75 B?

About the same as the Tristar and Canik Pistols. About 35,000 rounds, given adequate maintenance of lubrication and springs.

Service life of any handgun employs a number of factors, the most important being the maintenance it is given and the power levels of the ammunition diet it is fed.

A few IPSC Champions have pushed the bounds of normal service life of their handguns, often rebuilding them every 50,000 rounds.
Rob Leathum is said to have pushed a ParaOrdnance Pistol over 250,000 rounds, replacing many parts often.