With you being an experienced Gunsmith and asking for specific models, I’ll go ahead an lay out a list of my limited arsenal:
Saiga 12 - 12 Gauge Semiauto (factory, as of right now /cry )
PTR91 - 7.62x51 (.308 Win - Good for long distance calls, but enough of this one, and my shoulder hates me)
DPMS AR15 - 5.56 (most fun gun to shoot)
HK USP45 Tactical - 45ACP (kicks ass!)
Beretta 92FS - 9mm (best all around)
Bersa Semiauto - .380 (not sure with the specifics on this one, as it’s my wife’s
Springfield Armory XD40 - .40ACP (what I reach for in home defense)
Mossberg 500 - 12 Gauge (never fails)
Ruger LCR - .357 Mag (can carry it literally anywhere)
There’s still a couple of rifles I’d like to add on to what I have. My objective is to have a well rounded collection where I’d have a ‘tool’ for any scenario that may arise if the S ever HTF. I’d still like to get a good bolt gun, in a .300 Win Mag or 30-06. I’d also like to get a good semi auto .22 rifle. Of course, if I ever get the disposable income to drop several grand on a rifle, I’d be delighted to get a hold of a Barrett .50 cal before .gov bans them.
Thanks for your help!
I wouldn’t hesitate to dry fire the 91, The AR, HK, Beretta, XD or Ruger. The Saiga, Mossberg and especially the Bersa, may break firing pins when dry firing or burrs may develop which could cause the firing pin to jam in the forward position, potentially leading to an accidental discharge when the bolt slams forward.
As others have suggested above, snap caps are a way to be sure no damage occurs.