A brand new wilson combat or les baer is also an indication of someone that is going to struggle.
That's a pretty interesting generalization and to me, not one that reflects deep thinking. Among my many guns (both common and expensive), I have a very nice looking Wilson Combat Tactical Supergrade. It has a great finish (2nd one so far) and despite the large number of rounds and several hundred +P goodness, it still looks great. When the time comes, it will get its 3rd coat and look like new again. In your school it would be a mark of shame. In my book, a mark of good keeping and respect for superior workmanship.
Even in my Army days, my M4 and 203 or Galil looked great (although they did stink of diesel) because I took great care to keep them so, and they in turn kept me alive. They saw and eat dirt, mud, rain, hail and way too much sweat and other sorts of unpleasant stuff but they looked and worked great. When they scratched, I had the armorer coat them to prevent rust and corrosion.
Having a gun go in and out of a holster doesn't make one an expert. Even if they have a life membership with the NRA. Same goes for abused, scratched guns. At least not in my book.
I'd reserve my judgment until observing a person handle their weapon of choice properly, shoot confidently and accurately and when the time comes (which is no longer the case for me) see them in time of stress, observe if they use their brain to avoid or win a fight and only send the bear minimum of rounds toward the target, and nothing but that target.
Nothing personal, just a problem with the statement and general approach. It may be accurate in your situation and life experience, but it isn't in mine.
