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I’m looking for opinions of whether an original condition lesser grade antique gun is more or less desirable than a restored one.
I have an addiction to Winchester model 1890’s, especially the antique second models. My collecting budget does not allow for the purchase of high grade original guns.
I also enjoy refinishing/restoring shooter grade (or worse) Model 1890’s.
My question is about my latest purchase.
First, please examine the rifle I just purchased that is not collector grade.
http://www.gunauction.com/search/displayitem.cfm?itemnum=12164413
Now look at a similar gun that I restored a couple of years back. It’s the same year of production.
http://s1225.photobucket.com/user/Rustyjack52/library/Antique%20Winchester%201890%20Restored?sort=2&page=1
I’m assuming I could restore my recent purchase for approximately another $100-200 investment ( stock, barrel liner etc.) I’m not considering the many hours of labor involved as it is a hobby.
Which gun would you rather own? From a value perspective, am I devaluing the gun with a restoration?
Or would it be better to maybe just find an original replacement stock and/or leave the rifle as is?
Just looking for opinions from seasoned collectors….thanks
Rusty,
I don’t see much wrong with the gun except the stock. It looks like a good used gun. I would just replace the stock and leave it at that. Once restored the value will always be capped and it will never be original again. I could see if the gun was heavily rusted or extra holes in it would make it a candidate for restoration.
Bob
WACA Life Member--- NRA Life Member---- Cody Firearms member since 1991 Researching the Winchester 1873's
Email: [email protected]
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