refinishing a win 94

sven556 · Post by **sven556** » Sun Jan 20, 2008 11:58 am

I am planning on refinishing a 1949 win 94 that has little bluing left. but a decent finish left on the wood.

What finish was originally applied to the stocks?

Is there a cold bluing out there that works well and doesn't smell much, if at all?

2ndovc · Post by **2ndovc** » Sun Jan 20, 2008 12:02 pm

It's your gun and do what you want but it will be worth more and look better if you leave it as is.

Modoc ED · Post by **Modoc ED** » Sun Jan 20, 2008 12:19 pm

+1

Just wipe the metal down with an oiled cloth once a month and the metal will never rust -- more often (everytime) when you handle it or have it out shooting. Get a bore snake for the barrel and clean the action (internals) with Q-tips, toothbrush, etc. and it'll look good for years to come. A light drop of oil on the pivot points once a year and you're goo to go.

Griff · Post by **Griff** » Sun Jan 20, 2008 12:25 pm

Modoc ED wrote:+1
Just wipe the metal down with an oiled cloth once a month and the metal will never rust -- more often (everytime) when you handle it or have it out shooting. Get a bore snake for the barrel and clean the action (internals) with Q-tips, toothbrush, etc. and it'll look good for years to come. A light drop of oil on the pivot points once a year and you're goo{d} to go.

+2. Value on refinished arms can be significantly lower than on original finish, even if showing "honest wear."

claybob86 · Post by **claybob86** » Sun Jan 20, 2008 3:50 pm

How about a picture?

horsesoldier03 · Post by **horsesoldier03** » Sun Jan 20, 2008 4:02 pm

DONT DO IT, you will only be sorry later.

66GTO · Post by **66GTO** » Sun Jan 20, 2008 4:14 pm

I've been watching the Barrett-Jackson auto auction all week and there is a parallel that can be drawn between old cars and old guns.

As they have said when an original unrestored car crosses the block (after one restored better than new), "They are only original once. Once restored, that originality is gone forever".

To me, that patina of honest wear makes a gun more desirable.

But it is your gun to do with as you wish.

sven556 · Post by **sven556** » Sun Jan 20, 2008 6:59 pm

well, it's better to take the advice of veterans than to go off on your own. I guess I'll hold off on refinishing. I'll try to post some pictures of it soon.

I might think of trading it for a later model that is already drilled and tapped for receiver sights, as I've also been informed that putting the holes in will bring down the value. I'm glad I asked asked first!