Certus
32 Cal
I recently posted a thread relating to some marks on the bottom of the grips of a couple of original muzzle loading revolvers I own indicting their use as a hammer at some time in its past. There has been quite a bit of controversy here in the UK over the years regarding the extent of "cleaning up" or what might be considered a reasonable restoration of antique firearms. Unless the firearm is non-functional or in extremely poor condition, I strongly believe it should be left with the dings and marks of hundreds of years often adding to its character. Having said that, I don't mind the replacement or repair of small parts screws springs etc which are probably not entirely original anyway. Collectors in the UK will pay a considerable premium for an original firearm with the patchy remains of the original finish, whereas I much prefer an overall grey patina. There is an argument for returning vintage guns, cars etc to their original glory, so I wondered what the general preference was in the U.S.
Brian
Brian