repair or restoration of antique weapons??

[rdungan1918]

There are three lots of old firearms missing parts and in various states of disrepair up for auction. Question do you think such weapons should be restored with new parts or left as is? Link below. Side note I am just curious as I have no intention of bidding. I don't have space for wall hangers or the skills to restore. https://hibid.com/lot/129286815/4--antique-percussion-rifles

 

[deerstalkert]

one out of four worth restoration that i can see

 

[BoomStick]

One has some interesting brass fixtures...could possibly be moved to a new stock, but all look like they could only serve as decor at Chochkie's.

 

[rdungan1918]

One has some interesting brass fixtures...could possibly be moved to a new stock, but all look like they could only serve as decor at Chochkie's.

I was thinking Cracker Barrel

 

[Flintlock1640]

That's a lot I've been watching. I would restore the patchbox rifle and top and bottom which both have a nice drop in the butt, makes me think early trade. I'm also saving my pennies for Czernys auction in September so we'll see

 

[Grenadier1758]

If the rifle is complete, I recommend conservation of the gun to stop further deterioration rather than restoration than may alter the history of the rifle. There are some basket cases where restoration is the only choice to have that example of a particular rifle continue to represent that school of rifle construction.

 

[Col. Batguano]

depends on how much time and work you want to do. Only 1-2 of them would be worth it to me.

 

[oldwood]

I've restored a dozen or so different originals , but far and away , building something I can use and enjoy , is more satisfying.

 

[Uncle Miltie]

Preserving patina is important with original guns but so is preservation. To me stabilizing or repairing damage is fine, as is replacing missing parts such as locks and hardware. To me it is also not a "restoration" as long as no attempt is made to make old guns appear new. All four of the rifles shown are survivors, and their appearance, form or function are not enhanced one bit by the missing parts and damage, and to me are certainly worthy of repair and preservation.

 

[TDM]

I don’t know. I’d love to have those lying around and maybe work on one or two. But not for $1,400. Just seems a bit high.

 

[oldwood]

Guns in that shape are $100 each guns. Ti put any of these in order , looking at the price of a new custom build.

 

[SDSmlf]

I don’t know. I’d love to have those lying around and maybe work on one or two. But not for $1,400. Just seems a bit high.

Not to mention the 20% buyer premium….

 

[griffiga]

Personally, I won't own a firearm of any age if I can't shoot it. That goes for muzzle loader and breach loaders alike. My brother had an old 1800's contract musket that's touch hole was worn to the point that when you loaded it, the powder shot out into the pan. When it was fired, you had to make sure nothing was adjacent to the right of you or it would take a huge flame. We took it to a guy who filled in the hole and re-drilled it. The gun works much better now even though it was "Repaired."