How to Restore an Antique Gun Collection
Antique guns can be a very interesting hobby or profession. They can also be very valuable. But like most antiques--and in fact more so, because of their use of explosive gunpowder--they often wear out from use and fall apart simply from age. Guns that have fallen into disrepair are not worth as much as guns that are well cared for. Plus, if you are a gun collector, your firearms should be in the best shape they can possibly be, simply as a matter of pride. However, if you find yourself with guns that are old, rusty and broken, there is a simple solution: you can restore them. Read on to learn how to restore antique guns.
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Instructions
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Ask around in local gun shops for experts in antique weaponry.
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Know exactly what kind of gun you have: style, year and manufacturer. The type of gun and the kind of parts it takes play a large factor in how to restore it.
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Look on the Internet to find replacement parts. Many are very specific and difficult to find, so searching online is a better bet than looking locally.
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Try to find replacement parts that are as close a fit as possible to the original. Exact replacement parts may not be available, but you may be able to find something similar.
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Ask your firearms expert if he can teach you to restore your antique guns if you really want to learn how to do so yourself. Or ask if there is a class you can take that can train you safely in gun restoration.
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Take a gun safety course. Even if they are old and worn out, firearms can be dangerous.
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Learn how to clean your guns properly and safely. Regular cleaning will prevent them from falling into disrepair.
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Tips & Warnings
Proper care of your antique guns will help minimize the need for further restorations in the future.
Do not attempt to restore antique guns yourself. Remember that firearms are dangerous, and restoration should only be done by an expert.
Many antique firearms are custom-made and parts are not interchangeable. Therefore, replacement parts will never fit exactly.
Always keep your guns, antique or not, locked up in a safe place, out of the reach of children. Keep the key safe and out of reach as well.
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Comments
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Collectors should note that in the vast majority of cases, restoration or refinish will damage the historical interest of a firearm, and will usually reduce it's value. I have seen the value of a collectible gun reduced by thousands of dollars by ill advised restoration attempts. Hackamore's advice is very solid. A gun with special history should never be restored, altered, or refinished.
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hackamore
Jun 08, 2010
do NOT get out the steel wool or polishing compound. many a valuable collectible has been made a parts gun by somebody "polishing" (and removing the original finish/patina) etc. you're generally better off (and retain more value) by just gun oil on a soft cloth than "refinishing" an antique gun. if you need to look here to determine the line between cleaning (oil and a soft cloth) and butchery stick to the oil and a soft cloth.
