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Refinishing and Value

HPHHPH Member Posts: 112 ✭✭
edited April 2008 in Ask the Experts
Why does a firearm generally lose value if it's been refinished?

Most other things (cars, boats, etc.) increase in value when restored.

I've never understood this. Anyone have any rational explanation?

Comments

  • GrasshopperGrasshopper Member Posts: 17,042 ✭✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    Age old question,,,,originality imo,,,,counts for it although there are some turning to pro refinished to be as good in value...I would rather have a no blue collectable as a refinish one,,,but thats me. nambu
  • dcinffxvadcinffxva Member Posts: 2,830 ✭✭
    edited November -1
    A couple of reasons. One is that value on a firearm is gauged on the percentage of original finish. When a firearm is refinished the amount of original finish is now 0%.

    Another, especially on antiques, is that collectors typically desire guns that have mellowed with age. Brass looks nice when it's polished up, but when it's on a Model 1841 musket, it just doesn't look right.

    And cars, boats etc that are in ORIGINAL excellent condition, such as paint, engine, interior and such are worth way more than the same piece in restored similar condition.
  • RCrosbyRCrosby Member Posts: 3,808 ✭✭✭
    edited November -1
    All of the above, plus the fact that there are FEW out there who do really excellent work when it comes to refinishing. That said, even a Turnbull refinished firearm won't touch an original in the same condition. Even an ordinary gun (i.e. non-collectible) will lose value when the cost of 100% blue is rounded edges, over buffed/polished surfaces, etc. A few wrinkles and a bit of age make a beautiful woman all the more so, and the same goes for some honest wear on a good gun.
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