by Supaduke » 06 Sep 2017, 9:01 am
What you do to it is up to you.
Note that any refinishing will destroy resale value.
If it's a bit grubby you can dismantle it and give the wood a wash with hot soapy water.
There is a certain technique for pulling it apart. You have to do it in a certain order when removing the timber or you will damage it. I remember an old bloke telling me you need to remove the buttstock before you take off the forward lower or you can damage the lug that sits in the receiver collar.
Dents in the timber can be steamed out with a wet rag and a hot iron and won't affect the finish. It will dry out the surface a little bit, but a quick rub down with linseed oil will sort that.
Restoring Milsurps is a contentious issue. To some it is the most heinous of crimes. I believe that a solid clean up , steaming a few dents and freshening the oil coating is the way to go. Who knows what sort of neglect it has weathered in the 70 odd years since it's creation.
Others will say leave it as is no matter what condition.
I think maintaining the patina and aged look is important. I don't think 70 year old dirt and grime is patina. Nor do I believe leaving the dent ,that some clumsy oaf put there in 1976, is preserving its heritage.
Respectful and subtle restoration , good
Full refinishing, not so good.
However, it's your gun. You may never intend to sell it, so resale value is a moot point.
You may prefer a shiny , new looking rifle. The rifle may look a bit beaten up and tired. A full, respectful refinish may be what it needs.
It's a dilemma that has faced every Milsurp owner at some point, it's a decision only you can make.