Refinished 1881 Marlin
I'm not much into lever guns, but I've been looking into an 1881 Marlin in 38/55. Problem is it's been refinished. The metal is a deep blue, like the 1960s Smith and Wesson's. The bore is very good, everything seems tight. The wood has been lightly sanded and refinished. When I first saw it I thought it was an Italian import. The seller wants $1500.00, but I may be able to knock it down a hundred or two. Would that be too much for a refinished rifle? I'm hesitant buying anything redone having been burned in the past.
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I think the price sounds pretty fair if it's a quality refinish.
An all original 1881 can command close to double that or even more depending on caliber, condition, and features.
FWIW I'm also not a big fan of restored/refinished guns.0 -
Have you done a search on completed auctions for prices?
Collector value on refinished is low but shooter value could be up. I personally enjoy a firearm that puts the bullet where I want and if it happens to look nice while doing that, its a bonus.
Saving a couple hundred bucks could score dies and a bullet mold perhaps some brass and other components to really enjoy your rifle.
Someday I'd like to build a takedown 95 Winchester in 30-40 Krag improved.0 -
Depends if you want it for collection, or shooting purposes. Personally have been stuck, to many times over the years. Paying good money for guns that aren't original.
Collectors are a fussy lot. Paying top dollar for a rifle that has had the metal and wood refinished, is something they won't do.
Even if your going to use as a shooter. Have to keep in mind. That if you ever try to sell it in the future. Might be quite difficult because of the above reason(s).0
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