[Gumpy]

Does refinishing the original stocks on a gun lessen it's value? My levermatic has a few dings on it and I would like a glossier finish on it than the matt finish it has now. It's still a sharp lookin' gun (to me) so should I leave well enough alone?

 

[Spud9]

If a gun in not considered collectible or antique refinishing any part of the gun will not change its value. In some instances it may increase the value a little. What it boils down to is it is your gun and you want it to look a certain way go for it, as long as it is not a collectible. Most people that have guns are not looking to sell, unless they are dealers or collectors that buy and trade often. Most of us buy, keep and shoot our guns.

 

[Hyphenated]

Pretty much what Spud9 said. If you have plans to put it on the market in the near future I would leave it alone. If this rifle is a 'keeper', than I would do what makes you happy and enjoy it.

 

[Gumpy]

It's def a "keeper"! My Uncle bought it new and my Aunt gave it to me when he passed away. I guess I'm just looking for a project. I can't stand not to have something not going on.

 

[97thSignalman]

Do it! Strip the old finish and stem out any dents. Sand lightly and polish bare wood with 0000 Steel wool. Fill grain, stain and seal to suit and then use a hand-rubbed tung oil finsh with multiple applications.

Here is an old M1 Garand stock that I did that way. (To you purists, I still have the original dinged up and chipped stock put away)

 

[Gumpy]

Beautiful Garand. You did a most excellent job!!