Refinish or keep as is for history :)

[lucidbassist]

So I just recently acquire a '51 870 Wingmaster. Unfortunately the barrels and furniture were not original. I changed out the stock and pump as I had intended to do anyway and plan on changing the barrel at some point.

Anyway ... blued finish is showing its age, and worn away at places. While I intend to use this shotgun for tactical training and home defense I also intend to eventually had it down to one of my boys. Its 62 years old, might as well keep it around and keep it in the family. Im torn between the idea of refinishing it in something more durable or just keeping it like it is and letting history tell its story ...

Any thoughts?

[ponycarman]

I'm all for a firearms history. I love the old military firearms. I personally like the patina of an aged and well worn firearm. I gave my wife a .22 rifle from the 40's that had blueing that had turned a carmel color, just gorgeous . I try to imagine what it has been though. My 70's wingmaster is kinda like that. I did add a mag extension and a shorter barrel but nothing to erase times signature from it. New guns are easy to find. But those who have stood the test of time and are still here and functional are much more sentimental and have colorful histories. Its your shotgun and you are free to do as you wish. Whatever makes it more enjoyable. Good luck with your descision!

Sent from my LS670 using Tapatalk

[Synchronizor]

If you want this to be a functional gun, not just an heirloom, another option would be to have it refinished with a more traditional bluing, instead of some new-fangled thing like DuraCoating or plating. You'll preserve both the classic look and the gun's function, and quality bluing will stand up to weather and use just fine.