Brian, I fully agree with you on not restoring the gun. The barrels are Damascus twist steel and show very little pitting inside. I've run a bore scope in the tubes and the pitting is very minor and shallow. Short of Radio-graphing the barrels I feel it would be safe to shoot (if desired) with black powder pressure equivalent loads. This is a beautiful gun in good condition with great patina. I personally am leaning towards a light refinish and touch up of the stock set only. There are a few dings and scratches in the wood, which is exceptional and beautifully figured feather crotch American Walnut. It just needs a cleaning to highlight the figure again. Years of accumulated dirt and oil have dulled and hidden the figure. Now that I have several experts in agreement that it is a "C" grade NIG, I feel the customer is better served by leaving the gun "as is". Thanks again!!
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