How does a Damascus refinish affect desirability?
 

If a Damascus barreled Parker has been properly restored by the likes of Breck Gorman does it affect the desirability of the gun in your opinion? Negatively, no change or positively?

My very "general" response is that I prefer the condition of any barrel type to be in relatively the same condition as the rest of the gun. For example, if a gun has no case colors and the wood is worn I don't care for new finish on barrels. It doesn't look right to me.

I think refinishing/restoring composite barrels, as long as they were so badly worn or covered in crud that refinishing was warranted, can only increase a gun’s worth. Even if the rest of the gun shows wear I think it is a sign of respect to the gun and to those who created those beautiful barrels to bring out their original beauty.





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Dean yes I was thinking about ugly barrels that detract from the overall look of the gun not nicely worn barrels. Keep the character of the gun original as much as possible but correct the ugly. Normal wear and tear is not ugly. However, some feel keep the gun original no matter what.

I think that a properly done damascus refinish does not really look out of place on a gun. Especially a hammer gun. The key is it it not being too high contrast.

I think the reality of these guns is they are all getting old and a few tweaks to keep them looking and functioning well may be needed, not akin to a new knee or hip, LOL

I am a lover of Damascus barrels and Damascus in general. Sooooo, if the barrel could use some TLC to bring out the pattern (read Mr. Gorman), I am all for it. Now, if the gun were a significant addition to the knowledge base and had history, then I might be hesitant based on its provenance

Most of my Parkers etc. fall into the "using" category so I treat them carefully as I want.

Just my thoughts.

I’m not big on any “re” word . But I have three Parker’s that were totally redone before I acquired them . The first 8 gauge I got , the VHE 12 skeet I got a month or so ago and a DH 12 pigeon gun from the last Poulin auction . I’ve also had Breck refresh the barrels on the DH 10 I shoot regularly . It is what it is , I’d 100% rather have an honest unabused 40% original finish gun over a redone gun , however they aren’t making anymore and I want them to SHOOT them and of course as an investment of sorts .

I had a member and a friend here do a set of barrels, damascus, for me and I asked him if he could do a partial refinish for me to match the rest of the patina on the gun. It turned out perfect and you could never tell they were ''refreshed".

So to answer your question Craig, no it doesn't bother me but then again I'm not a purist as those barrels are beautiful when done properly.

https://www.vintageguns.co.uk/magazine/barrel-browning

This short article is good. Barrel refinish should compliment the overall condition of the gun, and not stand out on its own. My goal is to make a 100+ year old neglected, abused barrel look and last like a 100+ year old well cared for barrel.