Are opinion changing on restoring a shotgun?

[Parker Bachelder (Brad's Profile)]

For what it is worth, we restore far more high grade guns than field grade guns. However we have never lost out on a Restoration of a good basic field gun. We evaluate what the function and cosmetics would cost in a high condition gun. Each gun needs to be evaluated on an individual basis. A properly restored P grade will bring a 60 to 70 percent value. Assume that a 70% C grade in original condition will yield a very high price at auction. Take a C in less than 30% and Restore it to 90% it will yield At least a 70% sale value, far higher than the cost of Restoration.
The most significant fact is that a Restoration that is done in the same fashion as the original manufacturer is not a refinish, rather a proper preservation of the guns original integrity.

Brad

[Kensal Rise]

Originally Posted by Brad Bachelder

... The most significant fact is that a Restoration that is done in the same fashion as the original manufacturer is not a refinish, rather a proper preservation of the guns original integrity.

Brad

Mr. Bachelder is most respected in his field, and I may be too strict in my limits of vocabulary here... but "preservation" is the retention of original finish. Restoration is its recreation... as far as an independent workman can match it.

Thus, "restoration" is, by clarity of language, still restoration.

Nonetheless, Mr. Bachelder's wise assessment of the relative values of the work is well stated. And I have the greatest admiration for his craftsmanship, I might add!

This should, in no way, be interpreted as a criticism of his work, his fine character, or his opinions.