Another case color question

[Ed Blake]

To me the engraving stands out much better on guns with worn case colors. Plus, I would think the prep polishing would mute the distiinctive engraving of an A-grade. No way would I recase a gun like that.

[Bruce Day]

Ed, Brad Bachelder will pick up the engraving on guns before case coloring, so loss of engraving definition from buffing is not an issue with that technique.

But I don't mind the silver frame on this old 1889 gun.

[Ray Masciarella]

Wow, now that is a nice looking gun right there. I wish mine looked just like it!

If any of you got the impression that I'm recoloring the gun I posted in the photo, don't worry because I would never mess with that one! It is a great old A grade with very little use.

Ray

[Kensal Rise]

Ray:
With the assumption that your engraving is still fairly crisp, and hasn't been buffed, the approach I mention is fairly easy to do. However, if you are only a "basement gunsmith" in experience level, I think you'd be more satisfied if you called Bachelder, told him what you wanted to achieve WITHOUT a re-case, he'd be able to do it for you in fine order. And without much expense. Then you'd have a professional job that will look much like the gun above.

Best, Kensal

PS: The process used at Hollands involves some stuff called Roto Ink.

[Bruce Day]

Some people like these case colors.