From time to time I have been coming across a few older shooter grade Smith revolvers ( not rare or collectible models ) that have been refinished in some way or another. The cerakoted ones, which I dont care for at all- poor color, stamps and markings filled in and gloppy, usually not well done , etc. Another one I saw had a very well done virtually black finish that was quite good, but obviously was not the original deep blueing as the color was just...off. Laying in the case next to other guns of the same age it was easy to eyeball the finish differences- and it was just too nice at the price point. But in the end I held back trying to negotiate due to the mystery refinish- I doubt it had been redone at the factory. I guess my gut was telling even me for a shooter grade, I'd rather have honest wear on an original finish than the same revolver that had been redone. I don't think I'm alone on this unless the price was irresistible.
So what does refinishing really do to the price/value ? A S&W revolver that's only cosmetically challenged rarely falls below a certain price point, and when 99% perfect seems to hover around a higher but consistent price point.
Its all subjective, but would you add or subtract for the refinish if someone took a $400 revolver and blew $300 on a good refinish job ? ( Right next to it one the table is the same model with original finish with acceptable honest wear at $700 )
So what does refinishing really do to the price/value ? A S&W revolver that's only cosmetically challenged rarely falls below a certain price point, and when 99% perfect seems to hover around a higher but consistent price point.
Its all subjective, but would you add or subtract for the refinish if someone took a $400 revolver and blew $300 on a good refinish job ? ( Right next to it one the table is the same model with original finish with acceptable honest wear at $700 )