Parade Rifle Refinish

I have seen a couple 1917 rifles for sale locally that have what I think is a nickle colored finish on the metal done for parade use. One is in the 312,XXX range Eddystone. The other is a 388,XXX range Winchester. I was wondering if these can be refinished back to the original color or somewhere close? Or are they forever "modified"? The stocks are in good shape and they seem to have the usual mix of parts (examined without takedown) but the majority match each rifle. The gentleman at the counter said they were brought in by a member of a VFW or who traded them in for a hunting rifle. Pricing is quite cheap. Any info on this is appreciated.

stolen rifle from the US Gov, id avoid it.

Just to clarify.
Rifles "owned" by the VFW, are really NOT their property.... just loaned by the govt.
I believe there have been "recalls" were the govt has issued them "new" rifles in exchange for their old ones.

if i"m not mistaken,the CMP had some krag dp [parade] rifles.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by chuckindenver

stolen rifle from the US Gov, id avoid it.

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Ahh. This is the story I got from the man behind the counter. I cannot confirm or refute the story but it doesn't surprise me that he would try to embellish the story to make them seem more appealing. Thanks for the heads up.

But I'm still curious if it can be done?

yes, it can be done. i do it all the time.