To strip or not!!

**gunsaholic** · 03-17-2015 04:10 PM

No, it's not about porn!

I added a Schmidt Rubin model 1889 to the collection. This is one that was converted to 30-30 Winchester back in the 50's. Still has the mag with it that you don't often see. Anyhow, as you can see from the pics, I am wondering about the stock. Should I completely strip and refinish it? I know these aren't high value rifles but will refinishing it take away any value it might hold now or in the future? I was also wondering about applying some walnut stain to the lighter areas and applying paste varnish to said areas. Or should I just leave it alone and let it show its age and character?
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**Highly Recommended** · 03-17-2015 04:10 PM

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**HOOKED ON HISTORY** · 03-17-2015 04:44 PM

Put one vote in the yes column.

**gunsaholic** · 03-17-2015 05:13 PM

Originally Posted by HOOKED ON HISTORY

Put one vote in the yes column.

Yes, strip it or yes, leave it alone?

**HOOKED ON HISTORY** · 03-17-2015 05:29 PM

Sorry. Strip it. I would say why not. Interesting old conversion with no collectors value why not make it look nice. The wood looks sound and could be made quite attractive after a denatured alcohol strip ,dent repair, light sanding and the finish of choice.

**gunsaholic** · 03-17-2015 06:20 PM

That is the way I'm leaning right now. The wood is sound with no cracks and only a couple of minor dents.

**WarPig1976** · 03-17-2015 06:50 PM

Put some lipstick on that pig!!....Yes.

**browningautorifle** · 03-17-2015 07:31 PM

You can't point out anything original about that coat of varnish or whatever that is. Liquid strip and be happy.

**Aragorn243** · 03-17-2015 09:42 PM

Strip it, strip it good.

**728shooter** · 03-18-2015 11:11 PM

I agree with the others, strip it and re-finish it any way you want. Its already been modified to 30-30 Winchester so any collector/historical value is long gone, thus you have nothing to lose from that perspective. Basically, you have no where to go but "up"......

--728shooter

**Aragorn243** · 03-20-2015 09:08 AM

I thought something didn't look right. The stock has been cut so cleaning it up is only going to increase it's value at this point. Zero collector value. Strictly a sporter at this point.

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