Surface Finish on Wartime No 4 and No 5 Rifles from ROF, ROM and BSA

[22SqnRAE]

22sqnRAE: Keep in mind that, from a collectors perspective, rifles that have obviously been through one or more in-service refits generally have less value than examples that may have factory original finish even if badly worn or heavily patinated (is that a word?). "Restoration" to factory new condition is effectively impossible and restoration to something emulating an in-service refit is probably best done with "shooter grade" rifles. For example, I have a mechanically excellent No. 4T that a talented previous owner parkerized and painted which is now, effectively, a "range rifle". It would be much more valuable (and just as good a shooter) had it been left worn and dinged. That is the perspective of the "collector" and certainly differs from the perspective of those that are mainly interested in shooting them. While I'm firmly in both camps, I think it is important that the message gets out that sometimes it's best to just leave them alone.

Ridolpho

Ridolpho, Thanks for the comment, I am completely in support of your views. Some are worth leaving 'as is' some are worth restoring, to a certain level.

The rifle this thread started on is a pig, and worthy of being bypassed in its current state by many. However, with some TLC and effort, I see merit in cleaning it up, gaining some experience in several technique refinements and having a better example to sell on to a less fastidious collector, or better - as you rightly point out - a range shooter.

I am buoyed by the comments several have made and the general feeling of concern over the 'fakery' of some restorations. There are several US based companies turning out 'new' rebuilds of old service rifles (I'm thinking K98, M1903A3 in particular.) These rifles may look 'new' and 'flash' but I feel quite cold about them. That others feel similar is a good sign. Authenticity is essential to a collector. Accuracy is essential to a preserver, I feel.

---------- Post added at 08:32 AM ---------- Previous post was at 08:29 AM ----------

You'd better start reading up the article of setting up bolts and then the bit where it goes into fitting the bolt head. Not just a take off and screw another in task. It is a mine of inter-related mechanics just waiting to trap the amateur enthusiasts that seem to ................... anyway............
Pete the Pom, Ex Australian Army 1967-70

Good advice, sir, thank you. I've been reading a few of your articles and am grateful for your generosity to share your knowledge and wit with us. Not sucking up here, just saying 'Thanks, Dig."