I agree about the turned up noses when a refinish is mentioned. I also happen to like the looks of a gun with honest wear. It means that someone loved it enough to keep & use it. Rust is a totally different issue to me. It shows lack of love and care, and removing it & refinishing is like removing a cancer.

I'd be proud to own that one too. In fact, I have a cosmetically challenged model 17 that I would gladly spend $200 on to make it as nice. It's already "not collectable grade", and a re-finish would make it so nice. Congratulations!