I love this piece, but it ain't pretty. I was looking into some refinishing options, when I read that S&W only made 300 of these guns (clear-coat -- red ramp FS).
So now, what should I do?
If it has value over its worth, maybe I should sell it and find a black one and pocket the difference.
Maybe I'm wrong, but I don't think the collectors are lining up for 325sc's. I've had a few silver/clearcote finished revolvers and hated it. The finish looks bad in no time. I had the frame of my now-departed 625-10 refinished black by the factory, and it really held up. That was a 2-tone deal, but suited the gun. I think the factory would make your revolver black for less than $200, and you'd love it. It could always be returned to silver/clearcote if you so desire. We're not talking rebluing. Here's what the 625-10 looked like with a black, formerly silver, frame.
You're looking at $820-840 for a new BLACK 325-NG which has better XS front sight, a SS cylinder but bulky Pachmayr grips. And that might need a $12 C&S extended firing pin and that black paint isn't exactly wear-impervious by a long shot. So how much do you plan to sell your bird-in-hand for?...
Pinky, you're right that they are not lining up for the gun, yet. Do you think the factroy could make the cylinger black also. In looking at refinishing options, I haven't found anyone who will refinish Ti.
GD, Didn't think about selling now. I would only do it if what I have is worth more than what I want.
Did I mention that I still have the box and original grips?
The factory (nor anyone else for that matter) will refinish the titanium cylinder. There already is a protective finish on the cylinder that prevents erosion at the cylinder face towards the forcing cone. Titanium itself is actually a combustible metal. The finish prevents the combustion and erosion of the cylinder.
You will probably be better off trading with someone for a nightguard or selling yours and buying a NG.
Model 325sc
Linear Mode
