Here's my sad face...(S&W Refinishing)

[Pants]

So, I bought an old Model 36 that had some wear on the cylinder, most likely from sitting in a wet holster. I sent it in to be re-finished back in June and today I called for an update. I was under the impression the whole process would take 12 weeks, which the rep told me when I inquired about it. Today the rep I spoke with told me it was 12 weeks just for a quote and in 7 months I'd get my gun back.

I was kind of shocked, I'm not going to lie. I guess it will give me something to look forward too and will be better than new, but is this typically the turnaround time for a re-finish or any Performance Center work you'll have done?

[JJEH]

I guess 12 weeks sounded too good to be true for the whole job. But 7 month on the other hand are a long wait.

[tlay]

That is why I sent mine to Fords. They do a better job at re-blueing and they don't mind talking to you. I called the S&W service department and they acted like I was bothering them.

[Pants]

Originally Posted by tlay

That is why I sent mine to Fords. They do a better job at re-blueing and they don't mind talking to you. I called the S&W service department and they acted like I was bothering them.

You know, I felt the same way. I'm kind of put off by the whole thing. I waited on hold for over 45 minutes too. What are the odds they make me pay to ship my gun back?? ha

[Pants]

Originally Posted by JJEH

I guess 12 weeks sounded too good to be true for the whole job. But 7 month on the other hand are a long wait.

Plus add almost 3 months that they've had the gun and we're looking at year. Thank God I have others! ha

[Dr.ButcherMD]

Originally Posted by tlay

That is why I sent mine to Fords. They do a better job at re-blueing and they don't mind talking to you. I called the S&W service department and they acted like I was bothering them.

How long is the wait at Fords? How is their pricing in comparison?

[ditrina]

I sent one off to them on 6/20.. I was told they were 20 weeks behind..

[tlay]

I just sent another one, a pre-29 that the side plate was buffed out. I called Smith and Wesson and they would not touch it. I asked them to fit another side-plate to it, no way. I called Fords and sent them the gun. They have to buff the side even, re-engrave the emblem, and re-blue the entire gun. $240. I was quoted 12 weeks. If you call ask for Travis.

[BillyMagg]

Originally Posted by tlay

That is why I sent mine to Fords. They do a better job at re-blueing and they don't mind talking to you. I called the S&W service department and they acted like I was bothering them.

Yeah, the Honeybadger does that sometimes when I call her, but I better not say to much, she made me a peach cobbler. billy magg

[mchom]

I got a revolver in at Fords. I sent it in in early March and I dont expect it until late in Aug. Although I was originally told July.... But I dont mind the delay. Just as long as the results are worth the wait, and from what I have heard Fords does deliver.

[chief38]

Had a bad experience with Ford the one time I used them. They apparently either don't listen to their messages and emails or they just are so busy they don't give a hoot. Eventually I got my gun back and it was OK, but I won't be treated like that again and would never use them again.

I would let Smith just do the work and have patience. At LEAST they will answer their phones and talk to you!

[Boxhead]

I have done enough factory fixes as well as cutom works on long and short gun to realize that given I have chosen the best for the job I let ot go, sometime for years, and know I will receive exactly what I required. Fortunately there are enough toys to keep me busy whilst said piece is out.

[tlay]

You cannot send your pre model guns back to S&W. They will not re-blue or work on them.