I have some slight finish problems with some Smiths. Even though I do not presently plan to sell them, I always keep an eye on value on any changes. I have a LS model 65 as well as two other 65's. The LS has some areas that look like they were lightly polished from simply holding it. I also have two CS 1"s and possibly a third one on the way.

I am thinking of changing the finish on them to a standard finish on my other Smiths. One of the CS1's has very light scratches only on the side plate. The other has some slight marring. The one I may be purchasing is a little rough. I do not want to change the finishes but I do not like the way they are now. I also do not want to have them bead blasted or professionally polished.

I have some scratches on a 4566. Same problems.

If I do use a scotch pad or sandpaper etc, how badly will it affect their value?

I can't speak to the value question, but with stainless guns it seems that any scratch removal becomes am "all or none" proposition as to the level of polishing. I would NOT use sand paper.

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Robert
SWCA #2906, SWHF #760

Would not mess with the CS-1s.

Your guns have two values. A Collectors value,which will be affected by any change from the original shipped from the factory condition. Then there is the practical shooter value. In some instances the changes made to a firearm may enhance the value beyond what the original value was. Since the forum is made up of predominately "collectors" you are often told a firearm may be ruined by a change of finish. As a collector interest maybe yes, but as a shooter it may now be more desirable to another shooter.

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H Richard
SWCA1967 SWHF244