I have a 1873 trap door 45-70 that has been in the family for the last 100 years, it is dirty but looks like it can be cleaned up. It is 100% original, with leather strap and cleaning rod.

I can not find the serial number, any help appreciated. How far should I take it to be refurbished. It is all original but has corrosion.

Serial should be right behind the breech block on top the of the receiver.

Any pics? That might help us offer suggestions.

Usually, oil and light action with some cooper or bronze wool will work wonders.

Given their age and history, Trapdoors are still pretty good sleepers on the market. New replicas often sell for nearly 2X a shootable original.

I can't believe I missed that. I searched it over and over and when you told me where it was it stood out like a sore thumb as soon I picked the gun up. Thanks!

I heard that cleaning "old" collector guns can really hurt the value. May need to do more research before any scrubbing.

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No baby we aint

Right- Which is why we need pics to assess condition and provide more accurate guidance.

Camellia Oil is regularly used for maintaining centuries old Samurai swords worth hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Works great on old guns. Will not alter natural patina.

It does no harm, protects steel.

My vote is for KROIL

Probably the best penetrating oil I have come across.....I have corked up a barrel and filled the bore with KROIL and let is soak for several days and you will be amazed at the crude that is loosened up.

That said, you will probably expose all of the deeper pitting in that bore that has been filled with lead/rust, etc.

I also soak all the metal with a coat of KROIL but a good idea to remove the wood furniture prior to this.

Good luck!!

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Tom Graham SWCA #2303