3rd Gen stainless factory refurb question

[Lumpyboy]

I am looking at a 1066 that has significant wear/scratch marks. If the gun otherwise functions flawlessly and I'd like it restored to like new factory condition cosmetically, is it as simple as either sending it back to the factory for a $155 full frame and slide bead blast or sending it to someone else otherwise competent in bead blasting a 3rd gen stainless Smith? Thanks.

 

[TAROMAN]

As you live next door to the factory, I guess you could just drop it off, saving shipping costs. I would expect that you could get it done for a bit less at a properly equipped 'smith, assuning there's one in your neighborhood.
If you want a factory finish, then factory it should be.
Personally, I am a DIY'er and make do with the Scotch-Brite method and save the $$$ for more ammunition.

 

[Lumpyboy]

Thank you. Assuming they do their factory refurb work in MA yes you are right they are only about an hour and a half from me so no shipping. Problem with scotch-brite is that I fear some of the scratches may be deep enough so that scotch bright wouldn't work but I admit I have no experience here. I have read a number of scotch brite threads and it looks fairly straightforward (but need to do the entire frame and slide, which is fine).

Also, while I don't need "factory finish" per se (i.e., from S&W), I have had 3rd party refinishing work done before and while it has looked awesome it was not quite factory. I'd prefer to keep the 1066 as close to looking like it did when it came from the factory as possible. It sounds like for the 3rd gens any bead blasting will do as long as it is done correctly?

 

[Tyrod]

If you want it to look like factory, then walk across the street to the factory. I have a feeling you're not gonna be happy otherwise. If you're doing this in anticipation of selling it, you might want to find something a lil cheaper.

 

[Lumpyboy]

Thanks. I would do this for me and not for resale value. I spoke with S&W today and they said yes you can walk it in to the MA factory (customer shop actually) and the turn around is 8-10 weeks. They said not to specify bead blast but instead to simply note you want the gun returned to factory condition. They said scratches will come out unless they are deep. I am not saying I'd do this but it is good to know what the options are and I wanted to report back.

 

[Tyrod]

They do pretty good work. They don't do rusted out P-O-S to like new, but I've seen some pretty beat up ones come out looking like new.

Far better than average Bubba gunsmith. Not as good as restoration experts, but then you're not paying "by the hour" either.

 

[Lumpyboy]

Here it is. Some scuffs and a scratch under slide stop.

 

[Tyrod]

They'll make it look brand new.