.44 Double Action - Refinished?

[HoundDog316]

aka .44 Double Action First Model or New Model Navy Number 3 Revolver. It comes with 6 inch barrel, and the 1 and 7/16 inch cylinder, .44 Russian caliber, S/N 32xxx. The bore looks great, hard to photograph, but the exterior finish is outstanding, easily 90%. And therein lies my question--has this been refinished? There are no markings of any kind under the grips, and otherwise no obvious evidence.

Also, I'm no expert in detecting a refinish job--does anyone have any tips on doing so? I have a very early Colt SAA that has obviously been refinished--even I can see it. But I really don't know how to detect some of the better, non-factory jobs.

 

[mrcvs]

Yes definitely refinished. Note the depression from polishing surrounding the hinge pin and the faceplate screw. Also the coloration of the bluing is darker than the original.

 

[mrcvs]

Also note the rounded edges of various surfaces.

Note how yours differs from the one I just posted photographs of, which remains in its original state.

 

[Exmilcop]

Refinished notwithstanding, that's one beautiful pistol!

 

[Kinman]

I like it, I find this model to be the most pleasing to my eye...Form following Function.
Mine was refinished by the factory:

 

[clang444]

Dished screw holes are another indication of refinish.

Still a nice gun...

 

[HoundDog316]

Kinman,
I couldn't agree more! I always figured mine was refinished, so with the extra info here, now I want to shoot it more than ever. Just need to work up some black powder loads.

Here's a pic of his stablemate. Finish is original, but still working on who did the engraving. But the 4 inch barrel just makes that perfect look and feel!

And thanks to everyone for the tips on refinishing--I have a couple more suspects I need to examine...

 

[Kinman]

Kinman,
I couldn't agree more! I always figured mine was refinished, so with the extra info here, now I want to shoot it more than ever. Just need to work up some black powder loads.

Here's a pic of his stablemate. Finish is original, but still working on who did the engraving. But the 4 inch barrel just makes that perfect look and feel!

And thanks to everyone for the tips on refinishing--I have a couple more suspects I need to examine...

Thats beautiful...thanks for the pic.

 

[Ruger 13]

Very nice!