Custom Gunsmithing

[BrianE]

I recently picked up a Ruger sp101 .357 and awhile back Sipowicz posted a pic of his Gemini Customs Ruger and I liked it a lot. Is there any good/recommended gunsmiths in the Massachusetts area that can do that same work or would you just send it to Gemini? I've just never sent a firearm out for anything. Whatcha think?

 

[jkc]

I'm unfamiliar with this particular modification, but, there are any number of smiths who really specialize in one or another sort of work, and whose expertise is probably worth paying for, including the exorbitant cost of shipping. You want ports on your S&W revolver ---Mag-na-port, slicked & tricked Hi-Powers --- Novak, corrosion resistant plating --- Robar, superb Ruger MKx .22 pistols --- Clark Custom, high-performance tactical shotguns --- Vang Comp Systems, and etc. There's lots of generic work and repair work that can be done by jack-of-all trade smiths, but some specialty work is the realm of the masterful few, and it's usually worth the expense. (You're not gonna carry this piece in a generic nylon holster, are you?)

 

[BrianE]

JKC, currently I carry it in an enhanced pancake from LoboGunLeather. I got the idea of Gemini from Sipowicz who showed me a picture of his Ruger SP101 that was done there. He had nothing but good things to say and from what I see on here, he is very reputable.

I would be doing the stainless package on their site minus the porting. Looks to to be 300 plus shipping. I guess my big deal is, Ive never shipped a gun anywhere and not a big fan of the idea. All Ive ever owned is S&W and when I had a problem, I just drove there and dropped it off since Im in Springfield...

 

[Onomea]

...Ive never shipped a gun anywhere and not a big fan of the idea. All Ive ever owned is S&W and when I had a problem, I just drove there and dropped it off since Im in Springfield...

FWIW, I am just the opposite. I own S&Ws and Colts, mostly prewar, but some post.

I've never had any work done locally, and have always shipped guns off for repairs or custom work. Just find a a reputable guy to work on your gun, and be sure you know exactly what you want. And communicate well with the smith you choose, so that both sides understand the others expectations.

The adivice on not getting your money back for custom work is good, but there is a lot of pleasure in tuning up a gun to its potential. If you do it, do it for your own pleasure, and no other reason. I've had several done, and am quite happy with results.

And getting back to your original question, the odds of a top notch custom smith being in your neighborhood are pretty slim. Shipping works fine and you can insure.