Model 29 Refinish????

[mblake101]

Seeking input from this esteemed group. About six weeks ago, I sent my 1971 Model 29 to S&W for any needed care/tuning/parts and to also have it re-nickeled. The finish had developed a couple of pitted areas during long-term storage in humid Houston.

Smith sent me a letter this week outlining their evaluation. They stated a need to replace the 4" barrel and also gave a $220 quote to blue the weapon. They apparently no longer provide nickel services.

I am seeking your thoughts as to what route I should take to maintain the weapons value and utility. Should I blue an original nickel gun, should I hard chrome it, or should I sent it to an aftermarket weapon refinisher and allow them to re-nickel it?
In advance, thanks to all for any input on this!!!

 

[Jdomin]

I would allow them to repair the 29.I would keep it a nickel finish. Fords in Florida still do Nickel refinishing.My .02

 

[magmag]

It all depend on how important this gun is to you. Is this a family heirloom or ?

Lots of collectors will value any re-finish gun much lower in general. If its only $ value, I personally would have it fix to operational and have an original finish shooter.

 

[Bakebfr480]

What's wrong with the barrel?

 

[6string]

Unless the original nickel is really bad, refinishing your 29 is just "money spent lowering it's value".

It's only original once.

Personally, I'm not a fan of Ford's finishes. You can spot them a mile away. Too much "bling" and they soften the edges and detail too much.
(Reminds me of rare coins ruined by well meaning folks with too much time and Flitz on their hands!)

Separately...
What's wrong with the original barrel?

Jim

 

[mblake101]

Model 29 Refinish

Great responses thus far, thanks much.

As it pertains to the barrel, I have to call them to understand. They typed it has a "crease"????? I do not understand that term, so maybe it's a typo??? I'll know more tomorrow! Thx much!