I am thinking about sending a Westley Richards receiver off to be re case color/ hardened. The hinge pin stays in during the process and I am wondering how the metallurgy would be when all is said and done. Maybe not even a concern? Thanks!

Is the pin machined in place? If so it will be fine. I would anneal the works first.

Gil:
The case harden shop I use (when I simply must have it done) is never worried about the hinge pin if it must be left in place. And by the results, there is no harm done if you case it with the rest of the frame.

I recommend you consult John Gillette of Classic Guns, Crete IL.

gil: dont do it! the risks are far to great to mess up a gun as valuable as a westley richards.

however, you might consider the following approach. sent a gun of lesser value to the case hardening mechanic as a trial project. if he destroys that one, then you have learned a valuable lesson, without damage to your fine gun.

also, consider the affect of receiver rehardening on the resale value of your richards. regardless of how successful the mechanic is in recoloring your receiver, the gun will always carry the stigma of having a non factory rehardened receiver of unknown quality.

Y'all better listen ta Ed. No finer gun eggspert on da planet!

He done whupped up some mighty fine shootin' irons, he did.