arrieta:
You seem a bit contradictory. If you start with "well cared for guns", why fool with them at all? If they are certified "beaters" then they probably entail more work than is economically prudent to invest. Especially picking up the engraving -- which requires annealing the key bits, chasing the engraving, then re-hardening the lot at the risk of warpage/refit.
Just my personal opinion, but I'd rather have a patina-rich original that functions (if well cared for) than a glossy refurbished piece. But that's just me.
Best, Kensal
