Red, there are very skilled "smiths" who can usually repair dents to the point of "almost invisible." Metal science wise, dents of modest size and shape pose no particular issue; they are not going to grow or suddenly rupture. Yielded steel is "stronger" than the surrounding unyielded steel.
The bug in the ointment is the case of a bulge in the between-the-ribs area. Then, the barrels must be disassembled to repair - - - think $$$.
To a collector, once damaged always damaged. To a shooter, howz she shoot?
DDA
