[David S]

Do getting and antique gun reblued or otherwise refinished harm its value? im sure it would to some extent, but im wondering how much. i have several walthers that , are in good condition, but could be touched up a bit............is this a sin to do so?

[Walt Sherrill]

If they're run-of-the-mill guns, it probably doesn't matter. Just because a gun's old doesn't mean it has special value.

If the gun is a collectible (WWI Lugers, early 1911s, etc.), rebluing can (and probably will) greatly lower their value -- unless its done by a very competent, professional restorer. (A "rough" collectible will often bring MUCH more than a "fixed" collectible.)

If your Walthers are "correct" WWII versions, and otherwise in good shape, rebluing won't help and will likely hurt greatly.

If you've got a collectible -- and a WWII P-38 could be one -- just leave it like it is, or take it to a "restorer" who's work will NOT degrade the marketability of the gun.

If its a good quality gun that you like, and want to make it look better, have it done professionally, by a competent gunsmith or refinisher. But don't expect values to go up with the extra expense.

[Nick96]

I think Walt pretty much nailed it. Old guns are kind of like old wood furniture and old cars. Messing around with the original finish generally decreases the collector value. But, not all old furniture, cars and guns are collector classics - and there is always a market for old stuff that looks new (or as it would have looked new).

If you really think you have a classic, get it professionally appraised. It would be a shame to devalue a piece by a few percentage points on something in the 3 figures catagory. But devaluing an original finish $500 gun to $400 for the same re-finished piece - who cares?