Model 12 Restoration

[Classiclover]

I purchased a 1957 20 Gauge Winchester Model 12 for $250 Saturday to restore. My "Restorations" vary based on the firearm as I am an amateur and I also like to retain originality and value. Although it is excellent mechanically, it has 1 thing that I am uncertain as to how to approach. It has pitting on the receiver and externally near the muzzle. This does not affect safety or functionality and is only cosmetic. Only resolutions I know of are either replacement, professional gunsmithing, or just re-blue and do the best I can. As of now, I'm leaning toward the latter.

Bolt and trigger assembly were black with crud, but they are cleaning up nicely. Stock is beat up but I can handle that with no problem. Forearm has damage I think I can fix but I can replace it for around $50 if necessary. Any suggestions about the pitting (or anything else) would be appreciated.

 

[Classiclover]

More....

Here's a shot of the receiver.

 

[BBBBill]

A pro would draw file and sand those pits, at least those on the receiver. Really deep ones might get some professional TIG welding before filing and sanding. Look here for a lot of videos of restorations - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCezdPqmlJxYOUeVjscwd39w There's at least one M-1 rifle with similar pitting in one of the videos.

 

[Jim K]

I think a Model 12 deserves a professional tank blue, not cold blue or paint. Since you have the gun almost torn down, finish the job and call some of the folks who advertise bluing services. You will usually get a decent discount if they don't have to disassemble and re-assemble the gun. (Make notes on the disassembly so you can get it back together again with no problem.)

Jim

 

[Classiclover]

Back together

Thanks but I don't do gunsmiths if possible. Took a while to reassemble as I kept putting things back in the wrong order and had to start over. It's really a nice piece once you figure it out. Except for what you can see which is cosmetic, it's in excellent condition. I stripped the receiver and barrel down to shiny steel and wire brushed the pitting as best as I could. It was only in 2 places and doesn't show except when the light hits it right. I super glued a piece of walnut in the forearm which only shows when the camera flash hits it. The blemishes show up in the pics. The stock was beat up but due to it's thickness I was able to get it looking good without any major alteration. Think I could double my money if I wanted to sell it but my intention is to carry it in the woods. Thanks very much for your suggestions.

 

[loose noose]

You're right it's a woods gun, as far as increasing it's value, that would be questionable.