Antique Firearm Options

[TWtommers]

A friend of mine showed me this pistol that's been in her family for years.



From what I can see (and Google) its a Model 1858 Navy from Starr Arms in .44 Caliber. The numbers on the cylinder and frame match. I can't get the action to work nor can I get it open. Its rusted to hell but might be salvageable (by my guess). The owner wants to keep it because of its family history. Evidently, this was carried by a many times great grandfather. The wood grip is actually notched 7 times, presumably for confederate kills.

The question is, what can be done to this firearm? I realize that much of an antique firearm's value comes from its condition/originality so I'm assuming that restoring the gun would dramatically reduce its monetary value. However, I do know that the owner would love to see it restored to a better, if not functional, condition.

 

[Independence Arms]

Soak it in some Marvel Mystery oil, and see if it will open up.

 

[cockpitbob]

You have only 2 choices, preserve its originality or make it shootable and shoot it. Either way, I would oil it to arrest the decay.

It's rusted enough that I seriously doubt it has much value in "original condition". If it can be made to fire, I would not worry about preserving the originality in favor of having a working gun.

 

[Sir_Macadoo]

or let it soak in Kroil for a week and see what happens. Take the grips off first.

 

[smokey-seven]

There is also the reverse electrolysis method for rust removal.


Full description below and it's not expensive.

http://antique-engines.com/electrol.asp

 

[Sweeney]

There is also the reverse electrolysis method for rust removal.


Full description below and it's not expensive.

http://antique-engines.com/electrol.asp

This would be my suggestion. I've used this technique quite a few times on various items including a BMW engine block.

It looks like it may be missing the trigger pivot/screw as well. If one can't found it could certainly be made.

 

[TWtommers]

There is also the reverse electrolysis method for rust removal.


Full description below and it's not expensive.

http://antique-engines.com/electrol.asp

I like this idea a lot. I'll pass this one on! Thanks.

Sounds like the consensus is what I was already thinking. The gun isn't worth much in its current condition so we might as well make it a shooter if possible.

Tom