Help with valuing a 17E

[Recoil Rob]

I may have a chance to purchase this once lovely 17E, It has been languishing in a basement for many years and the owner is finally motivated to sell. The wood can be brought back but the metal will require a complete redo and much re-engraving and screw repair. Taking into account the condition issues and what it will take to make this gun right what would you think to be a fair price to pay?

Who to do such work?

Also, does anyone offer a service for lettering Remington guns?

thanks, Rob

[Recoil Rob]

Not mine yet, still in negotiations. Thanks for the info, I have decided that if it does end up with me it will be cleaned and minimally restored.


thanks,

Rob

[300 Savage]

I would use 4 "OOOO" steel wool and rem oil on the metal. It would look 100% better. I would not replace the screws since they are engraved, maybe just the one that is really buggered. As far as the wood, I would use a good stripper that would removed the finish but leaves the stain and patina. I would repoint the checkering and steam out any dents. Then refinish the wood using a hand rubbed oil finish such as Dembarts checkering oil. I would wet sand the oil into the wood using 220 and 320 grade paper. I would want to leave as much of the old stain and patina in the wood as possible. I would not sand the wood prior to refinsihing unless you see something really bad that is not in the photos. Sanding will remove the orginal stain and cut into the wood cells and raise the grain. Always remember little is better than two much.
Pretty gun, if by any chance you deceide to pass please let me know. 300 Savage (mjanusch@peoplepc.com)