What to do
 

I just picked up this 1917 as part of a trade. As can be sen, it has seen better days. It was buried in the back yard. Surprisingly, the bore is pretty good, and it shoots all right. All numbers are matching, I can not find any numbers on the grips. What do I do with it. Any ideas.
Thanks....Chip

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Frazer,

There's not much that you can do. I would make a nice wooden wall plaque and use it as a wall hanger.

Ron

Let it rest in peace!!

Heck No! If it functions fine, and shoots well, slap a coat of THIS on it and SHOOT IT!!!
Who'se back yard was it found in? I wish I could find things like that in my backyard. I have rocks and nails in mine...

Here is a link to a refinishing job I did on a 1917 DWM that wasn't quite as bad, but still in need of a new "luster":
My 1917 Shooter

I would be extremely cautious about shooting anything that has been buried and in that condition. I can't even imagine trying to shoot it. The wall plaque is an excellent suggestion. Bill

If the rust has fully permeated the metal, and at it's very possible that it has. It could go off like a grenade if fired. I would retire it, and just enjoy looking at it.

Ron

It would make a cool looking hammer on the pistol workbench.