Estimating Remaining Finish
 

Is there a guidline for estimating the remaining finish on a firearm available? I know this is subjective, the seller will generaly estimate the finish at a higher percentage then the buyer . I always assumed that the percentage was an estimate of how much, if any, bare metal was actually exposed. Does the number also include an estimate of how thin the finish is perceived to be? The reason I ask is that the last couple of firearms I purchased through a major auction house the firearms were estimated to be 70% on one and 80% on the other, when I got them there was actually very little bare metal showing. There are several books on the market to help coin collectors estimate the grade of a coin, such as "Photograde", anything available for gun collectors? :confused:

Lon

To add to your question, is 'patina' considered 'remaining finish'??? :confused:

I once suggested that folks take lots of pictures and we would then grade them as a group. And everyone, I mean everyone gave me grief over it.. They all said, the Blue Book shows pictures and judge from that.

To me, if the overall appearance is 'thin' then it should be judged that way.
To me, if 'patina' is showing through, then it must have light bluing, that said, i have had guns that were browning, which is patina.
To me, I figure that the high points, sides of the forward part of the muzzle, sideplate, edges on the gun, etc.

I look it over and just give a feel for it. Ed

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I once suggested that folks take lots of pictures and we would then grade them as a group. And everyone, I mean everyone gave me grief over it.. They all said, the Blue Book shows pictures and judge from that.
Ed Tinker

Ed, that sounds like an excellent idea, I can't imagine why anyone would object to that. With such a big difference in the price of a collectable vs. a shooter Luger it just makes sense to have all the information available. Your idea sure gets my vote.

Lon

I agree with Lonnie agreeing with Bill. Sounds like a plan. :)