Pete,
Thanks for rubbin it in.
. Think I am going to see what the upcomming HGCA will bring. Here is the "issue" for me (OH GREAT, another "issue" from a newbie).
I have a really nice (IMO) "restored" 1917 Arty from, drum roll please, Lugerman (dahn, dahn, dahhnnnn). Have heard various reports of his work but Eugene did better than good by me on this one. From the posts here (various tutorials, sticky's, and posts) it is really hard to tell this one has been redone. Edges are VERY sharp, all markings/proofs/numbers are where they should be and are clear and sharp. Only thing that really stands out is it is rustblued to the muzzle and it looks "too good". I have been told that the metal was durn near perfect in condition but that it had almost no finish left when project was started.
Will post pics when I can get around to it and let you guys pick me apart but the point is that I really like this gun. I wanted a "as close to new" Arty for a shooter, this one came up on GB, and I think the pricing I got if for was much more than fair (under 1500.00). In short, this thing looks like a zillion bucks to me and shoots WAY better than I am ever going to be able to, and I don't have to lose sleep about ruining something that has HUGE collector value.
But...it seems that pricing is going looney on these items. My thoughts were to add a high quality repro stock, go with a high quality repro leather set up, and have a nice shootin rig that really turns heads (just like my C96 does when stocked up and rockin). Maybe I am better off adding original items to Mr. Arty? What do you guys think on that? Jerry's response on patience is very duly noted and holds a lot of appeal. My bad that I did not get this particular bug earlier but I am dumping some super prime Smiths and prewar Colts to feed my addiction.
So what is the "harm" done if I add original items (anyone have stock iron 3933 out there?)? And is there any "harm" done to either use repro or restored items mixed with originals? What about Trommels? Would it not detract value to have one restored? Does that same hold true for wooden items like stocks? I would think that leather restoration would be a GOOD thing too but I am new here and seeking the light in the wilderness.
Thanks for the help to date and keep your thoughts coming. I may definately be billed for the therapy.
Tim