There is a subjective component to restoring/refinishing. Ususally, it does not make sense as the cost of the original pistol plus the restore cost is greater than a more desirable original would be. But, in this case you've got the gun in hand rather cheaply and all other things being equal, refinish makes a little more sense.
It really depends on your own preferences. For example, I found a "shooter" once with an excellent bore but a rough receiver,. Having a good looking pistol with an excellent bore was, to me personally, desirable so I had the receiver refinished by Charles Danner (do a search and you will find his contact info). Charles is known for his excellent work, reasonable rates and fast turnarounds. I am very pleased with the result, but it is unlikely I will refinish future 'shooters' unless some other unusual combination of circumstances exists. Each must decide for themselves, but the general rule is that unless there is something special or unusual about the pistol it doesn't pay to get it restored.
In your case, the surface looks very good and all parts were salt blued on '38 Mausers, no strawed parts; those two factors will tend to decrease restore time and therefore cost. If it has an excellent bore, and functions well, and you find the idea of a like-new finish attractive (that subjective factor again), restore becomes an option.
Some, and perhaps many Luger collectors take a sort of pride or enjoyment in having shooters with finish issues. They tend to view the matter as, if you want a pretty gun there's plenty of new (non-Luger) choice at Cabela's. That view makes sense too. I would suggest enjoy the pistol for now, learn about it and defer any decision on refinish.
|