Navy Mag, restore or leave as is.

[DonVoigt]

Originally Posted by Norme

Hi Bill,
I think every collector, sooner or later, grapples with these same questions. What is an acceptable repair and what is not? My standard is to do what might be called a field repair, to restore function but not enhance appearance. So I would certainly have a torn belt loop or closure strap on a holster replaced, but would draw the line at a chipped grip or magazine base. In the case of the O.P.'s magazine, I would have recommended that he have a cracked base glued but to leave the chipped ears alone.
I guess you could sum up my philosophy as: Repair, yes. Restore, no.
Regards, Norm

Norm,
Your "philosophy" is summed up nicely, and I could not agree more!

I have a real "problem" when refinishing/restoration slides into re-cutting or re-applying markings and welding and removal of pits, etc. I just don't see how such a restoration can be considered in any way original; and consider it closer to "fake" than original.

I know many do this, and like it, and pay large sums to have it done- but for me such changes do not "add" anything and "subtract" originality. But that is the free choice others can make if they wish.

Some may have seen the thread on the Dreyse I had "restored", it is nice, but I really am not happy with it - and now wish I had just left it alone.


Repair yes, "enhance = restore", no. JMHO.