advice on broomhandle mauser

[sheepherder]

Originally Posted by ybz

...i asked the gun store owner, he said you can tell it wasn't reblued since the numbers appear crisp and not worn (something that happens when a firearm is prepared for re-bluing)...

He's referring to buffing, which is done to remove scratches, pits, rust, and any other blemish or cosmetic flaw. It's not absolutely necessary for reblueing; there are many chemicals which will strip the finish down to bare metal prior to reblueing wothout buffing.

Personally, I'm not terribly fussy about mismatched numbers, varnished stocks (or even repro stocks), relined barrels, wrong sights, or new grips. I just want it to be pleasing to my eyes. The price, however, *is* important. If I can get the same pistol all matching and original with no pitting and at least some blueing left, I'd rather have that. I'm not a collector; I'm an accumulator. I buy what I like, not what other people like. (I also buy pistols that I know are junk to work on, but that's another subject entirely).

Check Gunbroker.com, AuctionArms, GunsAmerica etc and see how that one stacks up against other pistols from other areas of the country. I've found that some specific pistols are regionally priced higher than others. A good looking Mauser on Gunbroker.com will have multiple pictures, and the seller is usually willing to post or email more. It's worth comparing your gunshops Broomhandle against others.

After you buy it, post some pics here and the more knowledgeable members will tell you if they think it was worth it or not...