I have recently acquired an 1883 deluxe Winchester. I got this because it is missing some parts which are not available. The seller did not want to spend the money to restore this fine firearm. I am machining, hand filing, and heat treating these parts. So soon the 45-70 will be completed. It will look original.
The question I'm wrestling with is should I engrave this as part of the total restoration? If I do engrave it, should I copy a winchester pattern or develop my own? On its own the rifle is very nice with exhibition wood, octagon barrel, checkering, and ebony inlays. The rifle is in about 70% plus condition with the barrel bore clean and crisp. Doug Turnbull could make this one a heart stopper. Marty Rabino could make this rifle appear on Turpin's next book cover. I would like some input from my engraving colleagues.
The question I'm wrestling with is should I engrave this as part of the total restoration? If I do engrave it, should I copy a winchester pattern or develop my own? On its own the rifle is very nice with exhibition wood, octagon barrel, checkering, and ebony inlays. The rifle is in about 70% plus condition with the barrel bore clean and crisp. Doug Turnbull could make this one a heart stopper. Marty Rabino could make this rifle appear on Turpin's next book cover. I would like some input from my engraving colleagues.
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