SAA Colt 38-40 Finish Restoration

[Bwmart22]

I have a SAA 38-40 Colt Revolver that I want to get restored. Owned by my Great Grandfather, it was reblued by my uncle in the 50’s. He also replaced the grips with walnut. The gun is in great shape. No pitting. Mechanically sound. I’m considering Turnbull Restorations in Bloomfield NY to restore the finish. They claim to restore a finish that will return the value to near original condition. Anyone ever heard of or used them? I’m sure its expensive, but I have an heirloom that I would like to preserve

 

[Bwmart22]

 

[baboon]

I have seen Turnball’s work and it is spectacular.

 

[Lonesome Dove]

Turnbull but he ain't cheap or very timely.

 

[Geezer]

Turn bill is good but no refinish will return the value to original finish.

 

[Bwmart22]

Expecting it to be very expensive. Just want to be sure it would be worth it. The current blue job does not do it justice. Are there other alternatives in the Houston area that anyone would suggest?

 

[Bwmart22]

Turn bill is good but no refinish will return the value to original finish.

Original finish is what I’m after…that would be great

 

[lightflyer1]

The original finish is what is there now. Nothing you can do will restore that or increase its value. If you plan to just keep it forever with no intent to sell, then go ahead. If you are worried about the value leave it stock. Guns are like old cars, they are original only once, even if you completely rebuild them. A completely rebuilt car to new condition still isn't worth an original car in new condition. You have to decide where it lies for you. As a memento of your GGF or as a collectible firearm. That will determine your path.

 

[1911'S 4 Me]

Expecting it to be very expensive. Just want to be sure it would be worth it. The current blue job does not do it justice. Are there other alternatives in the Houston area that anyone would suggest?

Lohman's Gunsmithing

 

[justmax]

The "original" finish went away forever when it was re-blued in the 50s. A Turnbull finish may add some value as a "Turnbull" over the unknown re-blue. However, no matter how good the job was, it will never be equal to the original finish.

How about a Turnbull with some added bling and make it a BBQ gun. The attention will let you tell its story.

 

[Moonpie]

Turnbull is the place.
Expect it to cost $2000 or more costs + many months turn around

 

[zackmars]

View attachment 361473

Honestly doesn't look half bad. Get some wear on it and it'll look even better

 

[Bwmart22]

I totally understand that the original finish is gone and not an option. I don’t like the reblue finish. I like the idea of the Turnball option. Not worried about the timeline. I would never sell it.

 

[Geezer]

Ford's in Florida does outstanding work, equal to Turnbull. I have seen several examples of their work and it is amazing. They have about a 9 month turnaround time now.

Ford's Custom Gun Refinishing | Crystal River, FL

Ford's Custom Plating offers custom gun refinishing services, including Chrome, Nickel, Hot Blue, 24K Gold Plating, and Laser Engraving of your firearm.

www.fordsguns.com

 

[BigRed]

I have a SAA 38-40 Colt Revolver that I want to get restored. Owned by my Great Grandfather, it was reblued by my uncle in the 50’s. He also replaced the grips with walnut. The gun is in great shape. No pitting. Mechanically sound. I’m considering Turnbull Restorations in Bloomfield NY to restore the finish. They claim to restore a finish that will return the value to near original condition. Anyone ever heard of or used them? I’m sure its expensive, but I have an heirloom that I would like to preserve

What a great inheritance!

 

[V-Tach]

Do you have a factory letter? Worthwhile on SAA's....imho...

 

[Vaquero]

Between great grandfather and an uncle, I'd be inclined to preserve it as is.
It looks damned good to me.

 

[Mills]

Shoot it and enjoy.
38-40 is a great cartridge.

 

[Army 1911]

Turnbull will buff it again and the roll marks will look softer than they do now and they already look soft. Leave it alone.

To reblue and restore the roll marks will be way more than the gun is worth.

 

[Geezer]

Turnbull will buff it again and the roll marks will look softer than they do now and they already look soft. Leave it alone.

To reblue and restore the roll marks will be way more than the gun is worth.

Ford's can re-stamp the wording and logos for only a few cents per letter. I'm sure that Turnbull will have this capability, too.