I posted this on anther site, but would like to see what responses I get here as well.
I have a couple of guns that I shoot very well but are very plain. I'm considering putting some engraving on one or both of them. I know some of you have done similar projects, so I have a few questions.
1. Can guns that have been case hardened be re-engraved? If so, then am I correct in assuming that they have to be re-hardened afterword?
2. Can the original minimal engraving be removed and replaced by new engraving? Does this significantly change the shape of the action?
3. One of the guns I'm considering is a Beretta with cheesy gold inlays on the sides, I assume there are some kind of notches or holes in the action holding the gold in, can they be filled in? The gun also has what appears to be chemically applied case colors, I assume those can be removed.
4. What are the best resources for finding a good engraver to do the work, and how much can I expect to pay for some game scene engraving?
I know I'll never get my money out of these guns if I do this, but I shoot the guns extremely well and I think I would get a great deal of pleasure out of having them re-engraved with something meaningful to me.
Thanks,
DH