I like to prowl the gunshops, looking at old SxS's -- and I sometime buy one that is in shootabe condition. But I see many more of old "classic" American doubles (Fox, Ithaca, Lefever, L. C. Smith, etc.)that are in terrible shape - split stocks. rusted barrels, pitted frames, etc. Usually they are priced anywhere from $300 to $1,000, and sit on the dealer's rack for a long time.
If it is a graded gun, it may be worth restoring. I did so on an "A" grade 1909 Fox, and have been pleased with the result. A complete restock and restoration cost me $1,300 about five years ago. Probably more expensive today...
Today i looked at a "G" grade Lefever (14,XXX)with Damascus barrels in rough shape, pits, a big stock split in the wrist, and butt stock shortened to 13" LOP. Barrels seemed to be original 30" F&M. Cabela's STL was asking $699, and came down all the way to $600 -- and I passed. I doubt that a restorer could remove all the pits, and make it look decent.
I wonder where these rough field grade guns end up? Do people buy them for wall-hangers? Parts guns? Are they project guns that actually do get restored? There seem to be a lot of these oldies showing up lately. It appears that eventually the dealer sell them to someone, but I wonder WHO?
Any thoughts or opinions?
JERRY
