A very controversial subject. Some people have the innate ability to properly repair things, and some simply never will. The proof is seen in millions of guns with buggered screw slots and gray epoxy stock repairs. Tools can be bought and techniques can be taught, but I believe real skill is more of a genetic trait. A few days ago, I clicked on a link Ted posted to Dewey Vicknair's blog. While perusing his projects and reading his thoughts on two-year trade school graduates who call themselves gunsmiths, he stated that a proper repair on a gun should be virtually undetectable. He also noted correctly that far too many firearm restorations are not restorations at all, but actually nothing more than refinishing with incorrect materials and methods. Far too many so-called professionals do not even come close to that standard. And while there are some highly skilled amateurs, there are many more who do not know their own limitations.
Then there are the guys who buy a gun with known issues at a somewhat reasonable price. They then promptly ship it out to a high priced gunsmith to make it right. After waiting a year or so to get it back, we see them posting pictures here, and making excuses why they don't care if they are severely upside down, and will never recover their costs. Brilliant!
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