If I were you, I'd ask the hunters in your area, and anyone who handles a lot of guns, traders, and shops, etc. The one you hear their name popping up most, with a good report, is generally who to seek out. To me, I would say overall experience is the main plus, but then again, I have seen some mighty good young gunsmiths, too. Also, ask around who's refinishing guns, especially hot bluing. If the gun looks like a factory job when they're finished, then they have experience. If they look like a sucked on lolly-pop, from aggressive polishing, or pits are present in all the bluing, then pass them on by.