Savage 32-20 Sporter Rifle - Refinishing

[Savage32-20]

I have a 19?? Savage Sporter Chambered in 32-20. It was originally My grandmothers (from what I've been told). I don't know exactly what year the gun is but the serial number is 474XX (yes only 5 digits).

The gun appears to be all original at - the front of the stock has a chunk of wood missing (but does not affect functionality). The safety is missing and the front sight is bent (round site with dot on top (') like that (bent downward). I'm also missing part of the rear site adjustment (the slide). The gun shows some heavy rust in places - BUT the gun fires perfectly and I can get a 1" group at 40 yards with 20-30 year old ammo.

I have taken this gun completely apart and cleaned all of the "gunk" out of it. (also inspected its functionality) and it is all good. My question is would having this gun PROPERLY refinished ruin it's value. This means taking it to a quality gunsmith and having them do the barrel and workings properly and maybe purchasing a new stock (but keeping the old one and any replaced parts). Replacing the missing safety, and sight parts and also the broken front site.

The gun is fun to shoot, I just don't want to watch it slowly deteriorate to where it is no longer of any value and can't be fired. Looking for the best way to preserve/refinish it. If anyone can give me an idea of how old the gun actually is would also be much appreciated. Pictures can be added if needed to help determine the best methods!

Thanks

 

[Scorch]

would having this gun PROPERLY refinished ruin it's value

From your description, no, it would not negatively affect the rifle's value. Those are neat old rifles, I would love to have one just for grins and giggles.

 

[Mike Irwin]

Is it a bolt action?

If so, it's probably a Model 23A or 23B.

I have one in .25-20.

 

[steve99f]

Savage 32-20

It's a Model 23 C. The 23 A was a 22 LR, The B was 25-20 and the D was 22 Hornet. All pre ww II.

The cost of refinish will probably exceed the value of the gun as a shooter. The other thing to consider when refinishing is you'll be erasing all the character put on the rifle by the family. Your rifle though.