WOW i pretty much cried

[Mojaveman]

Now were talking!

I don't mind a restoration on a rifle that badly needs it, like Milsurp Collector's recent G98, but there are plenty of milsurps that don't need refinishing that get it anyway.

You are absolutely correct and I agree with your philosophy. Surplus rifles that are still in pretty good condition are better left alone because they still hold their value. The ones I like to work on are the ones that I find at gunshows or gunstores that nobody wants. The first thing that I check is the bore and if that is ok and there isn't too much rust on the outside then I look at the stock. Even bad stocks can be made to look pretty good again. What I don't like are too many cracks or water damage. When I find one that I like then I get started and after many hours of tedious work admire my new babies when their done.