Browning BSS?

[kgcabs]

I have a Browning 12 gauge side by side I bought new in 1976. I used the gun to hunt Nebraska pheasants with my dad for probably 15 years (3 hunting days per year). The lumber and bluing show signs of wear. I am considering re-doing the stock and forearm. Will re-finishing the wood lower the value?








Thanks for the input, Karl

[dfletcher]

The only shotgun I've owned for over 30 years is the Browning BSS, 20 gauge with a straight stock. Have to say, I was surprised as heck at how much they go for in excellent condition.

I don't know if they've reached the "shouldn't be refinished" stage - does Browning offer factory refinishing?

[kgcabs]

The only shotgun I've owned for over 30 years is the Browning BSS, 20 gauge with a straight stock. Have to say, I was surprised as heck at how much they go for in excellent condition.

I don't know if they've reached the "shouldn't be refinished" stage - does Browning offer factory refinishing?

I called. Since the gun is no longer in production, they will not.

[Thefeeder]

refin

Refinishing will lower the value. Unless you dup the buyer into assuming they are buying a non refinished gun. Even Factory Refinished is refinished and a good buyer will be able to tell.

[dfletcher]

It looks like cleaning and a touch up would improve its condition, nothing too drastic.

[remington]

You wont get your money by refinshing IMO. They are great guns, but they are field guns. Set your price and if someone buys as is then great. Wish I did a few years ago when they were $800 all day long. These are great guns and great hand-me-downs to sons and daughters. Id hang on to it. Its the only vintage (sort of) SxS by a american company other than the 21 and 23. Personally, I wish I never sold or traded any guns that had anything to do with my Dad.

I say leave it alone and keep it if you can....

[tankerman]

I shoot a 12ga BSS.

Why you selling?

[kgcabs]

I shoot a 12ga BSS.

Why you selling?

Good question. I shoot mostly 22's now. My dad is not able hunt anymore and it's just not the same without him.

But it is good to pull it out from the back of the safe every so often and just look at it. There are times I can't remember what I did yesterday but I can remember, like it was yesterday, my dad carrying the gun with his gloved hand around the receiver...the spot where the bluing is most worn.


Thanks guys.

[remington]

Awesome

[midvalleyshooter]

Good question. I shoot mostly 22's now. My dad is not able hunt anymore and it's just not the same without him.

But it is good to pull it out from the back of the safe every so often and just look at it. There are times I can't remember what I did yesterday but I can remember, like it was yesterday, my dad carrying the gun with his gloved hand around the receiver...the spot where the bluing is most worn.

Hell, I'd be a fool to sell it.

Thanks guys.

Friend it sounds like the value in this shotgun is in the memories it holds for you. The finish wear is part of what makes it so. I suggest you don't refinish it and certainly don't sell it.

Keith