Refinishing a Savage/Enfield .303

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srk

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Hi
Hope this is the right forum.
I have a Savage .303 , with "US Propery" stamped on the reciever.
The butt stock is pretty rough, as is the lower front.
Both upper hand guards are ok.
I was curious before I start, if this piece has an serious collector value?
Any input would be greatly appreciated before I start.
Thanks
Sean
 
You certainly have the right forum, a Mk 1* Savage would have been made from 1942-1945 so certainly ex-WW2 . Early Savage models seem to be desirable, though not at any great premium in price. (Savage made their first No 4 models as Mk 1 , like the British models with the push-button bolt release, then switched in 1942 to the Mk 1* version.
A good cleaning can make it look better, but be careful not to remove the "patina" (ie, don't sand down the woodwork, give it a coat of black spraypaint and call it "restored" ) , it is probably worth more in original condition, than restored and refinished.
Some chemical stripper will remove a grungy old finish, re-oil with some linseed oil ( look up threads on whether you want BLO boiled or RLO raw, lots of opinions) and will look much better.
Most all Savage models had US Property stamped due to the Lend-Lease act of 1941. If it doesn't, it was either a very rare early model, or had been ground off.
 
I'll add that you shouldn't sand the wood stock. I don't like using harsh strippers. I've used alcohol to gently clean the grime away.

Also, super fine steel wool used gently on the metal will clean and remove any rust without damaging any remaining blueing. No oil, just dry and be very careful not to scrub too hard.

It's a lot of fun. Enjoy the end result.
 
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