You'd be better off, posting this under the "Gunmetal: Machining, Fixing, Restoration, etc. Forum.

 

BTW, do you know if these rifles were slow rust blued, or Hot blued?

 

What are you looking to achieve? The expensive guns you are seeing are most likely original in finish and in top condition hence the cost, but they will continue to appreciate in value.

Cheaper guns that need refinishing will always be a refinished gun and will always be worth less money. Once you Re-blue the metal you will need to re-do the wood too. That becomes a big project that can cost a lot. You could easily end up with more money in the gun than it’s worth, and it will always be a refinished gun.

If you are looking for just a shooter, get one of the worn ones that is in good condition, shoot it and don’t worry about putting a blemish on it. Keep it oiled up to protect it from the elements. Just my thoughts…

 

I will add that, in my experience, well used firearms with overall bluing wear can actually resist corrosion better than a newly re-blued rifle. Yes, while a freshly polished rifle will quickly rust up, the natural patina created from decades of handling of even a very bare looking gun somehow resists rust. So, as mentioned above, you could easily get more money into buying a worn rifle and having it refinished than what you would pay for one with its original finish intact. The former will not retain its value, and your refinished rifle may not have the very corrosion resistance you are seeking. I would buy a well used 61 and just use normal care. My guess is you won't have a single corrosion issue with it.

 

I thank everyone for their suggestions!

I want a shooter and I have taken your suggestions and will forget about refinishing one, blue ware is ok, I just do not want a lot of scratches. Wood ware is ok, I can do wood work if needed.

I thank the member who sent me a PM and recommended a bluing company! I will use that company for another project I have.

Finding a 61 in Arizona at a reasonable price has been a chore, I am still looking. Even Remington Model 12s well worn with some rust the gun show folks are asking $900+

Everyone seems to think the prices on Gunbroker establishes the value of a firearm. If they take the time to follow some of the listings they will see the 61s are not selling at the prices being asked. One exception is the 22 Mag version.

 

Good luck. It's the completed auctions of rifles that actually sold that is the barometer of market value, not some bozo's asking price. On your search, patience will be your friend. I'm sure you can find something. You might also consider one that has already been refinished well. The price should reflect the refinish, however. Doug Turnbull has the best reputation for factory-like restorations, but his work does not come cheap. On the positive side, a Turnbull-restored rifle will likely retain its value more than a no-name refinisher.

 

Yes, Doug Turnbull is by far the best for a museum quality restoration. His fees would be probably double what a NIB original would cost.