I missed something. Depending on the time frame...i.e. CW or exploring out west, to me dictated some of the treatment and or attention the "life saver" got.
To us today it is a hobby, a sport an enjoyment. My next meal or next breath does not depend on that gun. Think about getting on a horse, covered wagon, stagecoach and striking off from Richmond Va. to the area 1000 to 1500 miles away that had not even been settled yet. It was uncivilized back then. I think I would keep my firearm(s) in great condition, since my life could should or would depend on it. What do you pack to take on such a trip? Who do you trust? Sleep on the way....where? Eat where and what? Gun involved in any of that?
I think and from what I have seen, read, and heard from the Italian maker Pedersoli......they really do care and are trying. They have for sure won a lot of world class shooting metals with their products and are truly and rightly proud of the fact. Google it. I like mine, glad to have them. Want more of them. Would love to go to their factory. Go to YouTube and search Pedersoli factory.
They cleaned them with what they could get and more importantly when they could or where they could get it. They packed around lead and made their own balls. We go on line or call and order it delivered to our door.
"Excellent job. Looks like something you'd find tucked in the sash of some bandito down on the Rio Grande! That's what I'm talking about, THAT, THAT RIGHT THERE, is why antiqued and defarbed repros are badass."
Agreed, but the vaquero may have been only trying to keep the only weapon he acquired by whatever means functioning or service himself better. A lot of people adjusted a lot of guns.
Mis dos centavos