Refinishing 1981 dated Winchester 94

[44-henry]

Hello, I have the opportunity to purchase a Winchester 94 made in 1981 for a cheap price, the gun is badly in need of refinishing and I'm considering taking on another project. I would like to reblue it with the Winchester Restorations (www.winrest.com) product and restock it with a fancy grade of walnut, however I'm a little hesitant because I have heard that some of the post 64 Winchesters were vary difficult to reblue. It does have rust on the receiver so I would suspect that is a good sign, but I don't want to invest any money in it until I hear a bit about them. I know I should stick around for a pre-64, but I don't see many in this area in a reasonable price range and in the condition that I seek.

Also, did Winchester improve the quality over time on the post 64 guns, I heard that the early ones were total garbage, when, if ever, did this situation start to change?

 

[Old Fuff]

I suggest you call Brownells at (800) 741-0015 and talk to someone in their technical department. Among many other things they make bluing salts and other finishing supplies.

Yes, there is a problem with some Winchester 94 receivers. Because the steel they used was resistant to regular bluing, they plated these receivers and then blued them. Otherwise they tended to come out purple. Someone like Dave Bennetts at Brownells can give you the straight dope. Have the serial number of your rifle handy, as they may need it.