Recommended gunsmith to restore a winnie

[handirifle]

A co-worker approached me, about another co-worker, that he and his brother were each given a 1886 (he thinks) Win, about 40 years ago. One kept his pristine and the other didn't, in fact he had his name engraved in it.

Well, now the wayword brother wants to restore his, if possible, and pass it down the family line. They will send it anywhere, but need to find a smith with a good reputation for restoring Winchesters. Not 100% sure on the model, but not sure how much that matters at this point.

Any names and links or addresses, or phone numbers come to mind? Please give only names of those youi've either seen their work or had it done by them yourself. I don't want to give him a name on hearsay.

Thanks

[AndyM]

Remember you have to pay for quality...
The first one coming to mind is Doug Turnbull
http://www.turnbullrestoration.com/

I never had any dealings with him, although I do have an older sales flyer, his stuff sure does look nice, but expensive... The typical gun magazines sure do write about him quite often...

[Griff]

1st one that comes to mind is Mike Hunter. At least a couple of guys on this forum can recommend him based on the work he's done. Check out his website.

Also, you might check this list: Leveraction Gunsmiths

Just in case ya'll skip it, you'll find lots of useful info on the "home page" for Leverguns.com

[KirkD]

I'd recommend Mike Hunter. I sent him an eyesore of an '86 and got back a gorgeous work of art. You can see the before and after photos on his Examples page.

[handirifle]

OK thanks guys, I printed out all the links posted and will let him decide.

[Mike Hunter]

Still doing restorations

Thanks

Mike

[KirkD]

Here's a couple photos of the '86 .40-82 that Mike Hunter restored for me .....



The blue spots on the stock in the photo below are reflections of the sky from the nearby window. The wood is gorgeous. The color case hardening is the real bone & charcoal process. My experience with Mike is that he is a craftsman who takes pride in presenting to his customer a first class restoration.

[Bridger]

That thing takes the breath out of me every time I see it.

[Ysabel Kid]

That thing takes the breath out of me every time I see it.

I'll say! Where is a whistling smiley when you need one?

[Griff]

That thing takes the breath out of me every time I see it.

I'll say! Where is a whistling smiley when you need one?

That gun is the reason I'd recommend Mike to anyone looking for a restoration. No whistlin' smiley, but...