Michigan resources for Model 1882 SXS high grade 12 GA

[MARTY_PELTIER]

I am looking for resources in Michigan or surrounding areas regarding my recent find. I have a E. Remington & Son Model 1882 Grade 5 12 Gauge shotgun in amazing condition - started to strip the "Brown" off the metal but not sure if I am damaging more than cleaning. No idea on value either as is or restored - or even what it would take to restore. Beautiful engraving everywhere and very clean furniture. Tight and appears fully functional although I wouldn't dare shoot it without correct period ammunition - but have no intention anyways. Any information or dialog appreciated.

Marty Peltier

[2shooter]

The Damascus barrels are suppose to be brown the receiver, locks and forend iron color case.If it is that nice I would leave it be.To me its worth more like it is be careful on you cleaning. Do not use sand paper. Do not refinish the wood.

[Drew Hause]

ANY attempt at a clean-up, done wrong, will substantially diminish the value and collectability of the gun. Simply wipe down the metal parts with RemOil at this point.
Bachelder in Grand Rapids could give you an idea as to the cost of a check and clean vs. a full restoration, and then do the work.
616-459-3636
http://www.mastergunmakers.com/

[dieNusse1]

Wonderful find!!

The 1882 was produced from 1882 until 1888 with some 16,000 guns produced. In 1888, E. Remington went bankrupt and was reformed as Remington Arms Co. As a result, all prior hammer dbl models were discontinued and the 1889 was introduced. The 1889 was the last hammer gun produced by Remington with production ending in 1910 along with the two dbl hammerless models (1894 & 1900). Remington saw the future in terms of the new pump and auto loader models.

As far as firing - if the gun checks out safe a black powder load should be fine. The rule of thumb is equal VOLUMES of powder and shot.

As for smokeless loads - Smokeless ammunition was just being introduced during the mid 1880s. Many of us do shoot smokeless loads that produce pressures no more than 5,000 psi or so.

[paul harm]

I weekly shoot nitro loads in my 1873, 1882, 1889, and 1894s. Not each one, but one or two of them go to the club where I shoot three times a week. I reload, so it's not difficult to get low pressure loads. Mine are under 8000psi, but there are many loads out there for the handloader from 5000psi and up. The gun doesn't know if it's BP or nitro producing the pressure and Remington use to advertise that all their guns were good for nitro or BP. Bachelder once told me the British brown their Damascus, we Americans blacken ours. He hated to brown Damascus barrels. It's a shame Brad passed away so early in life.

[paul harm]

Marty, why do you think it's a grade 5 gun ? Those are quite rare. I noticed the screw in the top tang wasn't engraved and the wood looked quite plain for a grade 5. Show us a picture or the type of Damascus the barrels have and a good view of the locks. Maybe I'm wrong with my assessment.