I recently inherited an old Winchester 1897 in poor condition and I 'd like to have it restored. Does anyone know of a reputable restoration shop here in VA? In NOVA if it makes  a difference. Found several online but I'd like to avoid shipping it if possible. thanks

If it were an HK, I know EXACTLY who to send it to.

For what you have, I can't think of anybody instate. One thing you have to decide is if you want it refinished or truly restored. There are plenty of places in Virginia who can refinish it and make it look and shoot pretty good. A "restoration" is a whole different playing field.

If money is no object, Turnbull Restorations would be my first choice. However, they always have quite a backlog of work and yes, it will be expensive.



I am also interested if anybody has a real recommendation

thanks for the reply! I did come across Turnbill online and you confirmed my suspicions about them being pricey. I just want it looking decent so it lasts another 100 years. not factory restored new, just fix the finish and return it to a serviceable operating condition

I'm just finishing off a customers Winchester model 62, .22 caliber pump rifle. I tend to do alot of restore work since coming to NOVA 5 yrs ago. Get ahold of me and we can talk.

thank you pm sent

can you share some places that you know who do refinishing? thanks

I know of Hatfields in Manassas but I have never done any business with them so I don't know that I can recommend them.

I've had some NFA engraving done by Sterling Arsenal in NoVa and seen some of their work. Again, not really a recommendation.

I do recommend Jeff at US Tactical great guy! but I don't know if he works on lever actions.

I believe Blue Ridge Arsenal has a gunsmith who used to post in this forum but I cannot remember the username.

You could also try Clark Brothers but again, I am not offering a particular recommendation.