Hello,
Recently picked up a Marlin 1881 which has holes drilled and filled with probably devcon on the receiver. I'm debating whether leaving them as is or having them filled and the receiver refinished with a rust blue.

Just wondering if you think it would be best to leave alone or to partially restore. I'd like to leave the barrel in original condition so I'm not sure....

The pictures of the receiver and rifle in question can be seen in the lever action forums here at accuratereloading.

Thanks for suggestions in advance. It's obviously not a cream puff, and I plan on using it once a couple other problems are addressed.

Just my opinion and I'm not any kind of an antique gun nut, but I think you'd be way better off spending your money elsewhere.

Gatogordo,
Thanks for the reply. I've kinda decided to leave the receiver with the original finish and not reblue, so now I'll have to figure out a way of plugging those holes as best as possible.

I know these Marlins are not on the highly collectable list, but I could have easily spent $1,200 or more on an 1873 or who knows what on an 1886, so I'll happily plunk down some extra $$ to at least get it functional again.

I'm not an antique nut either, but I'll feel much better paying to get this running again than picking up a Rossi at Mills Farm & Fleet!