BSA Break barrel

[ronminch]

Hi, Can anyone familiar with older BSA models through any light on this gun, a friend has. The model number indicated is B4240, there some numbers on the underneath of the barrel close to the breach but cannot see them clearly. Gun is in working condition bluing has faded to that smooth rust finish, he is wondering if it is worth restoring? Any help would be appreciated.

Regards,

Ron

[Garvin]

Hi, Can anyone familiar with older BSA models through any light on this gun, a friend has. The model number indicated is B4240, there some numbers on the underneath of the barrel close to the breach but cannot see them clearly. Gun is in working condition bluing has faded to that smooth rust finish, he is wondering if it is worth restoring? Any help would be appreciated.

Regards,

Ron

It sounds like a pre-War Breakdown Pattern, made from 1932 to 1939 Ron. The model details would have been acid etched into the top of the cylinder originally but have since worn away. If the smooth rust finish you describe is just age 'patina' then it's probably wiser to leave it as is. Unless your friend is determined to bring it back close to its original blued factory finish. Most collectors take the view that it's only worth restoring older airguns if they are 'near death'; that is, heavily rust pitted and perhaps in need of mechanical attention too.

[Neil.]

Pics.
1
2
3