I'm no collector, but I understand collector value is real. It is also subject to change, so I tend not to trust it too much, but it is real.
I care about what I call the intrinsic value. A nice condition proven rifle appeals to me more than the rare, but unproven, NIB. Collector's use different criteria.
I feel an obligation to respect the history of a rifle, so future enthusiasts will have examples to appreciate. They will get a lot more out of shooting a good example than they will looking at one they may not even be allowed to pick up.
I like the patina of honest wear, but I don't see anything wrong with tasteful "refreshing." As long as you are going for originality, as opposed to a high polish blue and "bowling ball" finish one the stock, you are still, IMO, respecting the history of the rifle.
Without seeing the OP's rifle, I don't know what I would do. And since it isn't my rifle, it doesn't matter. I'm glad the OP is trying for original.
That Justin McMillian fellow in another thread sure did do some pretty work!
