FAQ's
Q. Will you work on any firearm?
A. NO, Typically if we cannot source parts for the model of firearm you have we will not take the firearm in for service. Keep in mind that if you do not know what model you have we do not know as well and will refrain from working on it. The firearms we take in are on a case by case basis and it is best to email us ahead of time to find out. Note: We do not work on air rifles, muzzle loaders, antique exposed hammer guns, Damascus barrel guns and any firearms deemed unsafe or illegal.
Q. I have never shipped a firearm for repair or restoration. How do I do that?
A. We recommend you package the firearm yourself. You know how fragile a firearm can be. There is no such thing as over packaging when shipping a firearm. Make sure that all components are well protected from each other and if you are not shipping in a case, double boxed in heavy cardboard. Include in the package a detailed letter or download our repair form, describing the work you wish quoted or the exact mechanical problem you are experiencing. Make sure your contact information with a daytime telephone number and return shipping information is present in the letter as well. We will contact you once we have had a chance to look over your firearm. When shipping a firearm, always insure against worst case scenario so, insure for the entire replacement cost. We accept firearms from any of the major shipping agents, UPS, Fed-Ex, US Mail, DHL etc. Firearms are returned using UPS exclusively.
Note: Firearms being sent for service can be sent by an individual, they do not require transfer through an FFL licensee.
Q. Does my firearm need to be shipped through an FFL holder?
A. Due to recent policy changes made by most common carriers, handguns need to be shipped through an FFL and returned to the same FFL. Long guns may still be shipped through USPS directly to Midwest Gun Works without using an FFL holder for a transfer. It is best to contact your local shipping facility to verify if they will be able to accept your shipment. In all cases, the firearm must be returned to the same person/entity that sent the firearm to Midwest Gun Works. NO EXCEPTIONS.
Q. My firearm needs a part that is no longer manufactured. Can you make this for me?
A. No, We do not make one off parts for any firearms.
Q. Can I just send in a portion of my firearm for you to work on.
A. Because we test fire most all firearms after repair we will need the entire firearm. Exceptions can be made for some services such as sight installs, Stuck choke tube etc. Please email us if you are uncertain.
Q. My tracking number shows my firearm was delivered and signed for. How long before I get a quote back.
A. Please allow 5 to 10 business days for the processing to take place before we can make contact about the repair.
Q. How much does it cost to have my firearm repaired or restored?
A. Of course every case is different. There is no way for us to quote a repair or restoration until it is in our hands. Each firearm is quoted on an individual basis. Mechanical repairs are based on an hourly basis and any parts required are above and beyond the cost of the labor. Restoration labor rates are based solely on the condition of the firearm.
Q. I sent my firearm in for repair but was told it was not reparable or I refused the quote. Do I still have to pay for the quote and return shipping?
A. Yes. A one hour estimate charge will be charged and normal return shipping charges apply.
Q. Is it possible for me to prep my firearm for refinishing and then send it to you?
A. We would prefer that you didn't. Metal and wood refinishing is a precise business and we prefer to handle all of the prep work here. Preserving the checkering and the fit of the wood and all of the various factory stampings and engravings on the metal is a critical part of the restoration process. Any damage that occurs to those areas, can result in extensive labor costs.
Q. I have several firearms that were involved in a flood/fire. Will you work with my insurance Company to resolve payment?
A. No, We do not get involved in insurance claims and all flood/fire damaged firearms are charged one hour labor per firearm up front before a quote will be given.
Q. How long does it take to perform a restoration or repair?
A. This varies depending on the workload. For a complete restoration, a good average is between eight and ten weeks. We strive for six to eight weeks on mechanical repairs but yet again, that is dependent upon how much work we have in the shop at that time.
Q. What is involved in a rebuild of an over and under or a side by side shotgun?
A. Simply put, it is a tightening of the action. The locking lug is refit to the barrel lugs. The forearm bracket is refit to the hinge area and some spring components may be replaced. The top lever is refit to the proper position which is angled slightly to the right.
Q. Do repairs such as barrel threading, General repair or restoration work effect the accuracy of my firearm?
A. No, MGW does not know the accuracy of the firearm beforehand. We are not held responsible for any accuracy issues the customer has after work has been completed.
Q. Will restoring my firearm hurt the value?
A. This question will be debated until the end of time. There really is not a clear cut answer. Our answer is no. We feel that if the restoration is done by quality craftsmen who understand and appreciate the firearm as a work of art as much as a tool, that it will not hurt the value of the firearm and in most cases can increase the value.
Q. Is it possible to "touch up" bluing?
A. In a word, no. In our experience, the only way to fix a bad spot in the bluing is to reblue the entire component. Your other options are at best temporary and generally not very pleasing to the eye.
Q. What is the difference between Salt Bluing and Rust Bluing?
A. The difference is extensive. Salt bluing is a conventional emersion bluing method in which bluing salts are used in a high temperature liquid solution to produce the blued finish. Rust bluing is a much more time intensive, low temperature process in which the bluing is "applied" to the metal. Rust or Belgian bluing as some refer to it, is only required on double guns that feature soft soldered barrels such as the Browning Superposed, the Winchester 101, 21 & 23, L.C. Smith, Perazzi, Krieghoff, and Beretta. Our bluing products are used exclusively by Midwest Gun Works and are not for sale to the general public.
Q. What type of finish do you use on wood?
A. We offer three different styles of finish - A high gloss polyurethane finish, a spray on polyurethane satin finish and a hand rubbed oil finish. Our refinishing products are not for sale to the general public and are exclusive to the Midwest Gun Works refinishing department.
Q. Does MGW warranty the labor you perform on my firearm.
A. While we do not have a written or stated warranty we do stand behind all of our work. MGW has a stellar reputation over that past 20 years for doing some of the finest gunsmithing work in the country.
Q. Deer season is this Friday and I need my work completed by then. Can you "Rush" the work?
A. No. We aim to try to please everyone. However our shop is run on a first come first serve basis.
Q. Can I speak with one of your gunsmiths.
A. No. Our gunsmith's time on the bench is crucial for delivering on time work. However we would be happy to relay a message.
Q. My shotgun does not pattern like I want and both my rifle and pistol are not very accurate.
A. Both Shotgun Pattern issues as well as rifle and pistol accuracy issues are best left to the manufactures of said firearms. While we do offer Barrel Crown services and action bedding services that may help. We do not guarantee accuracy nor do we test for the issues. There is far too much at play with ammunition, conditions, training etc. for MGW to address.
Q. I would like my shotgun rust blued. Is the entire firearm rust blued?
A. Rust blue complete firearm refers to bluing the Barrels using the rust blue method and the rest of the firearm is conventionally blued. Only the barrels will be rust blued.