Seach continues, Ohio S&W revolver gunsmith...

[redleg155]

Hi friends,
 
Started a thread a while ago http://www.gboreloaded.com/forums/index.php?topic=225582.0
 
Mr. Gary Ortiz is not accepting jobs at this time.  Seems his health is of concern; keep him in your prayers.  He did recommend another 'smith, Bob Barthel, who apparently took over for his father and is located in N. Canton, OH.  I will be calling him as well but wondering if there is any feedback.
 
Still on the hunt for a good S&W revolver gunsmith for N-frame work in Ohio.  The project list includes:
 
Cut down barrel, basic action tune / timing, refinish for a 1917 .45 ACP (it's markings were defaced probably by an armorer long ago, so no collector value issues with this one)
 
Rechamber 1954 Highway Patrolman to 45 Colt (I have a longer cylinder for the job).  (Gun has top strap drilled under the sight base and no original grips so collector value really not much issue here)
 
Rebarrel S&W 25-5 using a rebored 3.5" m27 barrel, again 45 Colt.  Might not need refinishing! 
 
Obviously not IPSC work - but looking for competence.
 
Really looking for an Ohio, or close to Ohio 'smith who can tackle these.  Really don't want to pay today's cost of shipping, therefore looking for a local 'smith.
 
Cost is of some consideration, but not the most important.  A job done right is most important.
 
Thanks - redleg

[Nobade]

Compared to the cost of the work you want done, shipping is insignificant. Really, what is $50 when you're talking more than $1000 worth of work, and you want it done right when it's finished?

[redleg155]

I appreciate your input Nobade.  There are other benefits to hand-delivery to a gunsmith, not the least of which is seeing some other work before making a final decision.  Shipping for a non-FFL holder is now pushing over $75 each way. 
 
I am well seasoned in the custom gun arena and the costs. 
 
Gunsmith recommendation...?  Still looking.
 
Thanks - redleg

[Graybeard]

GBO sponsor SSK Industries is in Ohio. I believe they can do all of the jobs you want done. Give JD a call and discuss it with him. They do a LOT more than most folks are aware of.

[Nobade]

Perhaps this will help? Not a lot here but some in Ohio besides Gander Mtn.

http://www.gunsmiths.com/listings.php

Good suggestion from GB also, I bet J.D. can fix you up.

[redleg155]

Graybeard - great thought!  Thank you!
 
For some reason, I hadn't thought of SSK.  I am very glad you did. 
 
Kind regards - redleg

[redleg155]

This S&W is in JD's hands now.  Hope to update within a month or two. 
 
Thanks again GB!