For example, take this used- misused-and-abused Smith & Wesson Model 1917 revolver that certainly has seen better days before its obvious run in with a German armored column.
A gift from my father, I kept the pistol as is until I couldn't stand the eye sore any longer. I sent it to firearm miracle worker Andy Horvath of the Diagonal Road Gun Shop. In turn, Horvath did an action job, shortened the barrel and relocated the front sight, removed the lanyard loop, plugged the hole in the frame, refinished the pistol bright blue, and even made a fancy pair of burl walnut grips for it—thereby giving this—old military sidearm a much-needed makeover.