[jake-cutter]

I just received a complete orginal M2 tripod with NO holes in the feet. There is less than 20% of the orginal finish left, also, there is no rust. The Pintle has been reparked. I was wondering if I should repark the entire tripod or leave it orginal? Let me know.

 

[Arisaka San]

Hey jake-cutter,

Well, from a collectible stand point....(I know 20% is pretty minimal, and inside I'd "think" about repark it too to match my rifle)
IMO, if it's an original USGI M2 pod that hasn't been Izzy'd (or anything else) in anyway and remains all original, I'd personally leave it alone.

I guess it just depends on whether you want it to persevere a little history or a nice display at home or on the range.

If you're looking to sell later on, i think it's worth more to collectors in it's original condition. But that may be just the little bit O' purist in me.

 

[warty]

well, I'm a purist too so...

 

[L999here]

Purist vs. collectability

well, I'm a purist too so...

Guys....the military ALWAYS paints stuff to keep it from rusting,esp. field gear. The M2 tripod was sent back to depot for paint or repair. If you can get a good can of military OD paint.....then paint the darn thing to keep it looking good and useable. Who's gonna tell if it was done in the field or at the depot???

 

[jake-cutter]

repaint?

I was considering repainting. If I want to return it to orginal, I just remove the paint. However, reparking looks better. Maybe I will look for one with holes in the feet for shooting and keep this one for display.