I understand what you mean about "used". Some of them are basket cases. There's nothing really wrong with finish (cosmetic) wear though, as long as the gun has been well cared for and not used up. Just depends on what you want. I bought one of mine in fine mechanical condition - perfect bores, tight on face, perfect metal with no pits anywhere, wood solid with no cracks or deep gouges, nice engraving as crisp as new - but in need of a gentle refinish. It still looks nice enough, but the blacking on the barrels and furniture is worn through in places and the wood would look better with a refinish. Since I intended to use it hard and didn't want to worry about the finish, I've left it that way and just used it. After 15 years, I couldn't be happier with it. There's nothing wrong with a high quality refinish, but don't let a glossy redo fool you into thinking that a gun is better than it is.

Sounds like you've got the idea. Not all British double rifles are the same, and you'll find some that you'll like the looks and feel of better than others. The more you handle, the more educated your decision will be.
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