To harden a part or not

[Triggersmith]

I just replaced the tumbler and sear on my 1874 Sharps.  The old sear was getting a bit worn.  I had to reshape the pawl of the sear and polish it.  Would it be a good idea to harden the pawl when I finish, or isn't it necessary?
Thanks
Triggersmith

[St. George]

Hardening it will give it a longer life, and greater smoothness in action.

Vaya,

Scouts Out!

[Montana Slim]

If you believe the parts to be through-hardened already, then it is not necessary (providing you didn't overheat the parts while working them).

If the part is case-hardened, then you may have removed the case partially or completely.
If that is the "case" , I recommend re-casehardening.

Slim

[Virginia Gentleman]

You can use the product Kasenit to re-harden the parts, but the case colors will be gone and the part will be a gray color.  A very quick pass of the flame does put a bluish hue back on the part though and clear varish will make it look close to the case color finish.