I think using the pad would be a mistake if the goal is to make the gun appear original. Aside from the cost of buying and professionally installing the pad, collectors will be unlikely to value the gun near the value of an original.
A correct set of wood for your gun should not be too difficult to find. Again, the mid 1950s stock has a differently shaped upper tang and the forend should have the shorter tip.
I haven't looked at prices on them lately but I'd guess them to be in the $300-400 range.
Last edited by Levers; 07/26/23.
