Thanks for the very sound advice. I just want to make a shooter for the boys (already have a dozen or so .22s, but could always use another). I'm an engineer by trade, and I appreciate the comments on the temperature and how it affects grain structure & metallurgy. I think it was very minor fire, as none of even the thinnest parts, hammer, trigger, tang, or lever exhibit any discoloration whatsoever. I think the wood just got scorched, and it got a liberal dousing by a fire department.
If I wanted to polish a turd...what is an alternative to bluing? Black Oxide? This new cerema-paint?
