this rifle has the very rare and highly desirable "stutter stamp" or yes, it is as messy as it appears. I don't believe it will negatively impact function. If you're interested in this rifle as anything other than a good looking rifle to use and enjoy, this is not the rifle you want. It is not a collector.
There are two screws in two holes where I would guess the rear sight once sat. I don't know much about these rifles. I do have bases for it. I do not have the rear sight.
Yes, it is a decelerator pad. It is squishy.
