Gunsmith special here. I took this on intending to restore the fore-end at the barrel band (see photos), but haven't been able to find the time. Haven't shot it, but mechanically it seems pretty flawless.
Happy to send more photos/closeups on what needs to be done to get the fore-end looking pretty.
Is the stock split above the barrel band pic or is it camera angle?
There is a crack/split above the barrel band, but I'm not sure if it goes all the way through. I haven't tried taking the barrel band off--this is as it came off the rack at the LGS.
If the firearm is manufactured before 1970 ( in 1970 tomorrow) it is C&R, which states 50 years old, plus other reasons posted above in the link.
From ATF
What firearms are considered to be curio and relic firearms? Curio and relic (C&R) firearms are defined as firearms which are of special interest to collectors because they possess some qualities not ordinarily associated with firearms intended for sporting use or as offensive or defensive weapons.
To be recognized as a curio or relic, firearms must fall within one of the following categories:
Firearms manufactured at least 50 years prior the current date, but not including replicas thereof;
Macon Gunstocks makes blanks for these. They have several different patterns. I picked the pattern with a flat end and cheek piece. Mine has a 1/2" recoil which makes a huge difference compared to the steel plate.
