I just removed the stock and was pleased to see that the serial number matched.
Along with the serial, 'P.B.' and a '0' (zero) are stamped in the wood. Is 'P.B.' marked on all stocks, or does it signify repair or rework of some sort? TPS had nothing on these marks. There is a 1/4" hairline crack that will be stabilized with Acraglas, otherwise, the wood is great! Thank goodness for no rust, unlike my previous NH. Lotsa dirt, seeds, twigs and an insect, though. Even though the plant matter and bug were miniscule, I wonder how they got in there