The gun in question is a Francotte 20E. There is no question the stock is original to the gun however the letter from Bob Beach on this gun which is in the records at Griffin and Howe indicates original stock dimensions were 1 1/2 X 2 3/4 X 14 1/4. In his listing, and on the phone he said the dimensions now were 1 1/2 X 2 1/4 X 14 1/4 and that he felt the change was merely a transcription error. No mention on the order or by the seller that it was cast on. I was fine with 2 1/4" of drop at heel so I would have been good if it were simply an error. However when I measure the stock it actually has 2" of drop, not 2 1/4 and is cast on. A layer of finish has been added to the stock (can easily see brush or rag streaks in the finish) and the wrist area is very dull probably caused by the bending process the gun has gone through and thus the reason for the added finish. I have agreed to pay for the shipping both ways to get out of this mess, but he flatly refuses saying he will return only $300 to help pay for the bending of the stock. As we all know bending a stock is tricky at best and might work, might not. The bend might stay, it might go back to the original cast on position. Or, it might crack! Not a gamble I'm willing to take. Gun is nice other than this issue and would make some lefty a very nice upland gun. Just not something I'm willing to deal with.
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