If, in fact, it is silver solder, it can be removed with a rosebud torch and hopefully the engraving wasn't compromised. It's going to require a nitre bluing which not every smith does. You could give Brad Bacheldor a call, as I know he does nitre bluing. All in all, getting the gun back to original shouldn't be too involved.

I think I would leave it alone...

Gives the gun a little character.

Get that thing off of there!!! In my opinion...

If it is just soldered on, it should come off with not too much trouble and without much effect to the original guard undernieth. The guard would at least have to be reblued after the corrective work is done.

Thanks all. My inclination is to remove it, but not to reblue the trigger guard. That would send me down the slippery restoration slope. Think this old guy is greying with dignity and like gentlemen of similar vintage, should get a little exercise but otherwise left pretty much alone.

John

Sorry, I am having trouble understanding what the soldering would accomplish? What was he protecting his middle finger from...I have shot some ruff guns, but never felt the desire to solder on metal to protect a finger from the trigger guard.

Mr. Galazan will sell you a rubber one if you wish:
http://www.csmcspecials.com/product_p/e0123.htm