It only has one bead around the bolsters

Which would be correct for a 28g.

what I was alluding to was the correctness of that detail, where so many upgrades, and 'replicas' have two and three beads. Pachmayr is one I recall.

ok. I got it.

Yes, this upgrade is done VERY well. When I was looking at it I could not see any of the other obvious telltale signs of upgrades and I did not notice the forend tip until I had it in my hands for several minutes.

I do not specifically recall details like water table grade stampings though.

Even the engraving style looked 100% correct for the period.

The forend tip was a bit of a head scratcher. Why not use the correct tip? If it was not for that, it would pass for original.

I like this gun a lot. Were it not for the short barrels which I do not care for it is one that I could proudly own and would prefer over a 70K gun. I would however opt for a really nice original VH over the upgrade. Given the fine quality of the work and the sellers historical data I am surprised the price is not higher. Of course the gun could have mechanical and or barrel issues that I am unaware of. Nice gun IMO, good luck with it Charlie if you go for it.

To all of you who gave me valuable input. I decided to pass on this purchase. Thanks to all of you. Regards, Charlie

I have put together a vh-28 with 24” bbls. It shoots really nice.

To me it's a toss up. 72 grand? Should I get a brand new loaded pick-up or a Parker? It's one of those tough choices in life....

I'm pretty sure I looked at this gun at the Southern. It was incredibly well balanced for such short barrels. I thought long and hard about it. Upgrade or not, it would be a pleasure to carry, shoot...and look at.

Ron,
I would ask myself what will be the resale value of each be in say five years.;)