CHE unusual markings
 

I'm negotiating to buy a 16 ga CHE from an individual and I ran across some things I'd like to clarify before I decide whether to buy the gun. On the watertable, it's marked with a "3" below the serial number. Shouldn't it be a "4"? It also has a beavertail forend instead of a splinter forend. It has 28" barrels and a "0" frame. It's been professionally restored but it's feels nice and I wouldn't mind owning it. I'd just like to know what I can about any unusual modifications before I make an offer.

Yes it should have a "4" stamped, not a 3. Also the stock and beavertail appear to be replacements. I don't have my serialization book with me or I would look it up.

If the number is 175047 it's not in the serial number book. The photos are very poor but it looks like D grade engraving to me.

Restored DHE.

It clearly has Grade 3 engraving, not Grade 4.





.

The gun has been restocked. Butt and forend. And not authentically. Make sure your offer takes that into account.

And it's a DHE not a CHE and if the barrels are correct

The gun has not been professionally restored. What are the rib markings and are the muzzles correct? With no records available, you are on your own to identify uncut barrels. Does it have a beavertail reinforcement at the bottom rib? It will not be an easy gun to resell.