Dennis, THANK YOU so much for such a great response. Very well said about how old shotguns or any firearms that are in a family are valuable keepsakes no matter the monetary value. You're absolutely correct! I, too, wish that you could have received some of those guns from your dad that you talked about, and I thank you for sharing those personal sentiments.
Here are a few pics.
I can't tell how much bluing is left, although it doesn't look like much to my untrained eye.
What is the "645" in the first well of the water table?
What about the "Kf" and "+" signs under each barrel on the barrel flats?
You can see that the checkering on the pistol grip is very worn. I'm not sure how the condition of the fore end would be rated.
And finally the stock. It looks like not only was the butt plate remove, but it was shortened. I'll measure it as you instructed. Thank you for the measurements I could expect to find. There's been a slip-on rubber sleeve and pad on the end of the stock since I was born, where the wood is lightest.
I'm going to have a gunsmith check the chokes, the slight pitting of the barrels, and determine if it is safe to fire. Thanks Dennis, too, for the tip regarding RSTshells.com. I would only fire it to simply say that I did, as may dad has, as my grandfather has, and as my great grandfather has.
Dennis, I laughed out loud when you commented about my asking value is like saying I have a '63 Dodge. True, and a classic newbie move. Thank you for being kind.
Anyway, any additional information would be greatly appreciated. Again, thank you Dennis for taking the time to welcome me and provide me with information that I value VERY much.
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