No steel plate. If I'm correct that forend had to be replaced when ejectors added (and Larry calls that into question and I'm not really sure), then I think mine are probably factory since the stocks are marked with the serial number. I can't answer your other questions but one would think the factory keep some type of records always. I have several letters that indicate later work perform by factory on guns I own. records may not be complete and that is why my letter for this gun doesn't mention ejectors or later stock. Ray
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