The gun was most likely sent back to Parker Bros. for a set of replacement barrels (for whatever reason) of the appropriate grade/barrel steel. There were several options available in various steels, of which Titanic Steel, being the standard for Grade 3 fluid steel barrels, was the most expensive option. Most folks back then chose the less expensive but just as serviceable lower grade steels. A research letter may or may not address the situation. Pictures would certainly narrow down opinions on who the change was done by. The fit of the doll's head into the recess in the frame will be most telling. If it was factory work the fit would be precise.
.This is a factory fit.
.
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"I'm a Setter man.
Not because I think they're better than the other breeds,
but because I'm a romantic - stuck on tradition - and to me, a Setter just "belongs" in the grouse picture."
George King, "That's Ruff", 2010 - a timeless classic.
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