stock shield

[Aaron Beck]

So ive been repairing a vh stock which came with some cracks in the wrist. What started as a plan to make it simply usable has evolved into "doing it right". Why not. Acetone bath, epoxy repair, glass bed, staple, raise dents etc. Lots to learn and interesting. Listen to the experts when they advise restocking, its not just a sales pitch.
As I move on to sanding and refinishing I would like to fix the stock shield which is now quite proud of the wood due to past refinishing i would guess. I dont know how thick this metal is so I am left with 3 options,
1. leave it
2 file it flush and hope i dont punch through
3 remove it and re inlet

I would lean toward the last option but i dont know how to get it out. It is not yet loose and there is no raised edge to pry under. I thought i might drill out the brads and then try to lift it. Any suggestions appreciated.
any photos of one prior to install would also be useful.