BC Miroku rib advice
Gentlemen: Need some advice on a 20 ga. BC Miroku Kodensha O/U from the late 60's (think Charles Daly Superior grade) in better than 95% condition except for what appears to be a beginning rib separation at the muzzle. The rib does not visibly move when squeezed down, and displays no other movement. Just a .005 gap visible at the keel and extending back towards the breech on the left side for about an inch or two.
I shot a round of clays with it this weekend and first noticed the gap about half way through the round, but the gun shot fine, no buzzing, wiggling or any other signs of dysfunction and the gap did not visibly progress during the rest of the round.
My questions for the mechanically astute members here are: 1. Is a full rib relay the only way to properly correct the condition, or is it possible to thermally mask off the rest of the rib and barrels and just do a "spot" repair? 2. Is a complete barrel reblue going to be necessary in either of the previous scenarios? 3. Any idea of a ballpark cost for any of the above?, and 4. Can I just keep shooting the gun occasionally and keep an eye on the separation? My sense is that a full re-lay and re-blue would cost more than $500, which is more than I have in the gun. I only shoot it infrequently, much preferring side by sides. Thinking about saving it for a granddaughter, however. All thoughts appreciated.
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