Beaver Tail

[Tim Schivley]

I am in the process of restoring my Grandfathers GH grade double 12 guage with a Beaver Tail forearm. I would like to validate the checkering on the forearm to be sure it is original. I am concerned on the patterning and area around the lock. Has anyone seen this pattern before?

[Dean Romig]

Tim, that checkering pattern and the sculpting of the wood around the latch does not appear to be the original "standard" pattern. Does the forend have the hole drilled longitudinally through it to facilitate the reinforcing rod or screw?
There are probably several regulars here who can post pictures of the correct checkering pattern for a GH beavertail.

[Tim Schivley]

I will check for the rod. Hope to hear from others.
Thanks, for the reply!

[Ed Blake]

I would say for sure those two smaller diamond patterns have been added and the border is incorrect. As Dean said, if there is no through-bolt in the forend, it's an aftermarket creation. Plus, there should be a border around the latch enletting. Post a picture of the forend "loop" on the underside of the barrels, then we can tell if the gun is even supposed to have a BT.

[Tim Schivley]

Thanks a million. I will need to go to the gunsmith to get more pictures.