Jeff:
As Rob points out, you dont need the chambers lengthened. There is a great deal of debate about whether or not lengthening weakens the barrels at likely the thinnest point in the "high pressure" zone, but you dont really need to. Lots of experimentation has been conducted - if you shoot loads in the pressure range the gun was designed for ( 8000-9200 psi or so ), even with 2-3/4" shells, you wont have a problem, pressure - wise, anyway, regardless of length. I dont know about patterning, personally, but most people say there is no difference.
The best thing to do, IMHO, is load readily available 2-1/2" shells, or roll your own.
As for value - the Field Grade Fluzie is the absolute most common American made boxlock. What you describe has value as a shooter, but if it is not graded, does not have ejectors or some special association with a famous person or event, all you have is a nice upland gun, to enjoy shooting.
Good Luck.
Regards
The Independent Order of Enthusiastic Ithaca Afficionadoes
GKT
( Acting ) Humble Scribe
Last edited by Greg Tag; 11/14/06 02:59 PM.
