Old Joe,
If there is a corner in hell for guys who altered an old gun, you will have plenty of company there. Me, for one. When I posted, I assumed you had a super nice heavy duck, but, $1000 is likely a pretty well used gun, in that model. It ain't the Mona Lisa, go ahead and do as you will with it. Like I said, wads have come a hell of a long way since the early days, too.
I opened a first year 20 gauge model 12 from beyond extra full to right in between IC and MOD, and never looked back. I might add the gun was in need of wood, and so rusty you had to wash your hands after handling it, when I got it. With a black Old English pad, plain, but, nice replacement wood, a jeweled bolt, lefty big button safety, and a re-blue, it looks and performs just fine.
Good luck.
Best,
Ted
