Because it is there, I'd try to make the existing butt plate acceptable first, then, if that proved impossible, I'd change it.

Color anodizing should be available from some near by plating shop. In the late 1970s through mid 1980s we did substantial quantities in bronze for solar panel boxes. Other colors are available. It is a tough finish, but will fade with UV exposure. I suppose environmental regulation changes may have made it harder to obtain by now.

The right hand twist in "smokeless" Pope barrels started with his Krag barrels, so that the original sight windage adjustment procedures would be retained.