Again, I appreciate all of the responses. Seems like an interesting topic given the length of this thread. I had not considered a Poli but did like the photos and write up on them. However, it appears to be a bit over my planned cost as the only one I saw on the web was about $6K (with sideplates however). A Parker repro in Sporting configuration I suspect will be also pricey since they made only a few and I would think that they are now highly desirable both for collecting as well as shooting as I am interested in. Fabarm was also another gun I had not considered and it looks interesting, probably in my price range but I can’t seem to find anyone in the US that handles them - looks like a UK thing.
Which brings me back to the BSS vs RBL topic. Although I also own, like and shoot a BSS at skeet, I am not sure that making one over into a Sporting gun will allow me to recoup most of the money spent - whereas the RBL most likely will. I have no doubt that the 30" BSS noted earlier cost at least close to the asking price of $3K but the question of value is also something I consider when buying. I have modified a number of guns but unfortunately do not expect to recoup the modification costs - I only do it because it makes the gun better for me which I think was the motivation of Bob.
Given the positive comments about the RBL and the fact that it can be built very close to my specs at a price that I think I could also sell it for, it seems like the better deal. It is a valid question, about the longevity of the RBL vs the very robust BSS which is something I need to weigh - but I think I am slowly swinging over to the RBL side.
Thanks
Z
