Raimey,
Bingo! Last night I moved the tip lever to the left and it moved as you suggested. I felt like Indy Jones finding the secret door. It is very well fitted, but it moved smoothly with some stiffness...almost like a new gun. Needless to say, I am thrilled and grateful for your assistance.. Tonight I'm going to carefully complete the takedown and search for proofmarks. Mr. von Nordheim of the museum in Zella-Mehlis told me that the Schindler firm was passed down from Christian Ludwig (founded in 1769 at Zella-Saint Blassi) all the way to his great grandsons. Mine is marked in gold on the rib Zella-Gotha along with the name C.L. Schindler Sohn. Thanks again and I'll let you know about the proof marks and try to post some decent photos. I'm really tempted to try some RST's in this thing.
Best regards,
Jorge
