Thank you for all your comments. I think I will defer to the capable hands of my gunsmith, who I just spoke to, and is familiar with the top lever issue. The gun in question is a 3E 12 ga.circa 1905,with straight hand grip and 30" nitro steel F&F barrels with ivory front and middle beads. Modern stock dimensions with a very aged Silvers pad which I assume is original.Traces of CC on the action but the barrel blue and stock finish and pad are quite worn
and I have decided a sympathetic restoration is in order.Was wondering if the two ivory beads were standard,a factory option, or after market? Should be a nice piece when done.


Better to keep your mouth shut and be thought stupid,than open it and confirm.