Vern Brinkerhoff Lincoln, CA 916-408-0663 specializes in repair of trunk style cases but might be able to help you out.

You might check with one of these gentlemen for gunsmithing:
Mitch Schultz Ct. 203-254-0436
Andy's Custom Shop in New York http://www.andyscustomshop.net/
Abe Chaber 40 Fairmount, Danbury, Ct. 203-748-1830

And re: "I am not famous for my patience..."
You'll need to be. Master smiths move in another dimension of space and time but the wait will be worth it.

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