Probably an engravers project,,just a guess on my part.

Is the 'R' above the serial number on the bottom part of the factory applied markings (Ranger)? It looks hand cut to me in the pic (but that's always tough to tell),,perhaps an engravers or gunsmiths mark if so.

The ducks look like they came from an Ithaca (McGraw) pattern. The dog looks familiar from Winchester or Ithaca. The checkering style follows a Winchester B carving to some extent.

Just some thoughts...