xausa - you're asking about 100 year old guns that were cared for differently. Some are gonna be in great condition and others will need a lot of repairs reguardless of design. All box locks are basicly the same - and from my experince the Remingtons and Ithacas the easiest to work on. Most American stocks have more drop in them than their European counterparts. Most American guns are heavier but still balance good which is nice if you're going to be shooting clays, not so for carrying all day in the field. If buying one for the first time you'll first have to handle it to see how it fits and feels. Then have a double gunsmith check it out for any repairs and parts. Will he have to bend the stock or add a recoil pad - can he get or make parts for the gun. I do a lot of my own work but know my limit and have Brad Bachelder do the items I can't. It's really up to you, not some math forumla [ no offence rocketman ]. Paul
