Robert,
When it was first suggested that the gun may have been engraved in Japan I thought that highly unlikely, but upon more research I can see that aa a real possiblity. I am also interested in following the lead you suggestted as well. I think when I began this quest I wanted to beliweve this could have been factory produced. I have now determined in my mind that that is not the case. On closer inspection the latch on the forearm has clearly been replaced that is not of the vintage and design of the original.. The wood I believe is original to the gun as the stamped serial numbers on both the stock and forearm match the metal stamping on the frame and barrels. I was not offended by the off color comment as I try to see the positive in all that is offered. It did call into perspective the question why someone would make such an investment in what otherwise would be a most ordinary O/U. I certainly appreciate your assistance in helping to trace done some of the history of this piece.
THANKS
