Thanks to all for the insight!
I am new to all of this. I did not intend to replace it or cover it up, but was wondering about maybe a skelaton butt plate around it for long term durability. I'll leave it as is.
I won't have time to take it out and shoot it for a while, but will report on how it feels at that time.
From what I have read about proof pressures and this shotgun, I should stick to loads under 9000 psi, as mine was tested at 600bar- if I recall accurately.
Thanks again!
Unfortunately, the notification system isn't notifying me of messages being posted. Hmmm