I intent to hire the services of a well qualified gunsmith to evaluate the gun and answer all these questions. If it deemed worthy of shooting, I would only shoot it with light type shot loads, like RST shot shells. I am not looking to shot it extensively, but on a special occasion, it would be a wonderful experience. I would love for the forum members to recommend me some of the gunsmiths, wood finishers, and damascus/twist barrel refinishers whom they have great experience with using their services. Personally, I have used the services of Kirk Merrington and Gunter Pfrommer in the past, both with great results. I am just curious to find out given the fact of its origin (French), age, and type of this gun. BillK