tau-delt,
Man this is fun. We've figured out the sideplate is okay, but now the hold-open is not original. I just checked it again (minus the spring - arghh!), and the only mark on the piece is the Eagle over 6 stamp you mentioned. Now I won't feel bad about replacing the broken hold-open spring. I'm really torn about having the pistol restored. Since my intent is for this pistol to remain in the family forever (I know, I know), I'd like to have it as nice as possible. I kind of feel like the later destruction of the original finish has already made this piece historically inaccurate. If I knew for sure that this pistol is in the same condition it was in when it was brought back, I'd leave it as is. I think the evidence is starting to show a few post-war modifications though. Opinions and suggestions welcome!
Regards,
Sapper
|