Hi and welcome.
You have a good eye, I believe you are correct that the side plate and take down lever have been
re-numbered to make a matching piece. Font is different and larger; and the 7 seems to have been struck 3 times at least.
Check the inside of the side plate, it should also have 2 digits, either 40 or 41(the first two digits of the serial number or same +1). If not, then it is a definite renumber.
Post a picture of the inside if you can. A straight on picture of the front of the frame serial numbers is always a good picture to post too.
Yes, I'm afraid you bought a pistol that has been tampered with or "boosted"(to increase value).
If you paid more than $800 or so, you paid too much, IMO- and should try to return or at least get some adjustment.
|