So, this thread is actually very interesting and I am glad so much information has been discussed in a reasonable and informed response from all involved. Especially since it is one of those areas that can lead to one of those discussions of ---
1. Facts, give me article, book etc., substansial fact areas before I believe what you are telling me ...
2. I see what I have and believe in what I have in front of me and / or have seen with my own eyes and it must be true because I am an informed and intelligent person ...
And after I have read all of the above, I am led to the conclusion that more than likely the magazine has been reblued, yet there is, as Bill stated, a possibility of a period or long ago mixing of parts from an armorer or arsenal, so that would explain why several instances of this has occured and turned up.
I am also of the opionion that since 1945, that many guns have gone through a few hands and yet that is 57 years ago. 57 years is a fairly long period of time to remember or have had something done to a gun I picked up even before it was picked up by a vet.
<img src="graemlins/beerchug.gif" border="0" alt="[cheers]" />