K98k stock repair?

[Blight]

Hey everyone. I tried posting this on K98 forum, but oddly couldn't get any answers. I've always noticed the folks here at Luger forum to be very helpful, so here I am!

I have a mismatched shooter K98k (appears to be parts from maybe two rifles); the stock is a red glue laminate type, Norwegian capture I think (matching butt plate has the crossed out number, dowel repair just under the bolt handle). It shoots great, but I just noticed a crack behind the trigger guard to up around the grip.

Upon close inspection, the crack seems to start at the dowel on the side opposite the bolt handle. The "lifted" flaky part can be felt(isn't entirely flush), but doesn't seem to move when pressed. My questions are these:

1. can this be repaired (without refinishing the whole thing? If so, can I do it or does it need professional help?

2. is it safe to keep shooting?

3. what causes a crack like this?

I checked for Recoil lug "setback" and it appears fine. Nor does the lug seem deformed (it is easily removable).

Help?