Hey Guys
A great big "Thank You" to my frined, imfuncity, for posting the pictures.
What can I say that hasn't already been said about these rare birds. There is something really neat about the FN's and I think it is the level of craftmanship that the people in Belgium brought to the table. The rifle just stands out.
This rifle is in by no means perfect. Unfortunately, the same auction company that I mentioned in the thread about the Police Model was involved in this sale also. They omitted many details about the imperfections and of course the sell was a "As Is-No Returns". I did not show some of the flaws in the wood, but I think I will leave it as is. There is one noticeable incorrect part and it is the safety lever. It is a replacement from a model 8 Remington. I have a solution for that problem. One of the nice things about having multiple rifles is that every once in a while you get one that offers opportunities and this is the case with another FN that I have.
I think many of us have been in the position that fits this example. I was so anxious to get the first FN that it did not bother me that it had some parts that were incorrect or missing. But, it was an original FN so I bought it. I am going to remove the safety lever from that rifle and place it on the one just purchased. I plan on doing the same thing with the butt plate.
The butt plate looks like a bunch of termites went through the edges of the piece. In talking with 81police, I was told this is not an unusual situation with some of the butt plates on the FN. He told me that many of these butt plates were made from horn and indeed an insect would get into the material and make the holes I described. Boy, you learn something every day.
The picture of the bottom tang shows three markings which I do not understand. If anyone can share the meaning of the marks, I would like to see your definition.
I hope you enjoy the pictures thanks to Mitch.
Regards,
jack1653