"Lanc: What is the purpose of that blob of wood on the forestock?"

I believe you meaning this one?

this is realy strange! the only explanation I have is this was made for reason - maybe for laying the rifle on a special place on a dog sledge or similar. if it fits ecaxly the "blob" and the stock on the other end probably hold the rifle in place so it can't move back and forth but can be easy taken when in need on a sledge patrol.

the only idea I have