Bob,

As promised, here are two photos of the end result. The process that I dreamed up worked slick as can be. I've ended up with 5 bottom ribs, in 5 different widths from 3/8" on up to 5/8". The parent stock is still in great shape so I'm going to oil it well and put it away in a safe place. I doubt that I have more than 5 more double rifle projects left in these old bones but, "quien sabe?".

Best,
Ron.