Once again, the pics of my two potential donor guns. Please don't be shy. If you have anything to say, please do so. I am not easily offended and welcome all comments....on the pictures, the plans, or the sensibilities of pursuing this effort.

Here is gun #2---the AYA gun:

Note here, the top lever on this gun is slightly right of center with the action closed and locked. I took this as a good sign. The action seems tight at this point and in fact takes a little too much effort to pivot the top lever (in my humble opinion..).

We see here that this is indeed a 12 bore gun. I have owned this one for only a few years. I intended to use this gun for a project build---that is why I bought it. Oh, also because I got it for a very good price!!

So, here is where we are: AYA gun; 12 bore (appropriate for a .470 or .500 build according to Ellis' book); action tight and on face; there is no noticeable movement anywhere when locked up with the forearm removed; I attempted to close the action with a .001 thick piece of brass shim stock in the breech--no go without truly "forcing" the action; This gun is not the apparent quality of the Simson gun...I base this on my observations only (no engraving, no cocking indicators, low cost stock wood).-------On the positive side, this gun has not been used much if at all; action retains almost 100% case color; there is no serious metal wear anywhere although there is some light surface rust and the usual marks from gun safe or cabinet; gun has bushed strikers; no repairs of any kind are visible; 100% functional; all matching serial numbers.

So, again I have to ask...what is the future hold for this gun?? Would you consider this gun as a possible donor for the .470 or .500 build??? If not, what are your concerns??? I am open to any suggestions----Please hold forth. All ideas welcomed!!!

If you need to see anything more on either gun, I can take more pictures!!

Howard