Mark,

One of the most knowledgeable persons on the restoration of old firearms is a member called Kai'miloa at this forum. Do ask him for his opiinion on this - the forum is a British one but they happily take this man's advice on restoration projects and he is always eager to help.

If you would like to contact him personally, wend me an e-mail at guns@mehulkamdar.com and I shall pass it on to him.

Best wishes and congratulations on a fantastic gun!