And there lies the nub of it.
Spend the dosh & have a shootable rifle in orginal cal./cartridge or put in the cupboard out of use and spend on a different project.

I'm inclined to think I'd like to have the rifle fully shootable. Particularly as the rest of the rifle is in excellent order.
I'm not about to sell it and remain unconvinced the rifle would be undesireable with a new barrel if it ever were to be sold.
If I proceed, it will be months until the job is done.