Maybe there should be a new category called "Silk Purses From Sows' Ears". This transformation would certainly qualify.

The only improvement I can think of is in the safety department: a nice Model 70 three position safety would make the rifle a real pleasure to use in addition to being a joy to behold.

When I bought my ZKK 602 back in the early 70's, it was with the prospect of a hunt for driven wild boar. I practiced and practiced with the safety, trying to overcome my natural inclination to push the lever forward to release it. When the time came and I was safely ensconced at my stand, I decided to go ahead and take the safety off, in case I got a sudden opportunity for a shot. After a while, two yearling pigs (Ueberlaeufer) ran across my front. I threw up my rifle, AND PUSHED THE SAFETY FORWARD. There's no teaching even a comparatively young dog new tricks.