I recently went to York PA to visit the inlaws. While there I made it to a gunshow with the intent on picking up some reloading supplies, looking at some full auto stuff and generally just spending a day with like minded folks.

Until I found this sitting on a table looking like it wanted someone to take it home:

Have any of you learned gents ever seen a Whitworth with a short forend like this or did someone bob it at some point in the past? The checkering looks like it "belongs" on the forend but I'm confused.
The express sight apparently disappeared before the dealer I bought it from obtained the rifle.

So far I've only shot it on paper at 50 yards but it will keep three rounds in a group you can cover with your thumb. I believe I like this little rifle.

And finally, does anyone know what the button on the front of the Redfield sight does?

Thanks for looking guys.