5madfarmers, if I wanted smart alec comments, I would have asked for them.  By the way, the comment about the stocking of rifles and carbines in the Springfield Research Service book, Vol. 1 was a note written by Mr. Mallory himself.  I don't know if you are a published author with credentials, like Mr. Mallory or Mr. Hosmer.  If you are, I apologize.  But it upsets me when I am looking for honest opinions about a potentially valuable carbine I have (and I do appreciate the added information you gave me), not contrite and condescending remarks.  I am 47 years old, not some pimple faced kid!