Upon further investigation I do believe the cleaning rod channel to have been filled because in direct light on the bottom of the stock you can clearly see a discoloration in the wood that leaves a lighter colored outline of where a channel for the cleaning rod would have been. Not sure if this changes much of anything but while i was installing an original 2 piece 1887 sling I purchased for the rifle is when I noticed it clear as day. I also found the cleanest early 1895 marked bayonet I've ever seen for it as well. Pictures to come.