New to this forum. I have just purchased an 1898 rifle that has a better than average bore and good, but worn metal. The stock is original but has a badly repaired crack that unfortunately goes right through the cartouche. There is also a small chunk of wood missing from under the side magazine. Would it help to have this stock repaired, or should I just get another one? I thought about getting a boyd's stock and setting the original aside for posterity, or in the case I should ever sell it.

Three things to consider: Budget, skill and time. I've resurrected many stocks however the cost of good colored epoxies, pin kits, custom tools and special finishes seem to make the best sense to me when spread across several projects - projects that take skill and time to get right. Satisfaction of a job well done ranks pretty high in my book otherwise I couldn't say it was a good investment. Your stock seems to have some merits and may bring a decent price from a collector well-versed in restoration. You could buy another 'parts gun' for the stock or there are some decent stocks up for sale now and then. If you are thinking Boyd's then the cartouches are not really critical - shop for the stocks without those for the best deal. Sell yours only after you test fit the replacement as it is best to have a comparison. Typically the difference in $$ between the two will be good trade for the $$ and time spend to fix the stock you had. I too have sent some projects on to other collectors...