OK, I have the rifle in house. I have given it a once-twice-three times over.
I'm pleased, to say the least. What a beautiful, refined action - the machining and scalloping exhibit the type of old world craftsmanship that make me want to do a somersault, if I wouldn't throw out my back, of course. The overall appearance is a bit slinkier than my US Krag. The magazine door and magazine opening are a real delight.
I see now what you were saying about the minor differences making no drill sights a non starter. I'll have time to consider my options. However, the modified rear, as is, will be a little better than useless to me - the grinding not only destroyed the part, but ruined the sight picture.
The barrel is of heavy profile than I expected. The narrow bore (
) is bright, and the grooves look to be in good shape. We'll see how it looks after Wipe-Out and a good scrubbing.
The trigger guard screws. Ach. The front action screw looks original, and semi buggered. I can live with it. The front trigger guard screw, though... looks like a replacement. The contour doesn't fit the bottom of the action, and I fear that the threading may be unoriginal. We'll see when I get it apart.
The Bishop stock is interesting... not bad, really, decent lines, but overly thick in the forearm, and both steep and fat in the grip. These issues could be improved down the line. The magazine sideplate relief, though, is, ummm, adequate, but lacks any visible evidence of fitting. The lines are straight, but the wood stands proud from the metal. I suppose the stock was designed for the US Krag, and the narrower Norgie sideplate just isn't a good match. All that aside, the stock is adequate and certainly less offensive than a butchered military stock. It points to the left for me when shouldered.
After I get the rifle apart, inspected, cleaned, and greased, I will follow up. Thx for all your comments. I am a cautiously happy camper.