Yes, Bob nailed it.
I emailed the photos to the Winchester Collector's Assoc. president who said "The gun clearly appears to have been refinished.."
I also emailed Turnbull's and they told me that while the direction of the polishing is correct (vertical), their assessment is that since the lines are not parallel it's a refinish.
While looking at the barrel in sunlight today I see it's not turning plum but rather is a grayer blue than the receiver.
When I first handled the gun last night I immediately thought "refinish". But the owner who is a friend said it wasn't so I didn't pursue it, looking at the job at night I didn't see any rounded edges, no dished screw holes,etc. It looked that good.
The pictures showed up the polishing marks though and the truth comes out.
I am learning to trust first impressions...
Thank you gentlemen.
