Mike, if it is the same picture in Houchins book, that gun was sent back for an extra set of barrels and matching for-end.
The first ejector for-end release was the clam shell, used on pre-1901 guns, then a very seldom seen one used in only 1901 was a 7/8" round metal escutcheon with two small wood screws and the roller release. Then came the banjo shaped one used until the mid 1930's, and then the rectangular one used till the end.
Also, for those that might not know, Hunter Arms Co. started putting the banjo release for-end on non ejector guns from Ideal Grade up starting around 1918-19. This came about because the for-ends of non ejector guns were being lost. From a period of 1912 to 1918-19 non ejector for-ends were held on with the Curtis release, a push button release similar to the Anson style.
It was said this was a patent infrigement and so was discontinued when in my opinion, was a major cost factor to make.
Clam shell release
Release used in 1901
Forgot to mention that the last release was used on the second style of ejectors that had just come out. For-ends from now will have the June 1901 date on them.
