Gary: I personally agree with you wholeheartedly re: the best use of the bareled action. I just thought it might be salvageable to some military collectors, looking for an affordable NM alternative, to a pristine example. I however believe it does have more than a moderate value premium, even being an altered NM. Just my opinion, nonetheless it's not going anywhere for the price of "any other barreled action" I believe collecting pickiness is one thing, reality is entirely another matter and you cannot tell me one can go ANYWHERE, I HAVE BEEN IN THE U.S. [and I buy all over the country] and buy a DT'ed 1925 NM action with the original [I believe] Star Gauge Barrel for the same as an average 1903. Albeit it missing the trigger, floorplate and sights. If so let me know, I will direct all the people trying to get this one for that price, to them.
