From looking at other Ross King rifles I would say the rifle in the link is by another maker. Far, far lower quality than the rifles that Petrov posted pictures of that he attributed to King.
http://www.doublegunshop.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=333550
Is the metal reinforced tang a known feature of any maker?
I saw a rifle at Tulsa marked King on the tag. When I asked why they thought it was King he said it had a King front sight...
I know about as much about the rifle in question as the rest of you. However, I have dealt with the seller on a couple of occasions and found him to be outgoing and straight forward. If I was interested, I would simply PM him and I'm sure he would be glad to explain his logic and reasoning as to why it is a "King". I picked up one of my purchases at his house, gave me an excuse for a weekend in Taos, and he gave me the grand tour of a chunk of his collection. Super nice fella to deal with. That said, I do agree with Steve. Looks like way too crude for a period when King should have been at his peak. Question for those smarter than me, is that a Ross barrel band?
Thaine
Is the metal reinforced tang a known feature of any maker?
From the rough area on the left side and rear of that metal plate, I'd guess it is to repair/hide a missing chip of wood. A common place for chips from the inletting being too tight at the rear of the tang.
That's some of the least attractive checkering I've ever seen! It's even less professional than the rest of the build on that gun.
Here is another stock with a similarly repaired tang.
1903 stock For completeness, I'd like to mention that Siamese Mausers had reinforced tangs.
For completeness, I'd like to mention that Siamese Mausers had reinforced tangs.
Probably influence from the Japanese Arisakas. The Siamese Mausers were built in Japan.