You are correct, Larry. It is not present on the early guns, and does really appear to be an "afterthought" or, "well, if you insist, we'll put one on." They often have varnish or crud underneath them, and don't work at all. The small button is only sufficient if the safety is working flawlessly. Milton's No.5, bottom of the three in the pic, has had a few alterations (which he is addressing). A sharp observer will note the soldered on extension to the safety.
Truth be told, and I guess I'm a little reluctant to openly admit this- I treat mine like a pigeon gun, relying on the safety between my ears, and the decocking feature. I have been taught, and think it's a good practice even hunting alone, to slip the safety off on the mount. Not possible with many of the Ideals, and those of us who love them adapt, preferring to view it as a mole on a supermodel.
