Got lucky last week, was in the process of buying a Low Wall 38-40 from a chap in NSW when I mentioned that I was just about to start on having a 25-20SS built using an existing 32-20 Low Wall and original 25-20SS barrel (needs re-lining), when he said "how would you like a mint condition one instead?" Said yes and got the details of the current owner. Apparently the rifle was bought in 1910 and fired a bit, but they broke the firing pin, so just put it away, until a few years ago when he acquired it. Has had a new (original) firing pin installed, my question is, I was going to mount an old Mosberg external adjustment scope on my re-build, do you think I should leave this one untouched or get the scope mounted? All comments will be appreciated, thanks.

How much to Aussie anti-gun laws enter into your decision?

There are also ways to mount a scope without drilling and tapping, and harming the collector value, although drilling and tapping in the right place and mounting a period scope, as a Lyman 5A or Winchester A5 or Stevens does not necessarily reduce the value that much, if at all. I guess it all boils down to, if you want to shoot it, or have it buried in a safe as a potential investment. I feel you are better off enjoying it while able, and put your money in a high yield CD. Not that those exist right now, at least here.

Thanks again,d.

Have a spare Shaver sight (mid-range), but was keeping it for a 40-65 Husqvarna Roller build, will go I think with building the old Winchester 25-20 bbl that needs re-lining, and drop the scope onto it and leave the  "mint" Low Wall alone, this will depend on how many empty cases I get from the original buyer, of the rifle if it is more than say 20, I don't believe I can call the rifle "mint". I would then consider that mounting a period scope on it to NOT be a dimunition of its value, and would do so, thus saving another "85 for something else. I am a recent convert/accolyte to the "BLACK" art an have to say am loving it, but so much to learn, fortunately all the black powder shooters I have encountered, whether they be muzzle or cartridge, are so  forthcoming with "knowledge" experience, it is quite humbling, I, at my advanced age look foward to a lot more learning, which this site is in the forefront of, thank you, d.

Myself I would not hesitate drilling and taping a 7.2 scope block spacing. What would be the difference if Winchester had done it or now yourself. There is a purpose for it and was commonly done on original rifles by several makers and it still is. Might have to find another scope to use I am not familiar with the one you mentioned and if it would work with the 7.2 spacing or possibly not.

That I fully understand but how many were sent back to have it done after the fact. This was a common practice back in the day when any firearm could be sent back for any additional requested work to be done. The only way to really tell is to spend the money to get it lettered by the Cody museum which would include any additional work. Very few originals are actually sold along with such a letter and as stated earlier does it really have that much affect on the re-selling price. Especially now when collectors are now dying off and their collections are being sold off. I personally don't see very many who now have an interest and pretty much like going back in the 60's when people would just walk by them at a gun show.

Bottom line is it is yours so do what you want to be able to take it and to shoot it and to enjoy it. A couple of properly spaced holes might actually help to sell it so the next guy can also take it out and to do the same. Without having to worry if he should or should not drill and tap those four holes that are now already there. Typical cost around here is $15.00 dollars a hole and some even charge more.