What a little gem!!!

Do with it exactly as you wish. It is a family jewel and you couldn't wreck it unless you have anunscrupulous smith start cutting and chopping. I agree with bronko though ... have that or another pad properly fitted.

If you want to refurbish it then do it right. Find a professional that understands that vintage weapon and treat it with the appropriate touches. I can't imagine that the gun, as is, is going to be worth more than if it is professionally refurbished. Besides, even if it is, that is a concern only if you plan on selling it. I would NEVER sell that gun. You can hunt the entire world with that little number.

Or you could do some investigating and find out about how to primp and preen it's stock and metal a bit. Even if you had a professional re-blue I doubt you'd be "ruining" it, as it is already showing way more than a little wear. Or just a little tender loving care with some stock care products and careful cleaning would be fine also.

You could also leave it completely alone. It won't shoot any better if you refurbish (except for the pad!)

No matter what you do with that rifle I am happy to have viewed it and jealous as all get out! What a find! And owned by your dad and your Gramps to boot. It doesn't get any better that that, IMHO.

Congrats man! I'd pay an awful lot of money for such a gun. I've seen some that were 1949-50 ish (same caliber) in perfect condition command over $4500.00 bucks.

Your's would get $1350.00 easy on the open market today, as is ... IMO ... and probably much more with just a little polish and preening ........ but I'm pretty sure you're not selling ... I wouldn't, EVER.