We don't want to chop anything up. We don't even want to effect the integrity of the gun itself. We simply want something to use for everyday shooting so we won't put further wear and possible damage to original stock.
It's not a matter of ruining it's history.....rather preserving it by protecting the original stock. We didn't buy the gun for collecting, but because the great price gave us the opportunity to own another fun piece to enjoy. There's nothing wrong with collecting to collect, it's just not the reason for our purchase.
However, we respect that it's a part of history and don't wish to alter anything that is original to it. The only thing we'll be doing to it's original parts are cleaning them up and working on the stock finish to limit flaking and replace a good protective coating to the wood.
I would, however, appreciate any helpful responses to my question.