Mismatched numbered WW2 Ithaca trench gun

I have a mismatched number ww2 Ithaca m37, barrel and receiver were both shipped in the trench configuration. The gun is in general rough condition, blueing is in bad shape on the receiver and at some point the barrel was threaded for an a&w shot diverter, the stock and fore end are oil soaked. From what I have read, with mismatched numbers it has very little collector value. So my question is, should I replace the wood with fresh, reblue, and restore back to original, or leave it as is? All input and information would be appreciated. Thanks

I would carefully try to restore it to an original look even though you can't make it original... I'd hand polish it with paper which wouldn't be bad... Don't know about the muzzle but you're going to need a barrel shroud, they make them. The wood is normal field grade wood and it can be had. It would make a very attractive representation of a very scarce trench gun. I'd do it in a heartbeat...

http://www.partsforantiqueguns.com/i...t_attachme.htm

Over all I don’t think it will be that bad, the metal is in pretty good shape. I found some new wood for it, went to the website that you linked and purchased the heat shield. I had the headspace checked on it today, surprisingly it is within spec for a combat gun, he told me there was some chamber erosion but wasn’t enough to worry about. I have some junk shotgun barrels laying around that I can cut, tap and turn down for the threads on the muzzle. I think you’ve talked me into a good project. Thanks for the link on the heat shield.

Regarding mismatched Model 37s, in 1960 Ithaca issued a notice about the danger of mismatched guns. It stated that around 1948 the company received several military surplus mismatched guns and there were problems with the barrels properly fitting the receiver. With some handy work they were able to make them fit and properly headspace. So one does need to be concerned about this issue. It's a good thing that Jimmyp08 had his gun checked out.

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Originally Posted by Tom Doniphon

problems with the barrels properly fitting the receiver.

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Yes, I've had several and the barrels don't really interchange. If you get one that does, it's just luck. They need to be fitted a bit at the barrel shank...

It should be fine overall though.

I had read in Bruce Canfields book that after the war Ithaca had some mismatched guns that had headspace issues. This gun has a fully threaded barrel, I believe it was just luck that the headspace was correct. One of the previous owners, I was told shot it pretty regular, I figured it wouldn't hurt anything to have it checked out, and if there happens to be a future owner, I have documentation that it is safe and good working condition.

I'm looking forward to the final product...after...