Winter project

[Ovambo]

I have never undertaken a restoration project but looking for something to keep ke busy this coming Wisconsin winter!!!!
I was looking at the IMA "untouched" Martini Henry's.....MkII , Mk IV , Gahendra at different price points
Any suggestions if my objective is to get it as complete as possible even if not necessarily to shooting condition
Thamks for any advice!

Information

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[Bluenoser]

I wanted a 577/450 Martini for range use and chose one of their uncleaned Mk IVs. They were the only ones that appeared to me to stand a chance of cleaning up to decent shape. I wouldn't consider the Gehandra or Francotte (spelling?) due to questionable safety.

I was very pleased with what I received. The wood and metal are solid and in good shape with expected dings in the wood and a little light pitting at the top rear of the receiver. The bore is very good if not approaching excellent, the action is tight and the gun was complete. The only condition issue was a loose barrel. There is not a lot of bearing surface between the receiver and the shoulder of the BBL and, apparently, the condition is not uncommon. I made a shim of appropriate thickness to tighten the BBL up and the gun is working flawlessly. I am still working up a BP load for it and having a ball.

It sure grabs the attention of the black rifle guys when I touch off a round.