Peter,
WOW! You are definitely a statesman! I read your statement several times, and I was moved to tears! LOL!
You articulated the point on leaving it as is, so well, I believe I am going to keep it as a DP rifle. As recommended, I am going to look into the Indian markings, and refinish accordingly. You are correct on the "marking" of the rifle. I have not seen a DP rifle so well marked. Hence I believe that I would regret altering it.
As you can appreciate, this will take some time to complete (rifle refinishing isn't my full time job)! I am also going to take some careful photo's before I do much with the rifle. As they say, "a picture is worth a thousand words".
I do have an Indian Bayonet inbound as we speak. What sold me on it, was that it also is marked "DP".


I assume (but can be corrected) that this also stands for Drill Purposes. It is also from 1944 (not 1959). However, it is a start to getting the "kit" put together.
As for the sling, I am looking at a post war Brit sling until I can find something Indian marked. Any pointers in what an Indian sling would be marked with, would be appreciated. I am keen on getting the colors and fittings correct.

The easy thing for me to do, is clean up the wood. I am questioning the finish, since as was pointed it, this appears to be rather shiny. Would a "DP" rifle be shiny, or closer to what an actual rifle would look!

I am also looking at what type of paint to apply. I know that many people have been using "gunkote" or such finishes with good success.

As I mentioned before, this Forum has taught me much. I only hope that I can reciprocate as I restore this rifle to is proper glory!