M1A1 Paratrooper. Real McCoy?

[HDSledge]

Thanks for all the input guys. I am truly blessed to be able to help preserve a bit of history. No way this will be sold during my lifetime. I paid so little for it I feel guilty. So guilty I already went back to see the family and forked over more cash. Couldn't sleep well if I didn't. Still feel a bit guilty though.

I don't want to take a chance on damaging the original stock so I ordered a repro stock to fire it with. Considering the expert opinions here I am now having second thoughts about firing the gun, ever.

Opinions needed for sure on this question: Should I ever fire this gun?

Kruffe, Beginner: I have a desiccant pack in there and the case edges aren't airtight. Will that be ok or still don't use it? How about a canvas case that can breathe?

shadycon. lboos: Thanks for the tip on the sling. It has been on backwards for a long time apparently.

Hey Detroit-1 how do I tell if that is a Winchester trigger group and what is the significance of that? What is the significance of a blued vs. parkerized trigger?

In at least one of the pics the trigger looks a bit darker than the surrounding parts but it may be a fluke of the flash. Only one pic seems to show a difference. Would it be obvious and how do I tell the difference? Color, wear, shine, etc?

Thanks guys!

ps. The stock is a bit dry. Would it be advisable to give it a rub with some of the original finish: linseed oil? (boiled, raw, or refined?) Or should I leave it alone?