It is a very good shooter, is capable of just over 1" at 100yds with a five shot group from a rest. For a rifle this age, I find that surprising. Action has been bedded and barrel free floated, the loading had been given to me by previous owner. For a military trigger it breaks well. Beneath the front mount was a serial number (still trying to remove solder with wick to get a better look). There is a 3 letter code, but does not match the scope (blc) - looks like byf, but could be wrong. Does seem to be made from different makers' parts.
I am putting on a period scope, a nice Pecar from just after the war and I will machine the new bases to line up with the existing screw holes - not sure of thread, but I will make some up on my lathe. I am an engineer by trade and I will not be attacking it with pry bars! My machine shop is extensive - I make model steam engines for a hobby.
I plan to recoup quite a bit of the cost of the rifle with the sale of the scope and mounts. The main reason I asked about the rifle was because I did not want to damage any history. With it being a made up piece, I am now happy to split it back into the component parts.
Many thanks for all the help.
One final thing, anyone know anything about Frenchicon sniper scopes?