bigduke6,

Thanks for your input. I am a firm believer in always preserving as much of the original as possible. Consequently, I splice whenever I can. On this one, I intend to also splice out the hand guard. I know I really lucked out on this one - more than you might realize. Since it was cut immediately in front of the band, I have the forearm and handguard profiles ahead of the band. If memory serves me correctly (getting on in years and it does get a little fuzzy at times), the forearm and handguard profiles remain unchanged from the band to the cap. I will most likely have to do the job without a nosecap in hand, so that is important. I will probably leave just a little extra wood at the muzzle end.

I would be most appreciative if you would post photos of your spring retainer. What would work best for me is top view, side view and end view from each end - each with a tape measure or scale in the photo for sizing. I think I can forge and file one out without too much difficulty. The nosecap is another kettle of fish. I have a good drill press, plenty of files and time, and access to a lathe, and may end up giving it a try out of desperation, but hold little hope of success. Especially since I only have photos to go by. I would be most interested if repros became available.

By the way, did I mention I ultimately need 3 spring retainers, 3 nosecaps and 2 bands?

I also have an LEC1 that has been cut back behind the band and another LEC1 barreled action sans bolt that I would like to put right some day.