Thanks guys for your input. When you say "VSO" I assume you mean a veterans organization??? Would there be any other reason for the black paint? I purchased it about a year ago from a local gun shop. The bore was dirty but I don't think it looked like it had fouled from black powder. It had also been sporterized (stock was cut). It appeared to have been done quite some time ago. Can anyone explain a little better about what Ferris was talking about when he mentioned black paint in his book?
God I wish I had one of these rifles years ago!!!