Pics would be priceless, but yes, there were spreaders of various descriptions used. I saw a 10 Ga double that had been done by a blacksmith for use at a mine site. The muzzle had been flattened and would spread the shot to a desired width at 25 yds... I don't understand "Original wooden crate" though...unless you mean the case several shotguns would be shipped in? Are there Military markings? Flaming bombs? There aren't many shotguns that don't have them that were military issue...