Stupid Question

[browningautorifle]

There were 4 models (that I know of) that were based on No4 actions that had 'shortened / sporterised' wood work and were all manufactured by the original factories

Those don't have a black painted forestock... I doubt those would have found their way to a shop like this one, besides he said no top wood...

the EAL rifle

Would have been my only guess.

Here's an example of the black front but not the one I wanted.