"Bomb Crater" stake marks disappeared from my Inland a couple weeks ago.

[USGI]

I've hesitated to post this since I know it's a controversial subject, and not everyone here would agree about the 'honesty' of doing such a thing to a WWII rifle. I'd been debating what to do about some horrible stake marks on my Inland's rear sight and receiver for nearly six years. At the time I bought it, I was advised by member INLAND44 (on another board) to consider having the damaged area welded up. I recently paid a visit to the "J-B Weld Shop" and this is how it turned out. Someday it will be given to one of my grandsons. I'll explain that I repaired it, much the same as one would with dents on a stock, or a car fender. I know I may receive criticism on this, but have decided to take that risk. Comments? - Bob

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[DaveHH]

but I have to ask, Why? Those punchmarks are part of the process, most carbines have them.
This is the history of that carbine. Nice job anyway, looks good.

[browningautorifle]

Over time, those things will be overlooked and forgotten. It's yours and you can do whatever your conscience allows.

[CrossedCannons]

It doesn't look like JBW's "natural gray". What did you use to finish it?

[shadycon]

That is what I call a "NICE HONEST REPAIR".

[USGI]

It doesn't look like JBW's "natural gray". What did you use to finish it?

PM Sent

[USGI]

but I have to ask, Why? Those punchmarks are part of the process, most carbines have them.
This is the history of that carbine. Nice job anyway, looks good.

The "why" is very hard for me to explain - I've agonized over this for a long time. I felt that anything I tried would probably make it worse. But look closely at that first picture - the sight base and the receiver have basically been ruined by someone, and I don't think they were associated with the US Military. I know the feelings that most on this forum have toward these rifles, and I knew that posting about this would raise some doubt about my motives. Still, in case someone else could "feel better" over a bad purchase by doing an inexpensive repair, I wanted to pass along the idea for their benefit. Thanks for the nice comment. - Bob

[painter777]

I think it came out great. Sure looks nicer.
Won't fool anyone, since you can still see that the rear is staked.
A friend has one uglier than yours was to start with. He had pounded away with a chisel point trying to tighten down the Adj sight.
I'll pass this along to him. It would sure make his Bubba style staking look better.

Nice Job Bob,
Charlie

[JimF4M1s (Deceased)]

You are not trying to fool anyone as you are giving it to your grandson.
Not trying to gain more on a sale, and as Charlie mentions, it won't fool a collector.
We have seen guys here post pictures showing that they filled in holes drilled into a receiver for scope mounts.
It's not like putting on repo parts. Maybe call it a repair.
Bottom line it is yours. Took some guts to post it not knowing the reaction you would get.
I think it came out nice also. And the best part is, you are happy with it.

Jim

[Dave-In-Maine]

Looks awesome from here!!