I am in the process of cleaning and conserving a CE44 Kar98k for a friend who just acquired it from a private collection. Upon first review, it appeared to be all numbers matching and may have an original sling (I was hoping someone cold confirm that since I know nothing about slings). The rifle has been sitting in rack for many years and the sides of the rack have worn away part of the finish on the stock (see photo).
All of the visible numbers matched. Once the rifle was dismantled, all of the numbers inside matched except for the number located on the inside of the front (small) wooden handguard. Everything shows "970" or "70" except this handguard which has "9445" stamped in it. Should this part be numbered "970" also?
How can I determine if the sling is original (I included a photo of the buckle)? Can anyone provide a recommendation to repair the damaged finish on the stock?
Thank you!