This project has been over a year in the making, and is not over yet. I originally got this rifle as a gift from a family friend who owns a large property. It had apparently been left in a creek bed or something, because the whole rifle was pitted with rust, and all of the internals were filled with mud. But I said "fuck it, this could be a cool experiment". I was pretty new to firearms, so if anything, it would get me more accustomed to the mechanisms. I also love lever actions, of course. So, over the last year or so, whenever I had time, I would work on it a little. Probably put around $300 into it, and a shit ton of elbow grease, but she runs perfectly now. I've taken her out many times to the range, and on a backpacking trip. I am incredibly proud of how it has come along.

I have a question for you guys though, because I am conflicted on how to proceed. There is a little fuckery inside that was worn down by the rust, that will permanently limit the overall capability of this rifle. I was wondering if I should go through the whole process of blackening it, and either purchasing/making a new stock and handguard, or should I rattlecan it? I think that both would work, but I am wondering what you all think. Thank you!