Had been looking at 1894's in 44 mag for a while and yes, wood fit and finish was "off" and the bluing looked thin. In 2015 I handled one in a LGS that had very nicely finished wood that fit pretty good along with nice deep black bluing that was very even. Action was tight, but figured that would break in. I bought it. A couple hundred rounds later the action smoothed out nicely. I've added a aftermarket trigger and a Skinner rear sight. Many rounds later and I've not had a problem with it. Very accurate. Only problem I've had is it doesn't seem to care for 44 special cases. Runs 44 mag cases fine.