Matt

Nothing is forever.

The thing you have to keep in mind, for better or for worse, is that
even if you don't letter it, someone else, years down the road, may
get a letter.

It may be that the records don't say what the barrel length was,
and in that case, this is all moot. On the other hand, that information
may be there. I would suggest you wait until you can get a letter.
Then, you will know where you stand vis-a-vis the barrel length.

At this point, I would think that it is not the original barrel,
just because of its lack of patent date roll-markings on the side. I'd
still be inclined to get the letter first. If the gun is not original,
and needs a lot of work, I would think you should give that some
serious thought. With enough patience, you will come across another
triplelock that is original.

Later, Mike Priwer