Thread: Parker Hale Restoration - Need advice

I've been lucky enough to get a hand me down 303 Parker Hale Long Branch 1944 and im keen to restore it to the best I can. Barrel condition is good, wood needs some attention, and a Bentley scope (whats that you young fullas say including myself?) at 30 years old has reached the end of its life this roar with condensation on the inside.

Sanded down and awaiting tru oil:



So far I've sanded it down, applied 4 layers of Tru Oil and its come out mint!





Then I've struck a few problems which I'd appreciate any feedback you have.

1- Went to put the new scope on it today and discovered the old iron sights get in the way of any scope including the previous which i didn't notice and they don't sit flush with the rings. I imagine this wouldn't allow the rifle to keep its accuracy over shots. Should I hack saw the top sight in the picture and file it down? This particular rifle really wasn't designed to hold scopes.





2- The old sling stud holes don't work any more. Do I put a dowel rod/tooth picks in there with wood glue and sand flush and re-drill holes? I've read this on the internet but im unsure they will hold? Or should I fill with wood filler and then re-drill 2 new holes?

3- Got a Limb Saver recoil pad as this old girl packs a bit of a punch. Of course it doesn't fit, and the instructions are to grind it to size but looking at the butt end of my rifle how concave it is it's going to be tricky I imagine. Any suggestions here?