I think the general consensus is clear; go buy this rifle and don't look back. If they're asking $1,600, you could offer $1,500; but I sure wouldn't let a hundred bucks stand in my way. Your only regret with this rifle might be later in life when you look back and wish you had bought it. Go get it, and post pictures here as a follow-up.
It should go without saying, but if you buy the rifle and later on decide that you no longer want it, clearly there is a pre-64 fan club here who would take it off your hands.
It should go without saying, but if you buy the rifle and later on decide that you no longer want it, clearly there is a pre-64 fan club here who would take it off your hands.