Re: Hello, a new guy here, new owner of old model 8....
Posted: Thu May 03, 2012 11:02 pm
Welcome to the humpback madness, it sounds like you are well on the way to being infected. But, will reserve diagnoses until viewing pictures of the "offending item". 
I'll start the ball rolling regarding some of your questions:
- Modern 35Rem ammo seems to be loaded pretty much the same as it always was, thus is is safe to use as your rifle is.
- There has been a lot of discussion recently regarding safety levers and butt plates, best to use "search" to find the discussion - that should get you some help and/or ideas. Plus, as other folks come along some may have some extra parts or at least know where to get them.
- Your serial number does indeed date the rifle to 1912. As to the other marks and symbols (F, K in circle, etc.) they are Assemblers or Fitters Marks used during production, although they stir a lot of interest initially for all of us, they have no real significance nor add any collector value to the rifle.
Did I mention we love pictures, particularly before and after pics.
I'll start the ball rolling regarding some of your questions:
- Modern 35Rem ammo seems to be loaded pretty much the same as it always was, thus is is safe to use as your rifle is.
- There has been a lot of discussion recently regarding safety levers and butt plates, best to use "search" to find the discussion - that should get you some help and/or ideas. Plus, as other folks come along some may have some extra parts or at least know where to get them.
- Your serial number does indeed date the rifle to 1912. As to the other marks and symbols (F, K in circle, etc.) they are Assemblers or Fitters Marks used during production, although they stir a lot of interest initially for all of us, they have no real significance nor add any collector value to the rifle.
Did I mention we love pictures, particularly before and after pics.