Cool story KWK.
the soldering of a ball bearing to copper tubing is an even better solution than JB weld to a bolt.
Do you have a picture of your Uncle Mikes pellet pouch(es) to share?
What were the blue rings and why were they tacky in your opinion?
I originally bought a Blue Ribbon SS-2L (4x21) and mounted on my first R1 (H B) in 1997. I later sold the scope complete in its box around 2003, because I didn’t really care about it and they were bringing large sums of money on the internet auction site.
I have a Blue Ribbon 66r on another R1 (S R), currently, and like it well enough that it will stay.
I ‘shopped’ for my Beeman accessories, airguns, pellets at a local Gentleman’s business who operated out of his house. He is older now, and retired from his home business, but I was able to purchase some more NOS Beeman stuff From him just a few short weeks ago. I felt really lucky to do so. Good times
edit: I would like to have a spare muzzle break. Wish I had an original trigger shoe as well