Are all Model 99 forend screws the same? Is there a suitable substitute? I'm re-stocking my '56 Model 99F and noticed that the slot for the screwdriver was cut off center. This seems like such a simple part, and I always like to have spares for my simple parts.

Years ago I had a gunsmith cut the head off the forend screw of my 99E and weld a sling swivel stud onto it so that the forend "screw" also holds the sling. At the time it seemed like a bright idea, but now I wonder if it was a good thing to do. It does seem to bear the weight well. Any opinions on this?

Dave Sinko