Thanks, Drew!
So the 1895 catalog does not introduce Nitro Steel, yes? I see that 1893 was the first production year for Pigeon guns, so I assumed the first introduction via catalog was 1895, based on the Huchins book.
Have you happened to review the 1895 catalog?
Also, the gun I examined had a snap on forend. It did seem to have less wear than the stock, and the barrels had very bright and shiny bores even after being in storage since 1976. I could see the barrels as replacements, especially if the 1895 Pigeon gun had a forend latch similar to other higher grade guns during this era.
I sure wish I could see the 1895 catalog.