When you say the browning is battered, what is actually wrong?
bit of pitting on the barrels, 2 heavy marks on the stock and a few small marks, i dont think the marks would iron out ether. the guns action is still tight, and theres no play, its my mates gun and i know hes had no problems with it, hes just used it well.
cheers
Is the pitting on the inside or outside of the barrels?
If i were you i wouldnt buy a gun that is pitted inside, as once it starts you cant really stop it and the barrels become very sensitive to rust and the pitting will spread, i dont think the older brownings