Winchester 1300 XTR scope mount: messed up job.

[coyote trapper1928]

Here is the problem.

 I got myself a Winchester Model 1300 XTR shotgun that for whatever reason, I had a Weaver scope mount and scope put on the shotgun years ago, with the intentions of using it for deer hunting. Well , I never did use it for deer hunting and the shotgun just sat up on the rack. The rifle season is in effect now and that is what I use for the big game season.   

Back to the shotgun.

I took a good look at it today, (Why did'nt I notice it all those years ago?? )  The gunsmith, who is no longer in business, put a weaver scope mount on the shotgun.  Seems as though he drilled two holes too many and while the scope base is secure, I want to take the Weaver scope mount off the shotgun and use it for Pheasant and Rabbit hunting. The mount also makes the shotgun look REALLY UGLY!! , So, here are my questions:


1. Can the Weaver scope mounts and base be taken off the shotgun after they have been installed?

2.  What do I do about the screw holes?  Put the screws that were not there in the first place back in the holes. or leave them open?

This was a REALLY poor gunsmithing job.

[gunnut69]

If the holes are tapped a plug screw can be use to fill them. If not it gets more difficult. If using plug screws use the headed type. They have a very smll head that keeps them from going on through the tapped holes. Also be especially careful that the screws don't protrude through the receiver and interfere with the shotguns internals.