I also find it odd that the buyer wants a refund but took the time to install the base and rings.....
That would be because technically I noticed the issue when I was getting my lazer bore sighter to try to set the gun up with a old scope I had sitting here while waiting for my good one. When setting up to bore sight it forced me to look at the serial number. After noticing something wrong I immediately took photo's and pm'ed the seller.
So I screwed up by not closely inspecting the gun right away. It will not happen again.
When I found the problem I asked for a refund or a bill showing the proper serial number. There is a choice here.
He told me his buddy was the original owner. With all at stake I would think its pretty simple to call the gun shop where it was bought and track this down.
I did run both numbers and they do not come up stolen. That was only on a website so I don't know how up to date or accurate it is.
I did not know you could run numbers on Savages website. Do now, that's cool.
I believe the seller might not of seen the number either but the reality is it is known now.
As to not asking for more pics here is one of the exact pm sections I sent him before commiting to buy......
"As long as there are no Problems/Modifications (Trigger messed with, barrel cut, stripped holes, something glued on, etc, etc) with the gun or big scratches or gouges we have a deal. I understand it has been hunted and there is probly some wear. I feel i have to ask crazy questions as i have bought some hackjobs before off cgn and it was from guys with good ratings lol."