There is no nickel plated stainless steel- one or the other. Rossia 62A is selling for $350-$425 depending on condition
Resists rust better.
There are different alloys both of nickel and stainless steels, some stronger than others. Both can be extremely strong metals, more than adequate for about any firearm. No one single answer- sorry.
10-1000 usd
Yes, stainless steel can be made without nickel by using manganese as an alternative alloying element. Manganese can help enhance the strength and corrosion resistance of stainless steel, similar to nickel. Additionally, there are nickel-free stainless steel grades available that use elements like nitrogen and molybdenum for improved properties.
The Columbia name was used by several manufacturers. Other markings could narrow it down, but the most likely makers are WH Davenport, Harrington and Richardson, and Hopkins and Allen. It's unlikely that the nickel was put in the stock by the manufacturer. If it was made by any of those I mentioned, it will be nickle (or bright, unblued steel), as stainless steel wasn't available in the time period it would have been manufactured.
Contrary to the previous answer, S&W did make a 916A pump-action shotgun (as I'm sure the questioner knows), but it was swiftly withdrawn from production and most examples were recalled, as they were prone to barrel ruptures. A 916A 'Special' was produced, but it was nickel-plated, rather than stainless steel. Hope that helps.
No known published sn data.
Yes. Nickel creates stainless steel and the compound creates tires.
chromium and nickel
Stainless steel contain iron (as base) and nickel, chrome, vanadium, etc.
Iron, chromium and nickel
Important alloying elements in stainless steel are chromium, nickel, vanadium, molybdenum.