I am looking for some one that can checker a stock for me. I am working on a Dutch Mannlicher in the British style in 6.5x53R and would like the pattern to be in the style used on the early rifles.
I can scare up some photos of what I would like but no idea what costs I am going to incur.
This is the stock I am working on. The stock is English walnut.

There are some absolutely outstanding checkerers posting on this site, but I think many of them prefer to do it only if they do the whole stock job.

If you don't find somebody here check with Ahlman's in Minnesota. I believe they still do checkering and will checker almost any stock.

I have used Tim Smith Lyons 3 times and had excellent service, and he does not care who does the stock. Takes a deposit but will not cash the check until he starts your project.

I have used Tim Smith Lyon twice- will not again. Both times he used smaller patterns than requested and the stocks come back smelling like an ashtray. b

You will want flat top checkering. That will thin the herd out a lot because it's unforgiving and you can't use a powered tool.

quote:

Originally posted by Russ Gould:
You will want flat top checkering. That will thin the herd out a lot because it's unforgiving and you can't use a powered tool.

Yup! And bring your pocket book.

Dennis Olson has a neighbor girl that does his checkering and she is awesome..I used her while my hand was in a cast, outstanding and fast. She doesn't even use a cradle she does it on a towell in her lap Im told..absolutely no flaws, none..any pattern and not expensive..

quote:

Originally posted by Russ Gould:
You will want flat top checkering. That will thin the herd out a lot because it's unforgiving and you can't use a powered tool.

Actually....I use a power tool for flat top...I had a cutter ground at a very sharp angle..Once you get the line, finish up with a conventional hand tools.
No...not soliciting a job...just passing on info.

Thanks for all the information but it is now a moot point as I had to send it off to have another made as a crack developed through the wrist. Looks like there were some stresses that was not apparent when shaping the stock.
Damn aggravating

Yeah..the grain in the wrist was not ideal...probably would have failed AFTER you spent $$$ on checkering

That "neighbor girl" has been checkering for 35 years and is another Kimber of Oregon Graduate of the Pat Taylor School of Checkering! You should see the shirts she makes! She is also an excellent seamstress. She is with out a doubt the fastest checkerer I have ever known or heard of.

Dennis,
I had to have hand construction from my other bad habit, team roping, so had her do a few stocks for me, she did fantastic work..Dennis said it took her about 45 minutes for my English pattern with mallard borders, It takes me a week or more..but age and injury has taken its toll..

Sorry Ray, couldn't help myself