what is the big deal with shadow lines?? is there a purpose or is it a show off thing? i never cared to much for them so just asking

I would think that one purpose of a shadow line (like say on a cheekpiece) would be for a gunmaker or stockmaker to show his (or her) ability and craftsmanship. Just another little touch that makes the whole more than just a sum of its pieces.

It's extra ornamentation, like engraving. When it's done correctly it adds to the beauty of the gun, when it's done poorly it detracts.

I think they look great. I have one on a Shiloh Sharps 45-70.

quote:

Originally posted by df06:
I think they look great.

+1

+2

On an expensive custom stock, they should have a shadow line, it just looks nice and shows some skill on the stockmakers part although is easy enough to do..without one its like a picture hanging on the wall without a frame..

In reality there is no real need for a cheek piece its just an add on for looks and the gunmakers skill..Nor is there any need for a foreend cap. grip cap or even checkering if you really want to get specific about it..We shot guns without checkering for ions, and never knew better..A gun can get real plain Jane if you strip it down to "whatcha gotta have".