I had pics around of my 450-400 when I bought it, and thanks to Rusty, some pics when I picked it up from Dustin's shop after he refinished it for me. Reason I took it in is that it was weeping oil behind the action in any temp over 80 degrees which is basically every day in Texas). I was concerned the stock would eventually get pulpy and would be ruined. I didn't get exact number, but Dustin says he puts 40 to 60 coats of finish in a job like this.

For those who haven't heard of him yet, he is in Houston and trained by Purdy, now Purdy's US rep for gun work.

Before:

After:

He's the real deal. Bob

Bob,
She sure looks purrty! He sure did a fine job! I can't wait to see it in person! Have fun with Katte! Send him my regards! Hey Bob, remember, lots of pictures!!!

I have shot bobc's 450/400 double, with full power 400gr bullets and 300gr bullets, and can say, it is one fine shooting double rifle.

Is it just computer-challenged me, or are those photos too tiny to see any detail?

Bob, could you post bigger photos, or links to same?

I'd sure appreciate it, as I'd love to see more detail.

MR,

Unfortunately, it appears that the refinish process shrunk Bob's rifle.

From 450/400 to .17 caliber. But it looks great!

I can help with the after picture

There ya go, Rusty, thanks. I'm just getting used to posting pictures again, so I'm not quite up to speed.

Alternative scenario, I'm trying to get used to the 6 inch length of pull.

Bob

Bob,

Looks even better in person.

Dustin did some work on my William Evans, specifically, he shaped the firing pins and installed springs to get the firing pins to fully retract after firing so that they would not drag on opening the action. Gun works like a charm now.

Bob,

All joking aside, having held the "before" version, I would never have believed that this was the same stock. The before version was a great looking rifle, but what Dustin did is nothing short of remarkable. What a beaut!

What in the heck did he use to get the oil out without damaging the wood? And how long did it take? A transformation like that would make a Beverly Hills plastic surgeon green with envy.

I believe Dustin uses whiting to draw out the oil. It took repeated coatings to get the oil out. He refinishes with a slacum type finish, I believe, and put well over 40 coats on it. I dropped it off in mid October I recall and picked up about 3 weeks ago.
Bob

Beautiful stock, Bob.

Bob, it was worth the wait! I can't wait to feel her up at the next opportunity!

quote:

Originally posted by Rusty:
I can help with the after picture

Here's the before photo.