When building a custom rifle, is it typical to buy a blank and then have a stockmaker build the stock...or is better to engage whomever is going to build the stock and allow them to get the blank and work to what you want?

quote:

Originally posted by setch:
When building a custom rifle, is it typical to buy a blank and then have a stockmaker build the stock...or is better to engage whomever is going to build the stock and allow them to get the blank and work to what you want?

I think it depends on the builder. One way or another your builder should say nay if he doesn't approve. Make sure if you supply the blank that your supplier offers a exchange policy if the blank needs to be returned.

Most high end builders usually have a private stock of blanks that they have and been put away for many moons.

Ok...that makes sense. Do stock builders generally build to a couple of designs they have or can they accommodate something out of the ordinary?

I'm thinking I want a Schnabel forend and those aren't that popular. So I am trying to understand the different options.

Price....
Pattern or hand carved
specialised builder or general all around

you can get quotes that differ greatly just depending how the different stock makers apply their trade. I think any qualified tradesman can make a schnabel forend....but do they want to?

You need to make inquires and ask questions. There's a learning curve,as I'm still learning,that's half the fun of building a custom. Don't rush into anything.

The art of stockmaking is a challenge that I enjoy. There are so many different kinds of stock variations that it is a challenge to my skill to make one the client desires with the quality execution built in. I am not alone. There are countless others that feel the same way. As you were advised....go slowly and ask many questions. The client should get what he desires.

To me it depends.... There are a few custom companies that want you to choose from their collection of wood. The gun starts with their base line wood. Want an upgrade? Open your wallet big time. You'll end up paying three times or more what the wood would typically bring from a wood dealer. If you're using a smaller shop or individual, which is a lot smarter, just work with them, either from their stash or help with reviewing a selection of wood from a dealer.

I think you need to research stockmakers that specialize in the "out of the ordinary" style you are thinking of and make your descision based on what you find. Most stockers are going to work with you to a certain extent, but I don't know if you are going to get Jerry Fisher to build you a stainless, left feed - right bolt benchrest rifle with a red laminate thumbhole stock. I'm not trying to be a smarta$$ and I hope it didn't come off that way. Custom rifles are great fun and commisioning them is a lot of the fun.

What are you looking to build? I'm sure there are a lot of folks here that can suggest where to look if you give a starting point.

I completely understand what you are saying Bryndon, and think you are right in that I really need to figure out what I want to build.

What I know is that it will be a lightweight 260rem on a mauser action, barrel yet to be selected. I'm not going crazy with thumbholes or anything like that...but definitely want a schanbel forend and am considering an overall Bavarian style.

Aside from that, I have more ideas than answers...so if anyone has a recommendation on a reputable stockmaker (doesn't have to be renowned)...I'd be very interested in knowing.

quote:

definitely want a schanbel forend

No big deal there. Simple to cut.