Insights into each of these well known stock and gun customizers is most welcome.
What do you know or think about them?

I would appreciate hearing from Duane Weibe if he sees this.


This is a not a "versus" question. I am seeking opinions on both from an artistic view. What do you like about each?

I knew Dale as a fine gentlemen, willingly shared his knowledge.

Joe and I talk at least monthly..Good friend! Great sense of humor.

I took a checkering class taught by Joe Balickie in '93. He's quit a character. He could chatter a mile a minute, all the while cuttin' lines ...

I have a feeling the OP meant about the quality of their craftsmanship.

I hate these threads. This gunmaker vs that one. If the OP really wants info either a) ask gunmaker for references or b) post a thread asking for actual owners of such guns to contact him personally to discuss in private.

Blue,
This isn't a "versus" question. I was looking for comparisons. Both are outstanding at their craft as is Duane Weibe. I am looking for impressions.

I misstated what I am looking for.

Not trying to create a competition....

I took it from your title. I think you may get some answers you seek privately.

Sorry for the confusion. No intent to start a "who is the best" discussion.

At the sheep show this year I had the pleasure of handling Jack O’Conner’s Biesen #2 rifle. The Goens 270 I have feels identical to that rifle. The appearance of the comb is obviously different, but the forend, grip, and weight distribution felt remarkably similar. Have not handled a Balickie rifle.

I have a Balickie rifle built on a Mauser action in 270 Win. It was one of my absolute favorite rifles that I own. His stock work is incredible with perfect lines and great attention to detail. Most of his rifles that I’ve seen are basically all close to the same stock layout and are all very slender and feel wonderful! If you want to see pictures of some of his work feel free to shoot me a DM and I can text some of them to you.

quote:

If you want to see pictures of some of his work feel free to shoot me a DM and I can text some of them to you.

Why not post them here so everybody can enjoy them?

I have owned a couple of Goens rifles..I liked the guns but didn't care for his signature fat comb, although it worked well enough..

My all time favorite gun maker was and still is the late Jack Hough, and his son has that same talent...I owned 3 of Jacks rifles, that I bought second hand.. My only problem with custom rifles is I hunt too hard and tend to wear them out too soon!!