I am beginning the process of having 3 Ruger Mannlicher Stocked Stainless rifles built for my 3 children. I will keep this thread going if there is any interest until completion.

These are the factory rifles that will be re-stocked in presentation grade walnut for the project.

The first is a Ruger 10/22 SS Birch for Carli...........



The second is a Ruger M77 MKII SS in 257 Roberts for Cade. This is the rifle that got it all started. It's a decent piece of wood but I want these to be exceptional.


The third is a Ruger SS #1 in 35 Whelen for Bo........This isn't the rifle but is a representation.......I am negotiating for the rifle now.



I have located an outstanding gunsmith and stock maker in Mr Chris K'nerr of www.riflerestorer.com to do the work. I am now searching for the blanks and wood(pun intended) like some input. This is a once in a lifetime opportunity for me so I really want these rifles to turn out well. Any suggestions are appreciated.

The blanks that I will be choosing from are below.

I like the last three blanks best. Should be a nice set of rifles when you're done.

Thanks for the comments and suggestions.........

I am thinking this right now. What do you think? It's tough making this decision because hopefully these things will be in the family for many years to come.

2129 - Carli's 10/22



2137 - Cade's 257R


2126 - Bo's 35 Whelen

Its a shame, but folks here on AR don't get too excited about:

1. Ruger customization
2. Stainless steel coupled with wood stocks

Now, change that to three mausers, ask what calibers they should be, what wood should go with what, and ask about extras and goodies, and you would have 100 replies by now.

I like 2129a,2129b,2126b, with 2129a being the best looking to me. I happen to really like that color and grain structure. My last custom 257 Mdl70 is stocked with a similar piece.

I like # 2137A ,2126A # 1 has nice ribbon and fiddle back .

Wood is a personal thing an no matter how good a picture may allow wood to appear , seeing first hand touchy feeley is paramount .

I'm sure the Stock maker is the First and at the very least second person to consult when choosing your masterpieces .

BOL They should be Marvelous !.

Shoot Straight Know Your Target . ...

Robert,
Nice wood don't forget to inquire as to how long they have been dry. They re going to be beautiful.

Can I send you my adoption papers?

Since good rifle stock blanks are so hard to come by, and expensive, I'd look for a two piece stock blank for the #1. You can get a better piece of wood for less money that way and save the long blank for something else.

What a wonderful project. I am a fan of wood with fiddle back but I have to admit that the feathers in numbers 500, 350, and 450 are attractive. I like 2137 also for the grain flow and contrast. DW