I bought a custom LH Model 70 Classic in 7 X 57 by (I think) Joe Bautz. Has a 23" Krieger barrel, Blackburn trigger guard, and pretty decent wood. I like it, but it weighs 8lbs. 11 oz. on my scale with the scope. The barrel is a pretty heavy taper.

I would like to find someone that does quality work to slim the stock, turn the barrel down, do some contouring on the TG, and smooth the feed. Ideally, it would be about +/- 8 lbs with the scope (currently a Swarovsky Z3).

Care to recommend someone who will improve this rifle into a lighter weight sporter for general hunting in North America and Africa?

AT

Why not just send it back to Joe with your request.

Aaron Little came to my rescue. Sending the rifle off to him next week.

how would you rescue the stock if you turned the barrel down?

What is he going to do about the barrel inletting if he turns the bbl down? Is he going to put a step in the bbl? I've got a similar situation. Whatever he does, I'm sure it will look and feel great as all his rifles do. He is a true craftsman and artist. Please keep us informed.

A piece of matching wood (called a 'dutchman') is inletted into the barrel channel, which is then recut. I've had this done on other rifles.

Some before and after pics would be of real interest! Sounds like a great gun, btw.

quote:

Originally posted by Pat Brennan:
Some before and after pics would be of real interest! Sounds like a great gun, btw.

Perhaps Aaron would oblige us with a couple of photos.