Since this is my first stock for a Mauser, I have a question about the inletting of the ejector box. Or more specifically, the screw that holds it to the action.

This screw has a sharp point on the end that embeds into the stock. My question is this: when inletting do you try to drill the stock to accept the point of the screw or do you use that point to create its own hole in the stock?

My wood of my stock is old and quite dry and I don't want to split it by driving the point in. Have any of you drilled a hole for the point?

Thanks in advance.

Sure you can... if your worried about the stock spliting, drilling the hole would be the better option. I have a time or two filed the point off, and put a small bevel on the edge. Then the hole doesnt have to be as deep, although either way doesnt mater.

I always drill a small hole.

Use the screw hole in the ears on the action as a drill guide to precisely locate this.

I use the sharp point of the screw to mark the center then drill with a 1/8" bit.

A few years ago, I restocked my .35 Whelen. After completion, the rifle would not properly eject . After much angst and tinkering, I discovered that I had drilled the hole a bit off with too small a bit and the tip of the screw was been pushed off center when it pressed against the side of the hole. This was enough to misalign the ejector so it stuck in it's receiver slot and not properly enter the slot in the bolt. A slightly larger hole solved my problem. I'm more careful now.

Thanks guys, I appreciate you taking the time to respond. Always good advice to be had around here.

I have never understood the function of that sharpened screw tip. What good is it?

quote:

I have never understood the function of that sharpened screw tip. What good is it?

Makes it easier to put the action back together. Helps line up the lever and ejector.