I am using the Dakota model A (not the pointy one); I have it nicely inletted now, but I'm wondering about the checkered panel...

Should the bottom of the checking lines be at the top edge of the metal grip cap? Or the bottom, or somewhere in between?

Thanks,
Todd

Todd, you lost me with the question. I usually put a border around the edge of a skeleton grip cap so I don't go all the way to the edge if that is what you were talking about. I did a point pattern once. Yuk. Also do it a much finer lpi, like 28or 32(my preference)

Hard to see but here is an example on a skeleton butt plate.



Okay I understand now. Sand, file, etc. the panel until it is smooth the the metal and then checker it. The tops of the diamonds will be level or along the arc of the metal.

[ 02-18-2003, 03:48: Message edited by: Customstox ]

Let me try to clarify -- it sounded a little muddy.

Before I checker, should the wood panel be proud of the edge of the cap (such that the bottom of the checkering line I cut ends up flush with the edge of the cap), or at the same level (bottom of checkering line below edge of cap)?

I am set up for 24 lpi checkering -- I hope that will look ok. I'll be damn lucky to get the checkering right, and you want me to do a border??

Thanks,
Todd

I guess we were both typing at the same time. That's what I was wondering -- it seems like having the diamonds slightly recessed would protect them a bit in that area. Also, the cap is domed (or would be if the middle wasn't cut out). Do I dome the wood panel, or do flat across -- again it seems like making it flat would protect the checkering a bit.

This was kind of fun to do, and looks fantastic. Very nice job on that butt plate, by the way. My next super fancy rifle, the full stock 7x57, will have one of those if I can figure it out.

Thanks,
Todd

Dome it, the surface should be shaped just like a comletely metal cap. They do look good. If you can find some finer checkering cutters you will find 32 is easy. The border is simple too. Just use a scribe and set it for the distance. Scratch.

Have fun. BTW, we want pictures.

[ 02-18-2003, 10:03: Message edited by: Customstox ]