Get a copy of Jerry Fisher's mechanical drawing for stock layout- good place to start. Ruger stocks generally have enough wood left on them to build another stock! Kidding but some truth. Plenty of good pictures of custom guns on the web to get a good idea. Start with Morris Hallowell, good quality pictures. Whether tapered or straight they should match side to side, no wavering. Do you have a copy of Dave Westerbrook's book?