doublegunshop.com - home Forums General Discussion DIY Gunsmithing @ doublegunshop.com Winchester M-71 Buttstock Query

Looking to replace the butt on my 71. This one popped up on the 'bay of E' and, while not a stunning piece of wood by any means, it is inexpensive and looks serviceable. The only bit that I hesitate over is the 'center cut' of the wood as well as the crack. Is this a non-issue or should I keep looking? (I'll probably keep looking anyway. )

https://www.ebay.com/itm/397380307968?_skw=winchester+model+71&itmmeta=01KHEYBHX2Z35RNM8SWR5CY2QB&hash=item5c85b64c00:g:DLsAAeSwX0dpMvpA&itmprp=enc%3AAQALAAAA0GfYFPkwiKCW4ZNSs2u11xAoAaOPLcoduPRE4QzFlzeZcGksgEYUINiiPxCZbwkY%2FzG6bmsL0RScdAfc%2FpKigmPOaYr8Ov7cYXHMZY%2Bps%2BW442hmFdAGsmEIgN3Om9ULABELQFIKgGZaogylQJzmzeqhUsjuKwyxEQs2bDgL4l2ad09pIAPQL2g4YxOKGhlKxq4MJvXWpmYzV6Hsh4muq9BCEr2%2BUkdKnCB9tsco4NqFgIcuK3AJa1yLgemFmXBPiUJiDFNPLNN%2Bb0PQ4ZwpZRw%3D%7Ctkp%3ABk9SR96ert6LZw

Sorry for using a link...I have some issues posting pictures.

Thank you for your input!

The direction that the grain runs through the wrist on that semi-inlet would make me pass on it, you can do better I believe.

Thank you Sir! I knew I could do better...MUCH better in fact. That stock just got me to wondering about the grain, the 'center cut' (don't know the proper term) and the crack. More education for me as I search for and work on things. I appreciate it.

Lumber containing the pith, or annular center of the log, is not recommended for fine woodworking because it is less stable than the more dense heartwood just a bit further out. It is prone to splitting or twisting and best used in things like heavier posts or beams that contain enough wood to remain stable. The grain flow through the wrist and at the stock head is far from ideal too. This blank is far too expensive considering the layout, defects, and plain figure... even at less than $50.00 delivered.

Fixed it for ‘ya!


https://ebay.us/m/zDcTRh

Best,
Ted

Thanks Ted! I "can" post pictures here but I can also be pretty lazy sometimes! Need to set up an account rather than just using the temporary ones....

How about this?

I have used these people once or twice and they are great to work with and their stocks require a minimum of fitting. If you are looking for factory original-like wood, then these are a real bargain and a dream to fit, and a great price, at least in my case.

https://precisiongunstocks.com/contents/en-us/d29.html

I did not notice that the listing also says "no longer available". But you might give them a ring anyway. I know they found a Marlin 95 square bolt stock for me after scratching around a bit.

Thanks Brent for that posting. I saw that they have inletting black and stock finishing materials, have you used either of theirs?

Indeed! Thank you Brent. I had forgotten that outfit. I picked up some of their inletting black but have not used it yet.

As for the original eBay stock, I was after a couple of things. It was cheap so it would serve as a worthwhile 'practice piece' which, if I messed up too bad, wouldn't break my heart. The second thought was just general education for me... Did the cracking matter? Does the 'center cut' matter? Were there any other issues with the piece? Etc... I am probably not going to pick it up but these thoughts run around in my head sometimes!

Keith, Sorry! I missed your earlier reply. Thank you for that input. I understand the idea of the grain flow through the wrist. Sometimes, I find it hard to track with some of the 'squirrely' grain patterns in fancier stocks but I understand what it's supposed to be. The center cut info is useful. I passed on this stock but do appreciate the education!