refinish stock

[woodsrunner]

Hello to all- just picked up a set of palletwood stocks from the classifieds. My plan is  to rework them by cutting off the pistol grip to make an  English style stock and work the forearm down to a slimmer splinter style.

 Couple of questions, first, I have some woodworking experience  but, is there any thing I should watch out for in paticular?

 Second is there a reason the wood fits proud of the metal?  Is this just  to make manufacturing cheaper or won't the PW stand up to the recoil without the shoulder or maybe some other reason? Can this be slimmed down?

 I know several members here have reworked stocks, so any input will be appreciated. This forum is a wealth of knowledge and experience.

 TIA--woodsrunner

[gcrank1]

Just keep track of the hole in the stock for the bolt and make the wood fit only a little bit proud of the metal like the old time stockers rather than absolutely flush.

[cwlongshot]

As suggested, just whatch the wood removed thru the stock in the wrist..
 
You are correct, a number of members have refinished and reshaped the stocks. Some are tru works of art!
 
Good luck,
 CW