Brownells - Jack Rowe, Master Gunsmith Series, Stock Bending. Part 2

Published on November 10, 2010
Duration: 9:11

Master Gunsmith Jack Rowe demonstrates the technique for bending a shotgun stock using a vise and heat. He emphasizes the importance of over-bending to compensate for wood springback and stresses thorough post-bending cleaning to ensure firearm safety and functionality. This technique is crucial for achieving proper gun fit and improving shooter accuracy, especially for aging shooters.

Quick Summary

Master Gunsmith Jack Rowe demonstrates bending a shotgun stock by heating it and applying pressure in a vise, emphasizing the need to over-bend to compensate for wood springback. Proper stock fit, achieved through techniques like cast-off, is vital for improving shooter accuracy and gun handling.

Chapters

  1. 00:08Stock Bending Technique Introduction
  2. 00:44Jig vs. Manual Bending
  3. 01:06Wood Springback Compensation
  4. 01:41Removing Heating Cloth Safely
  5. 02:26Achieving the Desired Bend
  6. 02:54Prioritizing Functionality Over Perfection
  7. 03:57Post-Bending Inspection
  8. 04:32Refitting and Safety Checks
  9. 05:30Wood Types and Bending Difficulty
  10. 06:26Measuring and Defining Cast
  11. 06:44Testing Stock Fit on Action
  12. 07:07Successful Outcome Confirmed
  13. 07:12Improving Shooter Performance with Fit
  14. 08:41Benefits of Proper Gun Fit Explained

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you bend a wooden shotgun stock?

Master Gunsmith Jack Rowe demonstrates bending a shotgun stock by wrapping it in cloth, heating it, and carefully applying pressure in a vise. He stresses over-bending to account for wood springback and ensuring thorough cleaning afterward.

What is 'wood springback' in gunsmithing?

Wood springback refers to the tendency of heated and bent wood to return to its original shape slightly after pressure is released. Gunsmiths must over-bend the stock to compensate for this, ensuring the final desired shape is achieved once cooled.

Why is proper gun fit important for shooting accuracy?

Proper gun fit, particularly the correct cast-off or cast-on, helps shooters bring the gun to their eye more quickly and naturally. This prevents shooting behind the target and significantly improves overall accuracy, especially for those with changing physical needs.

What are the key safety checks after bending a shotgun stock?

After bending and refitting a wooden stock, it's crucial to strip down all firearm parts. This ensures no linseed oil or residue has entered the trigger or safety mechanisms, which could cause them to seize and create a dangerous malfunction.

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