Converting a Winchester Model 21 Side by Side from Pistol to Straight Grip | MidwayUSA Gunsmithing

Published on January 29, 2014
Duration: 13:36

This video details the complex process of converting a Winchester Model 21 side-by-side shotgun from a pistol grip to a straight grip. It covers essential gunsmithing techniques including stock reshaping with rasps and files, trigger guard modification via TIG welding, precise inletting, and advanced finishing processes like spirit staining and a 'sanded-in' oil finish. The final steps involve re-cutting checkering and rust-bluing the metal components to achieve a factory-like restoration.

Quick Summary

Converting a Winchester Model 21 from pistol to straight grip involves removing the pistol grip, welding an extension to the trigger guard for a longer tang, inletting the new tang, reshaping the stock, and applying a classic spirit stain and 'sanded-in' oil finish.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Intro: Winchester Model 21 History & Project Goal
  2. 01:48Conversion Process Overview: Pistol to Straight Grip
  3. 02:12Disassembly & Initial Stock Shaping
  4. 03:55Trigger Guard Modification & Tang Extension
  5. 04:32Inletting the New Tang & Stock Detailing
  6. 07:29Filling Old Checkering & Sanding Stock
  7. 08:54Applying Spirit Stain & Sealer
  8. 09:51Creating the 'Sanded-In' Oil Finish
  9. 12:00Re-checkering & Final Assembly

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main steps involved in converting a Winchester Model 21 pistol grip to a straight grip?

The conversion involves removing the pistol grip, extending the trigger guard tang with a welded metal piece, inletting the new tang into the stock, reshaping the stock profile, refinishing the wood, re-cutting checkering, and rust-bluing the metal components.

How is the trigger guard modified for a straight grip conversion?

A metal extension is TIG welded onto the original trigger guard to create a longer tang. This extension is then carefully shaped with files to match the profile of a factory straight-grip guard, and a new screw hole is drilled and countersunk.

What finishing techniques are used on the stock during the conversion?

The process includes applying a classic spirit stain, sealing the wood with Permalyn Sealer, and then building up a durable matte finish using a 'sanded-in' oil technique with progressively finer grits of sandpaper up to 1000-grit.

What tools are essential for reshaping the pistol grip stock?

Key tools for reshaping include a Nicholson #49 cabinet maker's rasp for initial wood removal, various files for precise shaping, chisels for inletting, and sandpaper in multiple grits for smoothing and finishing the wood.

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