Wildcat stocks

[Husa-Monster]

Looking for info on how much finishing the inletting requires on a Wildcat Composite stock. The website is very forthcoming about how raw the their stocks are, but personal experiences are worth more than a couple pictures.

 

[gunpro]

I have used one on a custom build for a M98 action. The barrel channel required a bit of modification due to the straight taper of my barrel but the action dropped right in. Depending on what you are planning to put the stock on, there may be less work. I would suggest firing them off an email with your question about your plans. If anything, Wildcat will let you know where you may need to do some fitting for your project. IF it is something custom, give him some barrel dimensions and you will get a clear picture of the work in front of you.

 

[hunter5425]

I've used a couple and there is some finishing to do. The action screw holes need to be drilled out , there is an indent where they should be but I measured and marked mine to be sure. If you have a longer than factory barrel shank there is little room in that part of the action to hog it out and I had to do a small patch on one rifle where I ground through the stock. They may require the barrel channel to be modified as mentioned but again there is not a lot of material there ( hence the lightweight). They are a well made stock and are stiff for the weight, I'd use them again if I'm looking at building a lightweight rifle.

 

[double gun]

I have finished probably a dozen wildcats. At first I was intimidated, but once you build a little confidence I find them very easy/forgiving to work with. Stuart is a awesome guy to deal with and will offer any advice you may need along the way. I have also tried other brands of "ultralight" stock blanks and will say that I have learned my lesson and will stick with wildcat. They are easier to finish, lighter, stiffer, reasonably priced, and best of all made here in Canada.

 

[everett]

I have 3 of them and about to order a 4th they are a little work but well worth it my last stock for a model 7 finished at 17.5 OZ with bedding paint and a homemade recoil pad.

 

[Husa-Monster]

Thanks guys.

Nothing fancy planned. The stock on my Winchester M70 ranger has cracked between the action screws, and after repeated attempts at repairing it the crack has begun to creep forward. Time for a new one! I've got a new 1 piece drop plate for the rifle as well (the one thing this rifle has been missing.) I'm not afraid of a little work, and being a machinist, have access to a whole machine shop full of tools. But, a little intimidated - having never done one before. I think Ill give Wildcat a call in the new year and talk to Stuart.