Gunstock Checkering

The assigned article for this week's article summary assignment is titled "Gunstock checkering: Beyond the basics". The article is authored by Dennis A. Wood, and originally appeared in the November 2005 issue of American Gunsmith magazine.

Mr. Wood begins his article by stating that even the most complex of checkering designs can be accomplished once you understand the fundamentals of the tools. The author states he goes with Brownell's full view checkering tools for the basics. The address is also provided so one could send correspondence to Brownell's about purchasing the tools being discussed. Most of what the author has learned about the subject of checkering has come from himself, although it was not an easy road. Mr. Wood recommends a book titled "Checkering and carving gunstocks" by Monty Kennedy. As with anything else, you have to put in the work in order to obtain skills in this particular area of gunsmithing.

One of the most important items when performing checkering is what you secure the workpiece in a sturdy checkering cradle. Somme of them are available on the market, and you can also make your own. Some other basics include a good chair, good lighting, magnifying optics, and a good set of carving tools. Some cutters work going to the "draw", and others to the
You must also carve with the grain of the wood, to prevent mishaps. The composite of material for the stock will dictate your approach to the task, as well as the tools. Tight grained woods will usually use a higher line per inch (lpi). The opposite is applied for woods that are not tight grained (Am. walnut). When doing this task, it is necessary to pay attention to detail, as well as take your time. The author recommends drawing the complete dimensions onto a sheet of paper prior to beginning the work. The hardness of the wood will dictate what cutters you use, as well as the subsequent