Repair sling swivel holes in stocks?
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cantgrowup
- Posts: 136
- Joined: Tue Apr 23, 2019 9:27 am
Repair sling swivel holes in stocks?
I just picked up a Model 8 in good shape, except it has two sling swivel holes drilled in the front and rear stocks. There are also wood chips missing from the two holes. I would like advice on how to best repair these (if possible).... whether that is trying it myself or sending off to an expert that anyone recommends.
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MinnesotaDan
- Posts: 222
- Joined: Sun Jul 21, 2019 4:17 pm
Re: Repair sling swivel holes in stocks?
I personally think that the best way to "repair" this situation is to install some sling studs or sling swivels. The chip will not be as noticeable once a sling swivel is in place. If the chip really bothers you, I guess that you could sand it, but I would start with the sling studs or sling swivels, whichever you prefer and see how it looks.
The history of your rifle was that someone used it in the field, and as such, they felt that sling swivels were a good addition to the functionally of the rifle. Having a sling may have actually kept the rifle from being dropped and damaged at some point, so in the big scheme of things, it kept your rifle in better condition overall than it otherwise would have been.
Just my two cents worth. I have never really been in agreement with the "original finish" crowd, unless a rifle is in pristine condition as it left the factory. I think that the moment someone places sling swivels, (or gets a nick or scratch on the wood or the metal) the rifle is no longer in "original finish" condition.
Enjoy your rifle for what it is-a really cool, old hunting rifle, designed by a true genius.
How about a few more photos? Thanks!
Dan
The history of your rifle was that someone used it in the field, and as such, they felt that sling swivels were a good addition to the functionally of the rifle. Having a sling may have actually kept the rifle from being dropped and damaged at some point, so in the big scheme of things, it kept your rifle in better condition overall than it otherwise would have been.
Just my two cents worth. I have never really been in agreement with the "original finish" crowd, unless a rifle is in pristine condition as it left the factory. I think that the moment someone places sling swivels, (or gets a nick or scratch on the wood or the metal) the rifle is no longer in "original finish" condition.
Enjoy your rifle for what it is-a really cool, old hunting rifle, designed by a true genius.
How about a few more photos? Thanks!
Dan