Stretching the Stock part 2; band springs

[Ben Nevlezer]

Borrowing Bootsie's title. When stretching a stock with a forend blank, what is the best way to align, drill, and inset the barrel band springs???

[John Bly]

With the band in place hold the spring in the position it needs to be and mark the location of the spring pin where it needs to be on the stock. Measure carefully to make sure the pin locates between the barrel and ramrod channels. Take an awl or other sharp tool and mark a dimple at the pin location. Drill the pin hole. It is best to use a drill press or milling machine to keep it straight. Remove the band and install the spring into the hole and align it where it needs to go. With a very sharp pencil mark all around the spring. With a sharp knife score the wood on the inside of the marks. Use a narrow sharp wood chisel to remove the wood in the marked area. Work slowly and check the fit often. Use a marking agent such as inletting black, Prussian blue or even lipstick to mark where you need to remove wood. Be patient and work carefully, keep checking the fit and you should end up with a good job.

I've heard where some people use a milling machine to cut the band spring slots. I've never done it that way. I guess I just do things the hard way but it works for me.

[hwaugh]

Ben, Go down and see your neighbor Steve Doyle...he can walk you through this process on your stock.

Harry

[Ben Nevlezer]

Ben, Go down and see your neighbor Steve Doyle...he can walk you through this process on your stock.

Harry
Unfortunately, The Doyle Stock School has been virtual only due to Covid restrictions.

[hwaugh]

Sorry Ben...forgot about Covid...

[BADSHOT]

I offered The Band Springs 101 course a year and a half ago, but Ben said he was going to fire up the 1947 McCulloh Chainsaw, and give that a method a try.

[Ben Nevlezer]

I offered The Band Springs 101 course a year and a half ago, but Ben said he was going to fire up the 1947 McCulloh Chainsaw, and give that a method a try.
I wasn't going to mention that method. But hey, John Bly needs some business too!