How functional is laser cut checkering?

[Corn-Picker]

I found a few threads on laser cut checkering using the search feature, but none of them addressed the functionality of the checkering.

I have a 1968 Model 70 Winchester with original stock (pressed wood checkering). I know that cut checkering is functional, and I know that the pressed checkering is cosmetic, but I don't know where laser cut checkering falls in relation to those two. Does the laser cut checking provide any additional grip?

Also, if anyone has any recommendations for an affordable Post-64 long-action stock I'd like to hear them. I can get a Boyd's Prairie Hunter in laminate with a few custom options (12.75" LOP and laser cut checkering) for under $200. I might be willing to spend a little more, say $300 max, but this will be a hunting rifle and not a show piece so I don't want to spend too much on the furniture.

 

[rcmodel]

I think it falls somewhere between hand cut checkering and impressed checkering.

It is not as grippy as pointed diamonds.

But grippier then no pointy diamonds at all.

rc

 

[DPris]

Done right, it's perfectly functional.
Done poorly, it leave indistinct diamonds & rounded surfaces, looks like crap.
Denis

 

[rule303]

It's definitely more useful than pressed checkering. I have seen some laser checkering that was very well done, almost as good as cut, and some that is pretty lame. The Boyd's stocks with laser checkering are usually pretty good. It really depends on the density of the wood how cleanly the laser cuts. Laminate seems to take laser checkering better than walnut.

 

[Laphroaig]

I am the proud owner of a 1964 vintage M70, in 30-06. I've owned it since it was new, and hated the stock every second. For a number of years I fitted it with a cheap synthetic which I didn't like either because it made a lot of noise when it scraped brush while hunting. Anyway, I have thought about replacing it, and have saved the following two sites which I liked. Since you asked...

http://rifle-stocks.com/oldclassic.htm

http://www.stockysstocks.com/servlet/StoreFront

Laphroaig

 

[velocette]

For those that have impressed checkering or laser cut checkering and don't like it, you have an option.
http://www.checkering.com/ is the website of Sherry Abraham. She was the head checker'er at Kimber of Oregon & now runs her own business.
She claims to be able to correct or improve poorly done checkering, impressed checkering etc.
Might be worth your time to talk with her.