I have an unusual rifle stock question

[daredwit]

Why don't gunmakers make rifles with the full length top and bottom wooden handguards anymore (i.e. the Muser, Enfield and 1903 Springfield). I have always preferred the look of the older military rifles as opposed to todays style with the one piece stock and no wood on top of the barrel.

Anyone know where I might have this type of stock made for a modern bolt action rifle say a Ruger M77 or Savage? Basically, I want a .223 or .270 with the look of a 1903 Springfield.

 

[lowes79]

They don't do that anymore because it gives the gun an approximate weight of 10 tons! You're about them looking nice, but I wouldn't want to cary one through the woods all day. But, i don't really care for that 1/2 ounce synthetic crap either.

 

[rockstar.esq]

My guess is that it's becase the top part was to serve as a handle when using the bayonnet. Given the lack of bayonnet related hunting, most folks would rather reduce weight, improve cooling, and have better access to reduce the potential for corrosion on their barrels.

I might further your question and ask why stockmaking companies don't make replica stocks with longer lengths of pull? Granted a long armed monkey like myself can technically shoot a stumpy military type rifle but it's uncomfortable.

As for your Ruger, I'd have to suggest that you seek out a gunsmith with a stock duplicating machine. I'd bet that you could mount the Springfield stock to duplicate the exterior portion of the stock, then mount the ruger stock to do the inletting. Otherwise get out a chisel and some free time!

 

[DoubleTapDrew]

Besides weight I wonder if it also causes the barrel to retain heat longer. I don't think wood is the greatest dissipator of heat. They do look nice though.
Don't they also make it impossible (or nearly so) to free float the barrel?

 

[browningguy]

Problems with them, as mentioned weight, cost more, can affect accuracy unless done right, which makes them cost even more, and a very tiny market of people that would buy them.

Almost any custom stock maker could build you one.

 

[30Cal]

Don't they also make it impossible (or nearly so) to free float the barrel?

Yep. Freefloating isn't the only answer out there. A little foreend pressure typically works really well.

 

[MacPelto]

Besides weight I wonder if it also causes the barrel to retain heat longer.

It does, but the barrel heats evenly on all sides, thus avoiding a problem with vertical stringing. Shooting dozens of rounds in rapid succession with a sporter stock can make the barrel bend ever so slightly. Combined with the need to protect the hand from heat when using a bayonet, you get a full length stock.

Mac