stock stiffening question

[nmkid]

So...Today my attention is focused on the stock for my new rifle. Many thanks to all the members that offered suggestions on my problems in resizing 6.5-284 cases to 6mm-284. Thank goodness that is over with. I have one of the new Stocky stocks with the aluminum bedding block, (LR Composite REM 700). The inside of the stock, underneath the barrel is webbed. Does this webbing serve as a stiffening for the front of the stock? Or just a process to save costs for the manufacturer? The reason I was asking is that it looks like a perfect place to fill with bedding material to increase stiffness.

 

[Dusty Stevens]

Fill it up. Wont hurt nothin but balance

 

[Alex Wheeler]

If its plastic, the bedding will most likely crack out. Flex wont hurt you unless its enough to let the barrel touch.

 

[akajun]

I have stiffened up usgi fiberglass m14 stock forends with carbon fiber arrow shafts epoxied into them. It does work well. I used fiberglass resin as the epoxy.
THis was a common procedure back for people who couldnt afford a Mcmillan.

 

[mac86951]

I have seen 3m 2216 used to fill voids before bedding, yes they are for stiffening and mold release for manufacturability and a lighter weight/cost. Use your bedding material to fill them.

-Mac

 

[pahoghunter]

Some years ago I had a Steyr with webbing I filled it with JB WELD. Worked fine.

 

[nmkid]

Thanks guys. I'll be on it tomorrow.

 

[WindSurgeon]

I wanted to add that in addition to stiffening with epoxy, it is also a good opportunity to add some weight if it is needed. A simple way to do this is to add lead shot to the epoxy mix before filling the voids in the forestock (never under the action). This method can also be applied to the rear of the stock if hollow. Filling the rear of the stock will also deaden that hollow sound and vibration. If no weight is needed, use foam in the rear of the stock.