Stockmaking project - How to cut thumbhole?

[w123driver]

I am wondering what would be the right way to cut thumbhole pattern in a stock (without ruining it ). I have cut several sporter stocks from walnut blanks, mostly for Mausers, but never done one with a thumbhole. I have a sporter stock which I want to use as a template. The only power tool I have is adrill press. I guess I will need some rat tale file or round rasp. I use chisels and scrappers for inletting and spokeshave and thumbplane for outer shape. I wonder when I should start cutting thumbhole - before or after outer shape is done. Your help much appreciated!

 

[Larryh128]

1st, I'm in no way a stockmaker, but I think that I would have the final overall shape pretty much roughed in before I put the thumbhole in. Pilot hole could certainly be drilled thru with a hole saw. Most are on an angle so the thumb can extend toward the muzzle if that makes any sense. That side gets dished out quite a bit and it has to be comfortable for the user. And it has to line up properly with the trigger.

 

[pdhntr]

I am wondering what would be the right way to cut thumbhole pattern in a stock (without ruining it ). I have cut several sporter stocks from walnut blanks, mostly for Mausers, but never done one with a thumbhole. I have a sporter stock which I want to use as a template. The only power tool I have is adrill press. I guess I will need some rat tale file or round rasp. I use chisels and scrappers for inletting and spokeshave and thumbplane for outer shape. I wonder when I should start cutting thumbhole - before or after outer shape is done. Your help much appreciated!

I did a lot of research on thumbhole stocks before designing mine. One of the things I found out about many of the designs on the market, is that they are just a sporter stock with an angled hole for the thumb. There seemed to be very little thought involved with ergonomics. Placing a hole in a sporter stock for the thumb, pulls the index finger away from the trigger. If you have extremely long fingers, it might work out, but for most shooters you have to stretch to reach the trigger.

Of course the solution is to redesign that portion of the stock and consider moving the inletting back so the trigger can be reached comfortably. My thumbhole stocks have a large area that is cut out that allows the thumb and palm area under the thumb to wrap around the stock. You could also consider them pistol grip stocks. Regardless, they allow a normal person to reach the trigger comfortably.

So…..if you decide to build a stock whose thumbhole compliments the position of the trigger hand, then you must have a pretty good idea of the location of the trigger shoe. That would decide when and where I roughed in the hole.

I use auger type bits to remove the bulk of the material, drilling side by side holes. One time I thought I could save a few minutes and use spade type bits that are faster, the idea cost me a nice heavy duty drill and some almost broke fingers.

 

[Acme7]

Read this thread on another site. I found it very informative. There are step by step details on the different links when you get there. Jeff
http://www.network54.com/Forum/79537/thread/1362785899/Stock+Making+101+-+Installing+the+Adjustable+Comb+Hardware

 

[Preacher]

This is how I start it off, I always need to get a grip on stuff first...

 

[Larryh128]

Nice stock on that mauser.