Wood checkering tooling

[MRogersII]

Good evening. I am looking to start checkering some of the stocks I've built and was wanting to reach out for recommendations on tooling & brands from those of you who have actually used them.
As always, thank you for the quality feedback and experience sharing.
Michael

 

[paperpuncher]

I have dembart stuff I found it to serve my needs in every way. I will add I am a hobbyist at best

 

[Will Henry]

I have used Dem-Bart, gunline, and some homemade tools. All have been fine. The MMC power unit was a gamechanger for me. WH

 

[MRogersII]

Is there a short list that you guys can provide regarding which specific tools I should get started with? I've read a bit on it and it seems like there's a veining (sp) tool for single lines and outlining and then multi row cutters for the actual checkering. I guess I mean those tools I need to do basic checkering.
Thank you

 

[clowdis]

https://www.ullmanprecision.com/ This is about the best place to get some quality tooling. If you can afford it get the 5/8 carbide liner as you can use it for about any checkering job regardless of spacing and will last a very long time and cut straighter lines. With that you can get regular tool steel spacers in left and right in whatever spacing you want and you're about set. I'd recommend the 90* cutters. As an addition you may also want a 90* veiner chisel to get into tight corners. Buy a book on checkering to get some idea about how to do it as well as some patterns. But basically, you lay out the two guide lines and use the spacers to lightly cut a line along them and then go back with the liner to bring all lines to depth. Practice a lot before starting on a good gunstock. It is a acquired skill.

 

[MRogersII]

Next question, is it unwise to post a thread and buy used?

 

[clowdis]

Next question, is it unwise to post a thread and buy used?

Yes, carbon steel tools seem to last for about 1 maybe 2 stocks before they are dull and useless, depending on checkering patterns of course. But if you could find a new set of tools that might be good. Some people buy tools, try the checkering, find out it's not for them and so they sell the tools.

 

[shortgrass]

http://www.steveearleproducts.com/index.htm Steve Earl makes quality products (I am not affiliated in any way, just 1 of his customers) Monte Kennedys' book, "The Checkering and Carving of Gunstocks", is probably one of the best publications out there.

 

[rabradshaw]

Good evening. I am looking to start checkering some of the stocks I've built and was wanting to reach out for recommendations on tooling & brands from those of you who have actually used them.
As always, thank you for the quality feedback and experience sharing.
Michael

I had a bright idea that I was going to start checkering stocks. Didn’t pan out. I shoot F class and between reloading, shooting matches, and work I have no time for checkering. I have some tools I bought and never used, they’re all brand new. I’d be willing to part with them if you’re interested.
All came from Wood Carvers Supply, still in the packaging:
2- checkering tool holders
1- 60 deg single line cutter
1- 75 deg single line cutter
1- 90 deg single line cutter
1- 18 LPI spacing cutter
1- 20 LPI spacing cutter
1- pro checkering gauge

I also have a UJ Ramelson veiner and a Lutz line straightener that I bought used from EBay. If you’re interested PM me and I’ll send pics.
.