Gunsmith Part 25: Achieving Superior Accuracy Through Bolt-Action Rifle Stock Bedding

Fundamentals of Stock Bedding

Understanding the Key Areas for Bedding

The core principle behind stock bedding is to create a perfect interface between the rifle’s action (the receiver and the components housed within) and the stock. A well-bedded action and barrel ensure that every shot is delivered with maximum consistency. This is achieved by filling any gaps or inconsistencies between the action and the stock with a stable, durable, and dimensionally stable material, typically epoxy resin.

The factory fit of most rifles, while often adequate for casual shooting, is rarely ideal for precision work. There are usually small gaps or variations in contact points that can allow the action to shift slightly under recoil. These tiny movements, often measured in fractions of an inch, can significantly impact the bullet’s point of impact downrange. Think of it like a wobbly table. Even if the table has a perfectly flat surface, it won’t be stable if the legs aren’t firmly and evenly touching the floor.

Stock bedding creates a custom-fit “mold” that prevents these movements. The bedding compound fills all the voids, ensuring that the action is securely seated in the stock and that the barrel is consistently aligned. This leads to enhanced accuracy, improved shot-to-shot consistency, and potentially even a longer lifespan for your rifle.

Key Areas for Bedding

Effective stock bedding concentrates on specific areas of the rifle: the recoil lug and the action. These areas are the main points of contact between the action and the stock, and thus they dictate the rifle’s behavior under recoil.

The recoil lug is usually a metal plate that’s designed to absorb the force generated when the firearm is discharged. It sits between the action and the stock. It is essential to ensure proper contact between the recoil lug and the stock to transmit recoil forces efficiently.

The receiver of the bolt-action rifle, needs to be bedded. This includes the areas around the action screws, which are essential for securing the action to the stock. A properly bedded action promotes stability and eliminates the potential for the action to shift during firing.

Preparing Your Rifle and Stock

Disassembly and Cleaning

Before you begin the bedding process, careful preparation is critical. This involves several steps, all of which contribute to a successful outcome:

Completely disassemble your rifle, removing the action from the stock. Clean all components thoroughly, ensuring the action and stock are free of any oil, grease, or debris.

Preparing the Stock

The stock needs proper preparation:

Apply release agent generously to all areas of the action that will *not* be bedded, like the barrel, and all screw threads. This will prevent the bedding compound from adhering to the wrong places, making it easier to disassemble the rifle later.

Lightly roughen the interior surfaces of the stock where the bedding compound will be applied. This improves the mechanical bonding of the epoxy resin to the wood. Use sandpaper to create a rough texture.

If your recoil lug isn’t already a tight fit in its recess, you may need to bed it separately for optimal results.

Make sure the screw holes in your stock are perfectly aligned and that the action screws fit into their respective places easily. Use the correct drill bits if needed.

The Bedding Process: Step-by-Step

Mixing the Compound

Now, let’s dive into the application of the bedding compound. Note that there are many different bedding compounds available, and it’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the product you choose. However, the general principles remain consistent:

Carefully mix your epoxy bedding compound according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Accurate mixing is essential for proper curing and strength. Avoid introducing air bubbles.

Applying the Compound

Apply a generous layer of the mixed compound into the prepared areas of the stock: around the recoil lug, along the sides and bottom of the action, and around the action screw pillars (if present). Don’t skimp! You want full contact and a good, solid foundation.

Assembly and Seating

Carefully place the prepared action into the stock, making sure it aligns properly. Tighten the action screws, but do so gently. Don’t overtighten, as this could cause the compound to squeeze out excessively.

Checking Alignment and Contact

Now, carefully inspect your alignment. Use a level to make sure the action is level. Check the contact points. Make sure that the action is correctly seated in the compound, with good contact across the surfaces you’ve bedded.

Curing and Disassembly

Allow the bedding compound to fully cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually takes several hours, sometimes longer. Once cured, carefully loosen the action screws and disassemble the rifle. The action should now be perfectly fitted to the stock.

Finishing Touches

After disassembly, clean any excess bedding compound from the action and stock. Reassemble the rifle and tighten the action screws to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. Your rifle is now ready for testing.

Tools of the Trade

Achieving a successful bedding project requires a few essential tools:

Choose a high-quality epoxy-based bedding compound specifically designed for firearms. Examples include Marine-Tex, Devcon, or Brownells Acraglas.

Release Agent: This prevents the bedding compound from sticking to unwanted areas. Use a product specifically formulated for this purpose.

Mixing Sticks and Cups: For mixing the compound accurately.

Sandpaper: For preparing the stock surfaces.

Small Tools and Applicators: Toothpicks, cotton swabs, and other small tools to apply the compound precisely.

Torque Wrench: For tightening the action screws to the correct specifications.

Level: To make sure the action is perfectly level when assembling the bedding.

Safety Considerations: Always a Priority

Working with firearms requires a constant commitment to safety:

Always Treat Firearms as Loaded: Even if you believe the rifle is unloaded, treat it as if it is loaded.

Eye Protection: Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris.

Proper Ventilation: Work in a well-ventilated area when using epoxy compounds.

Follow Manufacturer’s Instructions: Adhere to all manufacturer’s instructions for both the firearms and the bedding compound products.

The Value of a Well-Bedded Rifle

When the action and barrel are secure, you are well on your way to maximizing your rifle’s potential, which, in turn, maximizes your shooting experience. A rifle that delivers consistent, accurate shots is not just more enjoyable to shoot; it is also more rewarding. The subtle differences that the gunsmithing art can accomplish can be significant.

A Path to Consistent Accuracy

Stock bedding is a significant element in improving the overall performance of your bolt-action rifle. While the process requires patience and precision, the rewards are well worth the effort. By creating a custom-fit foundation for your action and barrel, you are taking a crucial step toward achieving the highest possible accuracy from your firearm. Remember that this is a complex procedure, and those new to the world of gunsmithing may want to take it slowly or seek the help of a professional. The goal is always safety, with the additional goal of accuracy!

In Gunsmith Part 25, we have outlined the fundamental principles of stock bedding, the importance of careful preparation, and a step-by-step guide to the bedding process. We hope this installment provides you with a detailed understanding of the process, and empowers you to take on the challenge of bedding your own bolt-action rifle stock. We hope this has provided enough knowledge.

So, will you continue the Gunsmithing quest? Remember, patience and precision are key. Happy shooting!