New intending to carve gunstock

[jconners]

I have tentatively selected a Dremel 4000 with Workstation Model 220 and Flex Shaft Attachment Model 225 using highspeed diamond bits to create basket weave pattern and deep relief carvings of oak and acorns with rabbit and squirrel images...to be created in my Grandfather's .22 cal rifle walnut stock.

I have purchased a number of books and videos that are arriving and being read/viewed. I have also examined a number of YouTube videos.

I also intend to purchase a few Kirschen hand tools.

This will be my first attempt.

I have joined the Yahoo woodcarving group and have been seeking their input as I begin to make decisions.

Jer

[Bruce Bird]

Sounds like a good thing to do on the 22 .There is no checkering on it now? Somewhere in this group is a gun stock maker if I remember right.Do post a few photos of our work.
Bruce

[jconners]

No checkering on the existing walnut stock which has some distressed marks and needs to be cleaned and sanded before commencing and wood working. The rifle was used by my Grandfather and given to me by him when I was about 12 years old and used by me to hunt cotton tails and squirrels which were eaten by my family and neighbors.

I will post photos as I proceed...I do not anticipate performing any of the carvings until late Dec.

Jer

[telecarver]

I don't know how much the cost of the tool is a factor in the process for you but a high speed micro motor would be a better choice for this project.

[jconners]

Cost is a factor...but I do need to work with tools that will allow me to work the wood...slowness is not a factor with the power tools...burning them up if they are undersized for the project would be.

[telecarver]

The advantage of the micro motor is that it will run much smoother with less bearing slop than the dremel. The RPMs are usually faster with a micro motor which is nice for general detail carving but that may not be a factor with diamond bits in walnut because too fast of a speed can cause burning. Start with some coarse diamond bits for rough out. The Dremel flexshaft will inhibit mobility somewhat. The Dremel could be used for rough out and the micro motor for detail. Many of the professional gunstock carvers use the turbo 300 for fine detail but then that requires an air compressor with a good filtering device.

[jconners]

Thank you...I am certain that I will be amending my tool choices and methods once I commence the work and your information has helped

[fly fisher]

I got my stocks wet and they shrunk

[jconners]

Yes, that would be significant working with minatures...I will try to keep water away from my larger stocks when working...using oils and alchol.

[Gulf Coast Handyman]

welcome to the forum

Dave