Figured wood vs. strength

[Erzulis boat]

I would appreciate any input regarding the nature and equations relevant to stock thickness (wrist) versus caliber for highly figured woods to include cherry and ash.

Would it be foolish to build a .54 cal rifle with a "Vincent" or similar profile out of a HIGHLY figured stick?

Even if the grain is oriented properly in the wrist, are there some limitations within reason?

the "biggest" rifle that I have constructed from highly figured mahogany was a .45, and I plan on building a .54 with a pretty slim stock out of highly figured cherry, and would like some input.

Note- I have never built with cherry.

:thanks:

 

[rich pierce]

You'll love working with cherry. Don't worry about the figure as long as the grain is right and you don't use the gun as a club. All those broken muskets WERE used as clubs! My dad once broke a Lefever shotgun (with a very tiny wrist) bashing in a rabbit's head. Grain alignment is the most important factor.

 

[Erzulis boat]

Thanks Rich-

I am really looking forward to carving up this cherry!