Nomenclature question

[GreyWhiskers]

While viewing descriptions of flint rifle kits, I came upon the names of a couple stock parts that I'm not familiar with. A stock was described as having "sideplates that are flat and very narrow. With a pronounced arch under the edge,". What part of the stock are they referring to? :hmm:

 

[rich pierce]

They are referring to the off side opposite the lock and the profile of the lock panel there.

 

[GreyWhiskers]

Would the "arch under the edge" refer to the wood where the sideplates meet the bottom of the stock? Thanks.

 

[paulvallandigham]

NO. The arch describes the shape of the sideplate, to distinquish if from one that is rectangular in shape.

 

[dlemaster]

Paul is right on, and flat means the side plate is inletted level with the surface of the wood. Indicating it isn't a beveled side plate that stands slightly above the level of the wood.

Regards, Dave

 

[GreyWhiskers]

Much thanks. :grin:

 

[Vaino]

The sideplate that you described would more than likely be for a later rifle. The flush inletting and bowed underbelly would denote this......Fred

 

[mikelange]

FWIW -- something about the way the original question was worded gives me the impression that Grey Whiskers might not have been sure what a sideplate actually is -- not merely where it's located. Just to clarify that, not to insult anyone's intelligence -- a sideplate is a flat piece of metal, taking various shapes and usually made of the same material as the buttplate, triggerguard, and other hardware, that serves as a glorified single washer or pair of washers for the bolt(s) that pass through the stock and hold the lock in place. It isn't part of the stock per se. The shape and size of sideplates is one of the factors considered when attempting to determine the age of an original long gun.

 

[GreyWhiskers]

Mongrel,

You hit it right on the head. I thought the sidelate was an area of the stock. Something about the original description I read lead me down the wrong path. :hmm:

I fired up the MLF to learn just these kind of things. I'll be the 1st to admit there is a lot about front stuffers that I don't know. So thanks for the help.