order of operations.

[Sean E Bug]

I am building my first non kit rifle. I have inlet the barrel, lock, and trigger plate. I am wondering should i drill the holes for the barrel tenons now or after I shape the stock. I read recreating the Pennsylvania long rifle but now that I have a question I cant seem to find it. it can probably be done either way, but I would like to avoid chipping out the wood or doing layout on a curved surface.

 

[billraby]

Drill holes before shaping the stock. Right now everything is square.

 

[frankie]

I agree with Bill. Also if you put a piece of (tan) paper tape over the area you are going to drill (press the tape down firmly) it will help to stop the wood from chipping.

 

[Secesh]

Wise words from billraby and frankie. Take your time and drill slowly. Best of luck on your build. I expect to see a photo trail? Mighten we?

 

[Conquerordie]

Yup it can be done either way. If your stock is in the square, I'd do it now, but take off the excess material on either side of the barrel, not to final dimension, but to lessen the wood you have to drill through. Easier to drill an accurate hole through less wood, than thicker. Less chance of the bit wandering.

 

[Sean E Bug]

thank you all for the advice. going to mark the holes and tape the other side. farmer I might post a few photos when I am done. just don't want to create a blind leading the lost kind of situation if anybody decides to fallow my lead. this is a picture of when I soldered the barrel and hooked tang together for inletting.