Standard Grade Kibler Colonial Examples

[PathfinderNC]

Another lovely option is Cherry, which has beauty and warmth as well.

 

[sportster73hp]

I ordered the fancy my buddy the extra fancy. Both were nicely figured and i am not sure how the grading is done. Have seen pictures elsewhere showing his stocks and don’t think you will find one without any striping.
You also have the option of sending a piece of wood to him if you find something special

 

[Art Caputo]

I have only seen/handled a few Kibler Colonials with standard and fancy stocks. Add my own, a fancy(grade 2), it was difficult to discern all that much of a difference. I think Jim tries for a good degree of attractiveness and figure regardless of the grade, along with the difficulty to fully judge an unfinished blank. IMO, the method of finishing the stock can also effect the final appearance.
As to weight, I have both a 50 cal and 58 cal barrels for my Colonial. The 50 cal weighs 9.2 pounds, the 58 cal, 8.6 pounds. While only a half a pound difference, for my medium stature, the 58 feels “perfectly” balanced, the 50 cal is front heavy, and difficult to for me to hold steady for much more then 10 seconds for off-hand shooting. I will say that both barrels(GM-straight cut) are exceptionally accurate!

 

[bigted]

Were I to judge, looks like Jim's standard stocks are equal to others fancy stocks. Can not imagine what Jim's extra fancy must be like when properly finished.

Do not recall seeing anything from Kiblers that are anything but heirloom quality.
Makes TOTW standard stocks pale in comparison.