Glass bedding a rifle stock significantly enhances accuracy by providing a solid, consistent interface between the action and the stock. While traditionally used with wood stocks, the process is equally beneficial for synthetic stocks, offering improved rigidity and eliminating inconsistencies that can affect shot placement. This guide delves into the intricacies of glass bedding a synthetic rifle stock, outlining the process, benefits, and considerations.
Understanding the Benefits of Glass Bedding a Synthetic Stock
Synthetic stocks, while durable and weather-resistant, can suffer from inconsistencies in their manufacturing process. These inconsistencies can create air pockets or flex points between the action and the stock, leading to variations in point of impact. Glass bedding eliminates these problems.
- Increased Accuracy: By creating a rigid, one-piece structure, glass bedding eliminates stock flex and inconsistent bedding pressure, resulting in significantly improved accuracy. This is especially noticeable at longer ranges.
- Improved Consistency: A consistently bedded action ensures repeatable shot groups, reducing the variables that affect accuracy. This leads to more predictable performance and less frustration for the shooter.
- Enhanced Vibration Dampening: The glass bedding compound acts as a dampener, absorbing vibrations that can negatively impact accuracy. This is particularly important for high-powered rifles.
- Protection Against Stock Damage: Glass bedding provides a protective layer between the action and the stock, safeguarding against potential damage from impacts or stress.
Case Study: A competitive shooter using a Remington 700 with a synthetic stock experienced significant improvements in accuracy after glass bedding. Their average group size at 100 yards decreased from 1.5 MOA to under 0.75 MOA. This improvement highlights the potential impact of proper bedding on accuracy.
Preparing Your Synthetic Stock for Glass Bedding
Before beginning, gather the necessary tools and materials:
- Glass bedding compound: Choose a high-quality compound designed for firearm applications.
- Release agent: This prevents the bedding compound from sticking to surfaces you don't want it to adhere to.
- Mixing containers and tools: Use disposable containers and tools suitable for mixing epoxy.
- Files, sandpaper, and other shaping tools: For final shaping and smoothing of the bedded area.
- Acetone or other cleaning solvent: For cleaning the stock and action.
- Safety glasses and gloves: Essential for working with epoxy and solvents.
- Inletting tools (optional): These may be required for modifying the stock inletting if necessary.
Step-by-step preparation:
- Thorough Cleaning: Carefully clean the action and the inletting area of the stock with acetone to remove any grease, oil, or dirt. Allow to completely dry.
- Applying Release Agent: Apply a thin, even coat of release agent to all areas of the stock you don't want the bedding compound to adhere to. This usually includes the trigger group area and any areas where the action moves.
- Masking: Use masking tape to protect areas you don't want to be affected by the bedding compound.
- Initial Fitting (if necessary): If the action doesn't fit snugly, you may need to adjust the inletting using inletting tools. This should be done carefully and precisely to ensure a proper fit.
The Glass Bedding Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
The glass bedding process involves mixing the epoxy and carefully applying it to the action and inletting area of the stock.
- Mixing the Compound: Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions for mixing the glass bedding compound. Accurate mixing is crucial for proper curing.
- Applying the Compound: Apply the mixed compound evenly to the action, ensuring complete coverage of all contact surfaces. You can use a syringe or other tool to apply the compound to tighter areas.
- Inserting the Action: Carefully insert the action into the stock, ensuring proper alignment. Use clamps or weights to hold it firmly in place while the compound cures.
- Curing: Allow the compound to cure completely according to the manufacturer's instructions. This usually takes 24-48 hours.
- Post-Curing Finishing: After the compound has fully cured, remove any excess material using files, sandpaper, and other shaping tools. Ensure a smooth, even surface for optimal performance.
Post-Bedding Evaluation and Refinement
After the glass bedding process is complete, it's crucial to verify the quality of the bedding job. This involves checking for:
- Proper Action Alignment: Ensure the action is properly centered and aligned within the stock.
- Smooth Bedding Surface: The bedding surface should be smooth and free of any irregularities.
- No Gaps or Void Areas: Check for any gaps or voids between the action and the bedding compound. Any voids should be carefully filled and re-cured.
Troubleshooting: If problems arise, such as uneven bedding or gaps, carefully remove the compound, clean the surfaces, and repeat the process. Precision and attention to detail are essential for a successful outcome.
Conclusion: The Lasting Impact of Glass Bedding
Glass bedding a synthetic rifle stock is a worthwhile investment for any shooter seeking improved accuracy and consistency. While the process requires patience and attention to detail, the resulting enhancements in performance are significant. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully glass bed your synthetic stock and unlock the full potential of your rifle. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult relevant resources for further guidance.