Eagle27, had a look at the photos and very well done - plugged with timber so they don't stand out in looks.

All,

I'm trying to grasp the mechanics of what is going on. Correct me if I'm wrong:

In recoil, the action metalwork will bend only a little bit. If bedded properly (at the front action screw) the timber will compress and deflect outwards (at the weakest point - the sides of the magazine well) as a result of force at the bedding point. The rear action screw does not provide any bedding support allowing the action metalwork to shift backwards in the timber (as it compresses). Lack of the tang "gap" will result in wedging and splitting the timber at that point.

The cross bolts are put at either side if the mag well to try and prevent bowing of the timber. What would be the purpose of the third cross bolt, effectively, in the wrist of the grip? Isn't the timber solid here?

I guess that, if there was insufficient clearance around the rear action screw and the stock, this could also cause splitting. Is this correct?

Does anyone have photos of stock failure where there were no cross bolts used at all?