Well on a Mauser it should be metal on metal when tightening the action screws.If there is a mushy tightening then it is not bedded properly.The front lug of the action should be tight with the insert of the magazine and the rear should both be tightened to the metal sleeve insert in the stock.I have seen problems arise when this sleeve is omitted when a rifle is restocked.I seal all of my wood stocks with a few coats of varnish and have never had a problem with them and I hunt in all conditions.My Dad and I have lived and hunted in Montana ,Alaska and Afrika our entire life and have NEVER had a problem with a wood stock.But of course we know how to maintain them