Thanks M. Dorleac, I mirror Even's feelings about this forum, you all are absolutely outstanding. I have already gathered most of the parts (krieger, kepplinger trigger, 3-pos safety, etc.) and am about to order a blackburn bottom metal unit with the small oberndorf guard bow. A trap-door grip cap and NECG iron sights are all that are left on the list of metal parts. When the metal goes to the smith I plan to start the stock. What is the consensus here, do you prefer flat-top or traditional diamond checkering?