Thanks a lot for the great input!
I'm currently still on the taping-, adding&rasping route and developed a basic idea at least about the proper dimensions. I'm evaluating the possibilities of a copy-turned blank but starting from scratch with an inletted blank will also be an option, just for all the fun involved. The planning goes for a future project, so there's plenty of time for gathering more information.
For the academic understanding of stock fitting, I completely agree; nothing beats trial and error. Mike Campbell's pictures certainly tell more than just reading some chapters and comparing angles.
It's true that adjusting the shooting stance can sometimes make a big difference. What I figured out so far is the need for a length of pull a tad over 15", length of trigger pull around 4" together with a rather steep grip angle and a parallel comb, drop around 1 ½ ". Regarding cast and pitch, I'm still experimenting.
I like the nautical approach to stock dimensions. No doubt about the importance of keeping the head on the stock and keeping it (the head, erh...) erect simultaneously, something to drive some novices crazy if no one cares to tell them at the same time that the neck will act as the adjusting link between the head and the stock.
I will have a look at the mentioned books.
