I have to ask: how were ebony forend tips applied originally? I don't think dowels were used...the rifles I've examined (late 19th and very early 20th century British work) showed a tenon carved onto the end of the stock, and a mortice cut into the forend tip. It's a similar arrangement to putting a brass muzzlecap on a Kentucky rifle - same principle. The two that I've done followed this style.
I used a heavy, strong cut of hide glue on one, (the gun has been rained on without issue) and epoxy on the other because the customer specifically asked for it.
Steven - I'd be curious to hear your input on this. I think the dowel rod arrangement, although fine, is later mid 20th century work, and American, am I right? How far back have you seen dowel rods go in your experience?
