"GrouseGunner," I most enthusiastically third the previous recommendations of Paul Hodgins (tel.: 435-753-2796) as your gunstock maker of choice. I also commend to you another correspondent's suggested method of cognitively spreading the cost of restocking over whatever period of time you intend to use the gun as a sound way of considering cost versus benefit. The initial cost of restocking may be substantial, but that cost is then spread over the many years of service gun and a finely made (and fitted to your individualized measurements, do not forget) and finished stock will subsequently provide you. It is also vitally important that the chosen professional gun-stocker make the critical final selection of the wood slab from which he will shape, finish and chequer your stock(s).
Mr. Hodgin's quality work on my antique and vintage guns has been superb and faultless in every aspect. As well, his restoration work (wood and metal, by the way), though not the subject here, is equally so. He is an articled gunmaker (as is Kirk Merrington, also previously mentioned, tel.: 830-367-2937) and can perform all work associated with building, stocking, or repairing a gun or rifle.
Correspondent "Smallbore" (whose opinion I also highly respect) has personally seen an example of the restoration work (and of course seen other examples of his work too) Mr. Hodgins performs with respect to one of my high grade W. W. Greener guns, and therefore can rightfully attest, as he earlier did here, to the first quality of Mr. Hodgin's work. Most will not know that Mr. Merrington, who solely performs all my gun barrel work, whether smooth bore or rifled tubes, began his illustrious career as a gunstocker with, if memory serves, the firm of Churchill. My point is that when Mr. Merrington recommends someone to me within the same professional trade, his opinion definitely influences my decision concerning which peer should be seriously considered to perform work he himself does not undertake. And he recommends Mr. Hodgins.
Like many of this site's correspondents presumably, I admittedly am something of a perfectionist, and thus prefer to commission other professionals, artisans or craftsmen, to whom my hard-earned custom eventually will be remitted, who evince the same perfectionism, in order for me to ultimately realize the production of best quality work that meets my personal expectations. In that respect, Mr. Hodgins will not disappoint.
Good luck with your anticipated project! I know you will enjoy the 16-bore Holland & Holland 'Royal' that you currently have under consideration for purchase, if and once restocked. Which small bore, in my opinion and from direct experience afield, I have come to know as the nonpareil upland game gun bore. With my
Best regards,
Edwardian
