Beat Up Targets - any mods

[SW CQB 45]

I bought these SW Target Stocks yearsssss ago (listed as Service Grade) as a winter project (ha never got to them) and they are currently listed with a revolver I have for sale.

They appear to have been refinished and it has a flat spot on the left panel near the base (circled on the image)

both inset checkering area is flattened, and the right side is worse.

I bought the files from Brownells to clean up the checkering, but to me if the material is already flattened, would filing the lines deepen the inset further?

would deepening the checkering inset feel odd?

these stocks are heavily used/damaged and the keeping it factory looking is gone.

How would you "clean" these up, keeping in mind the grip feel, fit and cosmetics?

Does anyone on the forum modify Targets?

[chief38]

I'd recommend that you strip the old finish off with Acetone. Then chase the checkering with a checkering tool to deepen and freshen it up. The checkering should be like new again. Then I'd choose a finish for the grips and apply several light coats. Many like True oil, some stain them and then use 100% Tung Oil in multiple coats. While they do need some TLC, they are a good candidate for restoration.

[SW CQB 45]

I am sure there is video on it, but does one dunk the stock in a pool of acetone?

if so, by doing that.... no damage to the wood?

thanks for the info.

[chief38]

Originally Posted by SW CQB 45

I am sure there is video on it, but does one dunk the stock in a pool of acetone?

if so, by doing that.... no damage to the wood?

thanks for the info.

I have soaked them in Acetone before - no damage. I did not remove the S&W Medallion and there was no damage to that either. It did not take long to soften up the finish and I used a toothbrush to scrub it clean.

Definitely an outside job!!! Wear gloves and eye protection also.

[lihpster]

Since you've bought the tools, I think doing it yourself is the way to go. Even if you hash it up, which I doubt, you will at least have learned something. But in answer to your last question, Curt Harlow, 44magget on this site, does excellent restoration and custom work on grips. Unfortunately, he told me recently that he is about a year out on orders and the list keeps growing. So if you don't want to tackle it and can wait a while, Curt's your guy.
But like I said, I'd DIY it.

[Marksman]

+1 on Curt Harlow, excellent quality workmanship, reasonable price and turnaround time too !

[Engineer1911]

I would send the pictures to Masterbuck54 and ask his opinion. He has fixed some stock issues for me.