MOP STOCK REPAIR

[goatsnguns]

I have a nice pair of after market N Frame MOP stocks. The right panel has a stress fracture radiating from the escutcheon, but does not go through to the inside. I came up with the following solution to stabilize the right panel and strengthen the left panel. Most MOP stocks have a natural hollow in the inner center of the panels due to the shape and thickness of the abalone shells, this creates a weak area. I ground out two troughs perpendicular to the fracture and inserted small lengths of 1/16" drill rod. Next epoxy was spread to fill in the entire hollow area in each panel. I used modeling clay to seal off the screw holes. After a 48 hour cure, I filed the back of the panels flat & flush with the outer edges of the panels. To address the fracture on the front of the panel I applied extra thin wicking super glue and polished it even with the surface. The fracture is still visible, but you can not feel it with your fingernail. These Stocks are about 3/8" thick so I had plenty of thickness to work with. This repair went a little better than I had thought, I hope this idea might help someone else.

 

[chief38]

Good repair job! I would certainly wipe out any thoughts of actually firing the gun with them on it. Use them for display and you should be fine.

 

[goatsnguns]

Thanks Chief, I think these may be as strong or stronger than before the fracture. In my opinion over tightening the mounting screw has fractured more stocks that recoil.

 

[murphydog]

Nice job! The MOP production process apparently produced a lot of toxic dust so hopefully you wore your mask with the grinding. Most people have masks handy these days, for some reason.

 

[sigp220.45]

That is a very clever solution I would never have come up with. Thanks for sharing it, and I bet it holds up to shooting very well.

 

[goatsnguns]

Alan,

I did indeed use a mask and a fan to direct the dust away from me. We seem to have masks everywhere, sad sign of the times, but it is good to be protected.

 

[goatsnguns]

Fudd,

I tried these on a few of my older 44's and they are a few thousands smaller than the frame. This may be good as the frame will protect the edges of the stocks. I not sure if I will shoot with these stocks or not, I usually mount some Target stocks when I shoot.

Good Lord, I just looked at the middle photo, what a messy work bench, I'm a little embarrassed.