The Remington Wingmaster 12 gauge is a legendary shotgun, prized for its reliability and robust construction. A significant part of its appeal lies in its stock, which plays a crucial role in the gun's overall handling, accuracy, and shooter comfort. This guide will delve into various aspects of the Remington Wingmaster 12 gauge stock, from understanding its features to exploring options for replacement and customization.
Understanding the Remington Wingmaster Stock
The original Wingmaster stock is typically made from walnut, known for its strength, durability, and attractive grain patterns. These stocks are often characterized by a classic design, featuring a straight comb and a relatively moderate drop at the heel and comb. This design is favored by many for its versatility, suitable for a variety of shooting styles, including trap, skeet, and field shooting. However, the “fit” of the stock is highly personal, and what works perfectly for one shooter might be uncomfortable for another.
Key Features of the Wingmaster Stock:
- Material: Traditionally walnut, though later models may have used other hardwoods or synthetic materials.
- Finish: Typically a high-gloss oil finish, providing protection and enhancing the wood's natural beauty.
- Drop at Comb and Heel: These measurements (the vertical distance from the receiver to the comb and heel, respectively) determine how the gun mounts to the shoulder. These dimensions vary slightly depending on the specific model and year of manufacture.
- Cast: The stock's cast refers to its lateral offset. A right-handed shooter might prefer a right-hand cast to better align the stock with their cheek and eye.
- Length of Pull (LOP): This measures the distance from the trigger to the buttpad. The LOP greatly affects how the gun feels and shoots. A properly fitted LOP is critical for comfortable and accurate shooting.
Replacing or Upgrading Your Wingmaster Stock
Over time, a Wingmaster stock might show wear and tear, or a shooter might desire a different style or fit. Fortunately, several options exist for replacing or upgrading the stock:
Finding Replacement Stocks:
- Remington Parts: Remington itself might offer replacement stocks, but availability can vary depending on the specific model and age of your shotgun. It's always best to check directly with Remington or an authorized dealer.
- Aftermarket Manufacturers: Numerous companies specialize in producing aftermarket stocks for classic shotguns like the Wingmaster. These stocks often offer different materials (synthetic, laminate, etc.), finishes, and configurations (adjustable comb, adjustable LOP). Researching reputable manufacturers is key to ensuring quality and fit.
- Used Gun Parts Market: Online marketplaces and gun shows frequently offer used Wingmaster stocks. This option can be more affordable, but requires careful inspection to ensure the stock is in good condition and free of damage.
Customizing Your Wingmaster Stock
For a truly personalized fit and feel, many shooters choose to customize their Wingmaster stock. This can involve:
Stock Refinishing:
A professional gunsmith can refinish a worn or damaged stock, restoring its beauty and protecting the wood.
Stock Bedding:
Bedding the stock improves the action's fit within the stock, leading to enhanced accuracy. This is a more advanced process best left to experienced gunsmiths.
Adding a Recoil Pad:
A recoil pad absorbs recoil, making the shotgun more comfortable to shoot. There is a wide variety of recoil pads available in different materials and thicknesses.
Conclusion: The Heart of Your Wingmaster
The stock of your Remington Wingmaster 12 gauge is far more than just a piece of wood or synthetic material; it's a critical component that directly impacts your shooting experience. Understanding your stock's features, exploring replacement options, and considering customization can dramatically improve your comfort, accuracy, and enjoyment of this classic shotgun. Remember to always consult with experienced gunsmiths for more complex modifications or repairs.
