Each and every gun is stocked completely by hand to the client’s bespoke measurements and specifications. The stocker firstly prepares the action to be let into the blank. Starting from a simple block of wood, the stocker inlets/’heads up’ the action using the traditional ‘smoke black’ technique, ensuring a perfect wood to metal fit – this technique is used throughout the whole gunmaking process. Once the action is in, the trigger-plate and internals can then be fitted. The ‘Make-off’ of the stock can then start. Each measurement is precisely carved out of the blank, using McKay Brown’s own gauges, the stock is made to continue the traditional shapes.

Once the stock has reached its final shape, it can then be hand chequered. To Continue McKay Brown’s tradition, the butt end is chequered at 16 Lines per inch (LPI), the hand is chequered at 18LPI which is a conventional coarse Scottish size to provide extra grip during cold and wet conditions, including the wearing of gloves. The stock is then ready to be oil finished.