Pair of William Evans Shotguns – Spot the difference

Question: What do you do when you have a pair of shotguns and one stock breaks? Answer: Get a new stock made to match perfectly!

A challenging pair

It seems obvious when I write it here. The truth is, many people who find themselves with a broken half of a pair are simply unsure of what is possible when it comes to mending the problem – or even unaware that creating a brand new stock from scratch could be the better solution!

I do like a challenge, and that’s what it seemed like when a client brought this next project to me. He had a pair of William Evans shotguns, one stock unfortunately broken. When I saw them I knew that this stock needed to be completely replaced. Despite that I was determined to hand him a good-as-new matched pair by the end of the job.

Finding a match

If you scroll to the gallery below, the first photo shows the original two stocks side by side. Sadly the bottom stock had been completely smashed through the wrist.

As you can see, the good one at the top has some rather attractive striping. I went through my library of English Walnut blanks and, much to my delight, found a piece that was perfect. That’s the blank shown in the first photo below the original pair. A huge bit of luck, as it turned out an even better match than Mr Evans had previously achieved!

Finishing touches

The rest of the photos in the gallery tell the story from now on, so feel free to browse through them. You’ll see the blank gradually take shape and come to life.

I always do a linseed finish. This involves rubbing in several coats by hand (mixed with some Terebine paint drier) and letting each layer dry in between. The length of the process really depends on the piece of wood I’m using at the time. Some are more porous than others and will take a lot more oil. It’s a slow process – and sometimes even I struggle with the level of patience required – but it always pays off in the end.

I was very proud of the final result and the client was pleased too. Take a look at the last photo of the pair side by side again – can you tell which is the new stock…?

Do you own a pair of guns that could do with some attention? Or perhaps you have a similar situation where one is broken beyond repair and you’d like a new made to match? Even if you’re simply unsure of what could be achieved and would like to have a chat, feel free to send me a message via the contact form below.

You can also call me on 07979 606175 or send an email to greg@gunstockrestoration.co.uk