q:who does checkering and knurling

[noway]

Does anybody know of a rifle shop that just offers specialize checkering other than http://www.classiccheckering.com/ ?


Same for knurling, I want to get about 4 bolt handles balls knurl and haven't found anybody that has done this or offers this. I saw a Tikka with this done and then the bolt handle was powder coated black. Makes for a cool looking rifle and reliable feel on the knob.

[eisman]

First you have to decide what you want. Knurling is a machine process where the metal is moved by passes of a die. This is very difficult to do on a bolt handle after it is attached to the bolt. (And harder yet when it's not at a straight 90% angle.)

Checkering is the removal of metal and much more time intensive. It is pure handwork, and the laying out of the pattern alone usually takes an hour or more. The shop I used to work in charged $120 to do two panels and $180 for three ten years ago. That does not include refinishing the bolt. It's a pain, and any mistake is very obvious.

A fair number of the guys I've known who did that type of work also were pretty good engravers.

If there's somebody out there who's got a good reputation for the work I'd suggest having them do it.