Recoil Pad Question/problem

W

WindLaker

Inactive
I'm installing a "Decellerator" recoil pad on my deer rifle. I'm not using a jig.

I used a disk sander to get the rough shape. Switched to a sanding block w/ 150 sandpaper for fine-tuning. I'm now using a vibrating sander to finish it off.

My problem is this. The base of the recoil pad is a perfect fit, perfectly smooth. The softer part is kind of "mushroomed" out...it has a larger diameter than the base.

Whazzup with this?

Thanks in advance for your help.

WindLaker
 
Since the softer rubber moves when you try to cut it and the hard rubber backing plate actually cuts, this is entirely normal. Use packing tape to protect the stock of the gun (it is hard to cut and will show scuffs if you get too close with the sandpaper). Use 60 to 100 grit until the pad is cut down to the size you want it to be, then finish sand the backing plate with 150 grit to remove marks.
 
Windlaker,
Saw a tip once about putting a recoil pad in the freezer to stiffen it before sanding it to fit. Supposed to reduce the "mushrooming" effect. Never tried that trick myself. I use 8" file for the final sanding of soft pad sides.
 
Did the freezer thing, same result. The soft part did not harden up hard enough to sand properly. I did sand the minute it came out of the freezer.

I tried the Dremel tool...very difficult to get a smooth, even finish. Since the freezer didn't work, I think I'm forced back to the Dremel.

I'm open to any other ideas.

Thanks,

WindLaker
 
I JUST did one of these myself about a week ago and I found that a good and sharp file worked well to cut the softer rubber ... forget about using an orbital sander as it doesn't have sufficient stroke to actually get the softer material to cut ... it just wiggles it around while it cuts the harder materials around it :eek: . I found that fresh sandpaper on a block also worked, but the file really got it done for me.

Saands
 
I have installed some regular Pachmeyr pads on my rifles. I put a couple layers of masking tape on the stock to protect it and I use a Dremmel with a grinding barrel on it. I have not tried this on a soft recoil pad.
 
I've done a couple of hundred pads. The real key? Buy the jig from Brownells, and set it op on your disc sander. Use a 60 grit pad, which will cut the soft pad materials with ease (not to mention my knuckles).

It's one of those jobs that sticks out like a sore thumb if you mess up. Take your time.
 
Saands,

Went the file route...it's working pretty good. Thanks.

What I've done is take off the high spots with the Dremel, then file, then a sanding block. I'm about 90% done.

I never thought it would be this much work. It's looking good, though.

WindLaker
 
Glad to be of some help ... I too was AMAZED at how much work was required to get it done right ... I can see how the right tool would make short work of the job, though.

Saands
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top