If going with a pad, I prefer the looks of a black pad on lighter English wood and red on darker colored walnut. I own some custom rifles but detail in this one makes it my favorite. Well done mullered borders add a lot of class to checkering IMO. I also like the sharp radii from the pistol grip into the bolt stop and bottom metal.

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I like the lean cheek piece.

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A better shot of the mullered borders.

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Here's a pre-war M70 with similar sharp radii from the grip into the action.

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Depending upon the wood I can go with or without an ebony forend tip but believe a steel (Fisher to my eyes) grip cap is a must. Good luck on your work.

Conduct is the best proof of character.