Matching serial number non-cross bolt Stock & Buttplate.

[Planejack]

I have an issue.  I am building for display a late war Savage 80% non-shooter.  I have managed to collect all minty Savage metal parts, as well as a minty wood pistol grip and horizontal forearm.  However, the Buttstock that I have needed to be replaced with a better condition (NOS) Savage stock.  Upon attempting to use the metal Buttstock Plate from the older stock on a NOS Savage stock….it just didn’t fit.  When I looked closer at the back side and profile of the metal Buttstock Plate, surprisingly I noticed that the serial number matched with that of the wood stock!  So, my “Issue” is that I was told that the rear curved profile of some earlier (Non-Crossbolt) Stocks, is different (Flatter) than the NOS Savage wood stocks with Crossbolts often found still in the wrap.  So, is this true….and if so, I’d love to find (Maybe even trade) for a later war mint NOS Savage Buttplate (With Stamped parts) on its rear.    

[Planejack]

Here are some pics showing the side profile of the Buttstock rear.  The earlier one (With matching metal Buttplate) has a more pronounced curvature to its rear portion where the metal attaches.  This Buttplate will not conform to the “Flatter” less pronounced curve on many of the NOS Savage wood stocks that I’ve purchased.  So, might this need a late war more flat Buttplate with the stamped rear hinge mechanism?

[Planejack]

More pics

[BillyDixon]

so get a lead hammer and make it fit, works for me, just sayn

[inertord]

Have you attached the screws yet, buttplates will “flex” somewhat when tightened down.

[Planejack]

I have, but it’s pretty thick steel.  I decided to be “Correct” with the Crossbolt stock, I’d like to use the thinner late production Buttplate with the stamped Hinge mechanism for the oiler door.  

[Motorcar]

That matching set is pretty cool, that said those are pretty soft steel and can be contour bent to fit. I have wrapped them in a soft rag, put them in vise jaws loosely and gently applied pressure by hand in the direction I wanted for the change.

If you are still convinced you want the period stamped hinge and door plate, I have one we can work out trading or something. PM me if you want, I don't check everyday so be patient or maybe someone else has one to part with.

[Planejack]

I just sent you a PM

[TD.]

I have noticed over the years that the butt plates on the 1928 model World War II Thompson guns are not easily interchangeable. I have known several enthusiasts over the years that have purchased new in the wrap butt stocks from Numrich Arms and tried to fit the butt plate from their original well-used or poor condition 1928 butt stock. They ran into the same problems you are facing. It is generally not an easy bolt on job. 

[mbc230]

I have found that not one 1928 / M1 Buttplate will fit a newer Buttstock. In order to remedy the issue, I end up smoothing out the exposed area with sandpaper with the Buttplate attached, but I make sure to tape up the Buttplate in order to protect it from any damage from the sandpaper. Once shaped to my liking I then retreat the whole buttstock with Linseed oil. I have tried multiple NOS Buttstocks with multiple Buttplates and the same issue arises. When I did my first Buttstock I had the same experience you are having now. Just my experiences. Cheers!

[Planejack]

Thanks to all….especially you John!

[Rekraps]

How about some sandpaper instead? Modify the wood, not the metal.