IBS Buttstock Dimension Rule Interpretation

[Harold M]

The rule for HV stock dimensions describes an imaginary line from a point 13 ¼ inches behind the trigger and 4 inches below boreline to a point on the barrel centerline 18 inches ahead of the bolt face.

How far above or below that line can the actual stock fall to be within the rule?

For example, if the actual stock toe is less than 4” below boreline at 13 ¼” behind the trigger, but the stock bottom edge does not pass over the imaginary line defined in the rule, is the stock legal? Also, if the actual stock toe is more than 4” below boreline, does the extended line of the bottom of the stock have to intersect the boreline nearer than a point 18 inches from the bolt face?

 

[Hunter]

You asked about the IBS rule. I'm not an expert on the matter; however, why would that keep me from offering my opinion? I read the rule on the IBS website and it reads similar to the NBRSA rule. If you'll look at page 99 of the NBRSA rulebook that might help. The way I understand the NBRSA rule is that the angle of the buttstock is the critical issue.

Applying my understanding of the NBRSA rule to your questions:

1. I don't think the location of the stock relative to the line is the issue; the critical thing is the angle of the buttstock.
2. It may or may not be (again, the angle is the issue); however, if it does intersect the line then it's not legal.
3. No.

 

[Wayne Shaw]

The dimensions shown are the minimum dimensions. It is easy to sketch out and see the angle. If you want MORE angle to the bottom of the butt end, that's OK, but you can't have less. The whole idea, as I understand it, is to not have a straight back recoil, the stock must fall or lower, in recoil.

There is nothing in the rules regarding the forend, other than it's width. Most stocks have a taper to the forend, but that is a weight reducing issue.

 

[mwezell]

Straight line stocks are a hot topic on the rimfire forums, right now. I feel they are worthwhile and that the stock rule limits us. I've never been a fan of rules, in general and would like to see this one dropped, but I doubt I'll live to see that.

 

[Dick Grosbier]

I've never been a fan of rules, in general and would like to see this one dropped, but I doubt I'll live to see that.

You still have plenty of time to find 24 additional IBS members who see it your way, and submit an agenda item to be discussed at the IBS annual meeting. One thing that is for sure, unless the idea is put on the meeting agenda it will remain unchanged.

Dick Grosbier
IBS VP

 

[mwezell]

You still have plenty of time to find 24 additional IBS members who see it your way, and submit an agenda item to be discussed at the IBS annual meeting. One thing that is for sure, unless the idea is put on the meeting agenda it will remain unchanged.

Dick Grosbier
IBS VP

Dick, thanks for pointing that out.
Any idea when the IBS will actually enact internet voting, which was voted on and passed by its members a couple of years ago? Until that happens, what I say relative to the IBS is simply my thoughts, not a proposal for change. I'll re-new my membership with IBS when the committee acts on this rule that was passed by it's membership. Is there some reason why it hasn't moved forward with putting this rule into practice?

 

[James M.]

George Kelbly, Sr. built a jig to test for compliance with the rule. If memory serves one must use a cleaning rod in the bore and test the angle from some distance from the bolt face (maybe 16") to a point below the toe of the stock. It has been a long time, but he checked my Scoville stock and told me that it was legal but was close to the minimum. I asked if he had found any that did not meet the rules and he answered in the affirmative. He was doing this as a courtesy and not as a referee. I have no idea if anyone has ever been disqualified for having too straight a buttstock. Maybe Mike Ezell has the right idea and we should modify the rules to something that is more reasonable and easier to check. Good shooting....James Mock

 

[mwezell]

George Kelbly, Sr. built a jig to test for compliance with the rule. If memory serves one must use a cleaning rod in the bore and test the angle from some distance from the bolt face (maybe 16") to a point below the toe of the stock. It has been a long time, but he checked my Scoville stock and told me that it was legal but was close to the minimum. I asked if he had found any that did not meet the rules and he answered in the affirmative. He was doing this as a courtesy and not as a referee. I have no idea if anyone has ever been disqualified for having too straight a buttstock. Maybe Mike Ezell has the right idea and we should modify the rules to something that is more reasonable and easier to check. Good shooting....James Mock

James, I didn't go into it, but I've never witnessed the rule enforced. A rule that isn't easily enforced in our game is a rule that needs to be re-evaluated, IMHO. I've heard that there may be several of the low profile stocks that may well be outside of this rule if bedding isn't done with this rule and a means of verifying it in mind.

 

[Dick Grosbier]

Any idea when the IBS will actually enact internet voting, which was voted on and passed by its members a couple of years ago

It was not a couple of years ago it was Jan 11. 2014.

And all that was passed was authorization for it to be done, not a timeline for it's implementation.