1903a3 S-Stock Bedding

Hey, all! I don't post often but I couldn't find this out after going through the forums a bit...

I realized my new to me S-Stock wasn't bedded correctly after using the lipstick trick (magority of the load was place on the curved surfaces at the rear of the stock wear the tang rests). I followed directions and used a suitablely round object as a backer and sanded bit by bit. The rifle is now making contact mainly on top of the front bedding block behind the recoil lug and the small section under the tang. The stock was already well relieved on the curved surface directly behind the tang so I didn't mess with it. After cleaning all the lipstick off and buttoning her up, I noticed a gap between the left side of the receiver and inside wall of the stock. Is there anything detrimental about this other than being a slight eye sore and triggering my OCD?

Any help/insight would be appreciated!

I attached a couple images so you can see what I'm talking about.

Update: I am able to slide a standard sheet of paper down the opening for about 1/2". Not sure if this info helps.

Is the gap an issue? The short answer is as long as you have good clamping pressure and the action isn't moving side to side then no, it's not a problem.

Thanks for the response! I dont feel any side-to-side play. Would it be possible to permanently swell that part of the stock with steam to close the gap, or should I not waist my time? I'm trying to avoid glass bedding.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by GeeOwn

Would it be possible to permanently swell that part of the stock with steam to close the gap

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No.....

Thanks for the help. I was hoping I could bring it back to flush, but I had feeling I wouldn't be able to.