Walnut Rifle Stocks

by
posted on May 14, 2014
qa_ah2015_fs.jpg (43)

undefinedQ: Is there any real difference between rifle stocks made of American walnut and those made of French walnut, besides cost?

A: Worldwide, there are some 50 species of walnut (genus Juglans). In addition, many other species are mistakenly called walnut. In terms of walnut best suited for gunstocks, most is taken from three species: Juglans regia (Circassian, English or French walnut; also many other types), Juglans nigra (American, Eastern and Oregon black walnut) and Juglans hindsii (California black, claro and Hinds walnut). Also suitable for high-grade stocks, but very rare, is Bastogne walnut, a hybrid of Juglans regia and Juglans hindsii.

Most favorite of these is Juglans regia (Circassian, English or French), which in Latin means “royal walnut.” This species originated in Asia, but has been transplanted widely trough Europe and the Americas, resulting in many sub classifications that exhibit slight differences in color and figure resulting from variations in growing conditions. All woods of this species, however, have a fine, dense grain, excellent hardness and workability, high strength and shock resistance, good stability, and appealing grain and figure.

Juglans nigra (American, Eastern and Oregon black walnut) is the name for varieties of true black walnut. Juglans hindsii (California black, claro and Hinds walnut), collectively known as claro walnut, is very similar in properties to the Juglans regia varieties, though it is both slightly weaker and not as shock resistant as the Cirassian or Bastogne varieties. Black and claro walnut are also known for their distinctive grain and figure.

Latest

LEDE Case On White
LEDE Case On White

New for 2025: Gritr 47-Inch Hard Rifle Case

Gritr has launched its 47-inch Hard Rifle Case, for shooters looking for portable security and protection for their firearm. 

Know How: Walking-Up Winter Rabbits

Bryce Towsley offers his readers some tips and tricks on wintertime rabbit hunting.

Member's Hunt: "The Big Rifle," Winchester Model 1895

This latest Member's Hunt comes from Ken Eason of Bethany, Okla.

First Look: Blocker Outdoors’ Finisher Pro II Turkey Vest

Blocker Outdoors has introduced its Finisher Pro II Turkey Vest, to help hunters concisely and comfortably manage essential hunting tools.

Recipe: Hunter's Onion Soup

Follow along as Brad Fenson explains the ancient origins and his specific take on this hearty dish.

Henry Repeating Arms CEO Honors IHEA’s NY State Instructor of the Year

Henry Repeating Arms Founder and CEO Anthony Imperato recently honored Ralf Hartmann as the International Hunter Education Association (IHEA) New York State Instructor of the Year, recognizing his contributions to hunter education and firearm safety.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.