Forend iron question

[Virginia Hessler]

This may be simple to some, but I'm trying to do this right.
I'm fitting a forend to a different set of barrels. I can see how the iron wedges itself between the reciever and the stanchion soldered onto the barrels, but does not touch the barrel tubes at all.
Now add the wood. Should the wood have clearance on the tubes or should it rest on the tubes when installed ?
I am talking about a splinter forend.
Thanks for any advice, Tom

[Brian Dudley]

No one seams to want to offer any thought here.

Tom,
The Forend iron is fitted first. Tight against the back of the loop and also fully seated onto the loop. Then the toggle key is fitted to keep the iron in this position. Then the wood follows suit. The wood is fitted so that the previously fitted iron will install.

[Virginia Hessler]

Thanks Brian
Does the wood actually rest on the tubes when locked in place or is there a built in clearance to protect the wood from stress ?
Tom

[Brian Dudley]

It does usually contact the barrels in some areas. Commonly up by the end and on the sides.

[Virginia Hessler]

Got it thanks.