Stock hardware installation question

[Blueheeler 0]

I am setting up a repro stock-what is the reccommended size to drill the holes for the trigger guard,  butt plate and sling swivel screws? Thanks!

[butch 0]

I just recently modified a sporter stock and used a 7/64" bit for the sling swivel screw holes. I think ideally a small tapered bit would be better. For the the  buttplate I used  a 5/32" bit. The buttplate screws I used are actually for a 1903 springfield. I dont know if they are the same as what was actually used, but they work fine. They really do not have a deep thread that bites in so you have to be careful when putting them in the first time so that you dont strip the wood out, especially in the end grain. Dont ask me how I know that. Use some wax or soap to lube them a little if they seem tight or turn especially hard. You may have to work them in and out a little at a time. Trigger guard screw would be same as the swivel screws. Take your time, if the wood is especially hard you may need to drill slightly larger. There are charts available through online search that show drill sizes for wood screws, usually smaller for softwoods and larger for hardwood.