How to Steam a Dent Out of a Wood Rifle Stock

Whether you’re out in the field chasing whitetail or spending time at the bench dialing in your load, dings and dents in your rifle stock can happen. The good news? If the damage is just a compression of the wood fibers (not a gouge or chip), there’s a time-tested fix: steam.

At Redleg Guns, we’re all about helping you preserve the precision and beauty of your firearms. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to steam a dent out of a wood stock using tools you likely already have at home or in your shop.

What You’ll Need

• A clean cloth (cotton works best)

• Water

• An iron or soldering iron

• Sandpaper (optional – 600 to 800 grit for finishing touches)

• Patience and a steady hand

Step 1: Inspect the Dent

Before starting, make sure the dent is just a compression and not a deep scratch or chip. Steam only works on compressed wood fibers—it won’t fill in missing material. If the finish is intact, it may need to be removed from the area around the dent to allow the steam to penetrate the wood.

If you're working with a custom or heirloom rifle, or you're unsure about the finish, it’s worth giving us a call to avoid accidental damage.

Step 2: Moisten the Dent

Dampen your cloth with clean water and lay it directly over the dent. You want the wood beneath to absorb moisture, which will expand the fibers.

Pro tip: You can also apply a few drops of water directly to the dent and let it soak for a few minutes before covering it with the cloth.

Step 3: Apply Heat

With your iron on a medium setting (no steam), press it onto the damp cloth over the dent. Hold it for about 10-20 seconds at a time, then lift and check your progress. Repeat as needed.

The heat turns the water into steam, which penetrates the wood and causes the compressed fibers to swell back to their original shape.

⚠️ Important: Keep the iron moving slightly and avoid overheating one spot—too much heat can scorch the wood or damage adjacent finish.

Step 4: Let It Dry

Once the dent has risen back up, let the stock dry completely. The wood may feel a bit raised or rough depending on the finish or how deep the dent was. That’s normal.

Step 5: Sand and Refinish (If Needed)

If the area feels slightly raised, use fine grit sandpaper (600–800 grit) to lightly smooth it out. If you removed finish earlier, now’s the time to touch it up using your preferred method—oil, wax, or polyurethane, depending on the stock.

When It’s Time to Call in a Pro

Not all stock damage can be steamed out. Deep gouges, cracks, or older wood with brittle finishes may need a different approach. That’s where we come in.

At Redleg Guns, we offer stock restoration, repair, and refinishing services. Whether you're dealing with a classic hunting rifle, a competition setup, or a sentimental piece, we’ll help bring it back to life—with care, precision, and craftsmanship you can trust.

Got a stock that needs some love?

Give us a call at (507) 677-6007 or schedule an appointment through our website. Let’s keep your rifle running—and looking—like the day you fell in love with it.