Which tool is essential for achieving a smooth finish on a gunstock replacement piece?

A belt or disc sander is essential for achieving a smooth finish on a gunstock replacement piece due to its ability to quickly remove material and shape the surface efficiently. This tool allows for a combination of coarse and fine sanding, enabling woodworkers to not only smooth out any rough spots but also to refine the contours of the stock for comfort and aesthetics. The belt sander can be particularly advantageous for larger surfaces, while the disc sander is excellent for edges and detailed areas.

Using a belt or disc sander helps to ensure a uniform finish that is crucial for both functionality and visual appeal in a gunstock. The ability to quickly change the grit of sandpaper also allows users to achieve the desired level of smoothness before moving on to finer sanding techniques or finishing products. While other tools may be valuable in constructing or shaping a gunstock, the belt or disc sander is specifically tailored for the finishing process, making it indispensable for this task.