I got a Springfield 1903A3 with a replacement handguard - it is unfinished and a little bit thicker then the lower stock. Any recommendation for a wood expert that can sand a little down and match the stain of the lower stock? Dallas/Fort Worth Area
I'd encourage you to try this job yourself. Worst thing that could happen is you'd need a new handguard piece. Folks here can help talk you through the steps.
Mark depth you want to get to on side of handguard with pencil. Sneak up on that line.
Adhesive 2" wide 220 grit sandpaper roll- attach about 10 inch long piece to very flat board/scrap. Sand lengthwise. take it slow-every few strokes, check fitment. Skip power tools for safest but slower approach.
Staining- get few tiny cans gel stain and test spots on underside of handguard to get tone right. Might have to blend 2 colors of stain to get desired result