Bought an aftermarket laminate stock for my Contender carbine. The grip is way too fat and doesn't feel right at all. Also way too thick where it mates to the frame.
Any advice before it take a set of files to it?
I've refinished a few stocks but have never reshaped one.

Only that while you are doing the rough shaping, you have to stop a bit short of how small you want it to be, because getting it smoothed out and ready for finish will remove some material too. This is especially important where wood meets metal.

While you are doing the rough cutting, give it a grip every now and then, to identify where you do, and do not want material removed as you go along. Take your time, do not get into a hurry.

Good luck, and don't forget to post a few pictures when you get it done to your satisfaction.

Some people hate to do stock work, but I find it to be very satisfying.

Thanks Charles. The area where the ears meet the rear of the frame are my biggest concern. I plan to mark a line on them leaving them a little thick in order to work them down to a taper with sand paper to better match the factory stock. I think the grip area will be much easier. I can feel where it needs to be reduced and can visualize where and how it needs to be cut.
I was really surprised how fat this thing is.
I'll try to remember to take pics as I go. It may be after deer season before I finish since this is for my 7-30 Waters. I just bought a 256 Winchester bbl for my blue frame and switched my factory stock over to it. Probably have to switch it back for the season and put the 256 on hold for now.

I've always been a fan of the .256 Winchester. It surprises me that it has not been more popular with 22, 5mm and 17 caliber wildcats to follow. The .357 mag and max cases seem ideal to me for single-shot varmint cartridges.

Did a couple when Fajen was still around and selling rough cut, inletted stocks. Very relaxing hobby and added pride when done. Still enjoying the Model 12 I did. Slow is good. P_102

I've reworked a synthetic stock using wood and body filler, but never a wood stock

Files? I have an extra 1 inch belt sander you can borrow.

Thanks Dave, but I'm sure I'd do more harm than good with a belt sander. A cabinet makers file will remove material pretty quick and more controllable.
I have a few leather projects I need to finish up before I start this so I can focus on it. I'm pretty confident I can pull it off going slow and easy.

Yes sir Charles, I think the 256 Winchester is a hoot. Shame it never caught on. I shot a lot from my pistol barrel and have been looking for this carbine barrel for a while. We have a large population of coons and fox and it is good medicine for them. A 256 Max is also interesting to me.