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Rifle bedding is a gunsmithing process of providing a rigid and consistent foundation for a rifle’s operational components, by creating a stable and close-fitting bearing surface between the gun's functional parts (i.e. the receiver housing the barrelled action) and its structural support (i.e. the stock) that do not deform with heat, pressure and moisture, or shift under the shear stress of the recoil from firing. The bedding process is often an aftermarket modification, and is done for the goal of accurizing the rifle and (to a lesser extent) prolonging the service life of the stock.