What type of wood is primarily used for traditional gunstocks?

Walnut is primarily used for traditional gunstocks due to its desirable characteristics. This type of wood is known for its strength, durability, and resistance to warping, which are crucial for the structural integrity of a gunstock. Additionally, walnut has an attractive, rich color and fine grain that enhances the aesthetic appeal, making it a popular choice for both functional and decorative purposes. The combination of these physical properties helps in producing gunstocks that not only perform well but also look elegant.

In contrast, while maple and oak are also hardwoods used in various woodworking applications due to their sturdy nature, they lack the refined appearance and overall performance characteristics that walnut offers for gunstocks. Pine, being a softwood, does not have the necessary strength and durability required for this particular application, making it an unsuitable choice for gunstocks.