I haven't done a Ruger stock, but I've done a couple Tikka T3's. Agree with ohihunter on most points, especially taping off everything! My plan is nearly the same...strip everything off to bare stock, wipe down with alcohol to remove oils, tape off every screw hole, inset, etc, etc. and go for it! I've used primer on some and not on others and gotten great results both ways. One thing to keep in mind is going for a lighter color the dark stock could make your paint color darker, using a white primer with light colors gives a bit better result. The first couple I painted were camo but the last one I used Krylon fine stone texture paint. I used the tan color and the texture is a huge improvement over the smooth factory finish. I use a neoprene shell holder on the stock so there is no issue with the rough texture on my cheek and recoil. As for removing the paint, get it right the first time. I decided the first rifle I did I wanted to change about 6 months later. You're looking at sandpaper or acetone. Not wanting to damage the plastic with acetone I went with sandpaper and took the majority off, then reprimed and repainted. For stencils some of the best I found are pampas grass...a bundle of the grass rubber-banded and a couple of the flowers makes some neat patterns. Lots of pattern ideas online as well. Good luck!