Let’s Dive into Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock promises to be a significant upgrade for Savage B-Mag owners seeking improved ergonomics and aesthetics. Coming from Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, a company known for crafting quality aftermarket stocks, this model boasts a thumbhole design and hardwood construction, aiming to enhance both comfort and rifle handling. At a price point of $175.99, it positions itself as a mid-range option, balancing affordability with enhanced features.
My trusty Savage B-Mag, while accurate, always felt a bit lacking in the stock department; the factory polymer felt cheap and offered a less-than-ideal grip. I specifically needed a stock that would enhance stability and accuracy for longer shots on varmints and small game.
Upon unboxing the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock, I was immediately impressed by the smooth finish and the evident quality of the hardwood. The thumbhole felt natural in my hand, promising a more secure and comfortable shooting experience. The weight felt noticeably lighter than the factory stock, but still solid enough to inspire confidence in its durability.
Compared to the Hogue Overmolded Rifle Stock (polymer with a rubberized coating) or the Manners Composite Stocks (high-end, very expensive), the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock struck a good balance. The Hogue lacks the refined look and feel, while the Manners stock is overkill for a .17 WSM rifle. I chose this Boyds stock hoping for a sweet spot of enhanced performance without breaking the bank.
My first impression was excitement mixed with cautious optimism; the stock looked great, felt good in my hands, and seemed well-built. However, the true test would be how it performs in the field and holds up over time.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock at my local shooting range and during a weekend varmint hunt in the high desert of Nevada. The range provided controlled conditions, while the hunt exposed the stock to temperature fluctuations and dusty environments. The thumbhole design offered a significant improvement in grip and stability, especially when shooting from a rest.
The Nevada desert presented varied weather, from sunny mornings to cold, windy evenings. Even with gloved hands, the hardwood maintained a comfortable grip, and the stock showed no signs of warping or discoloration due to the temperature changes. Installation was straightforward, although a slight amount of fitting was needed for perfect alignment.
It took me about an hour to fully get used to the new thumbhole configuration and the slightly different cheek weld required. After that, I noticed improved accuracy, especially on longer-range shots. The initial range session revealed no issues, but the desert environment would provide a more realistic test.
During the hunt, the only minor issue was dust accumulating in the thumbhole area, which required occasional cleaning to maintain a secure grip. Otherwise, the stock performed flawlessly, providing a comfortable and stable platform for accurate shooting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock has held up exceptionally well. There are no cracks, splits, or signs of structural weakness. The finish remains smooth and consistent, despite exposure to various weather conditions.
The only noticeable wear and tear is some slight scratching on the finish, primarily around the action area, due to normal use and handling. However, these are purely cosmetic and do not affect the stock’s performance or integrity. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional application of gunstock wax keeps it looking its best.
Compared to my previous experiences with polymer stocks, this Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock offers superior comfort, stability, and aesthetic appeal. It significantly enhances the overall shooting experience and boosts my confidence in the rifle’s accuracy and reliability. The improvement over the factory Savage B-Mag stock is night and day.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock is specifically designed for the Savage B-Mag short action rifle. Its construction utilizes authentic hardwood, known for its strength and aesthetic appeal. The stock also features a fiberglass-reinforced high-strength core, providing added durability and stability.
- Manufacturer: Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks
- Gun Model: Savage B.Mag
- Action Type: Short Action
- Material: Hardwood with fiberglass-reinforced core.
- Design: Featherweight thumbhole
- Customization: Compatible with aftermarket recoil pads and wood floor spacers.
These specifications are important because they contribute directly to the stock’s performance and user experience. The hardwood construction provides a solid and comfortable grip, while the thumbhole design promotes improved stability and accuracy. The fiberglass reinforcement enhances durability, ensuring the stock can withstand the rigors of regular use.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock significantly enhances the overall performance and functionality of the Savage B-Mag. Its improved ergonomics and stability contribute to increased accuracy and reduced recoil. The thumbhole design provides a more secure and comfortable grip, especially when shooting offhand or from unconventional positions.
The stock’s strengths lie in its enhanced ergonomics, solid construction, and aesthetic appeal. One potential area for improvement could be the inclusion of a factory-installed recoil pad, as the stock ships without one. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations, providing a noticeable upgrade over the factory stock.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both aesthetics and ergonomics. The hardwood construction provides a classic and appealing look, while the thumbhole design enhances grip and stability. The stock is relatively lightweight, making it comfortable to carry for extended periods.
The stock is user-friendly, requiring minimal adjustment to the shooting style. While the thumbhole design might take some getting used to for shooters unfamiliar with this configuration, the benefits in terms of grip and stability are well worth the learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock is built to last, thanks to its hardwood construction and fiberglass-reinforced core. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. The stock is easy to clean and maintain, requiring only a damp cloth and occasional application of gunstock wax.
Repairing minor scratches or dings is relatively straightforward, using common woodworking techniques and materials. However, more significant damage might require professional repair or replacement.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock is compatible with a range of accessories and customization options. These include aftermarket recoil pads, which can be easily installed to further reduce felt recoil. Custom wood floor spacers can also be added for a more personalized look and feel.
The stock is also compatible with most standard scope bases and rings designed for the Savage B-Mag. This allows users to easily mount their preferred optics for enhanced accuracy and range.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock
Pros
- Significantly improved ergonomics and grip compared to the factory stock.
- Enhanced stability and accuracy, especially for longer-range shots.
- Durable hardwood construction with fiberglass-reinforced core for long-lasting performance.
- Attractive thumbhole design adds a custom look and feel to the rifle.
- Relatively easy to install, requiring minimal fitting.
Cons
- Does not include a factory-installed recoil pad, requiring an additional purchase.
- The thumbhole design might not be comfortable for all shooters.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock is perfect for Savage B-Mag owners looking to upgrade their rifle’s ergonomics, accuracy, and aesthetics. It’s an excellent choice for varmint hunters, small game hunters, and recreational shooters seeking a more comfortable and stable shooting platform. Anyone looking to improve the overall feel and performance of their B-Mag will appreciate this stock.
Those who prefer a traditional stock design or are not comfortable with a thumbhole configuration might want to skip this product. Also, shooters on a very tight budget might find the price a bit high, although the improved performance and durability make it a worthwhile investment in the long run.
A must-have accessory is a quality recoil pad, such as a Limbsaver or Pachmayr, to further reduce felt recoil and enhance shooting comfort.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock is a well-designed and well-built aftermarket stock that significantly enhances the performance and aesthetics of the Savage B-Mag rifle. Its improved ergonomics, durable construction, and attractive thumbhole design make it a worthwhile upgrade for serious shooters.
At $175.99, the price is justified by the enhanced performance, durability, and aesthetic appeal it provides. It is a solid mid-range option that delivers excellent value for the money.
I would personally recommend the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage B-Mag Short Action Rifle Stock to any Savage B-Mag owner looking to improve their shooting experience. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference a quality stock can make!