Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel is a testament to blending classic aesthetics with modern functionality. Manufactured by Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, this stock is designed for Remington 700 short action rifles and features a left-hand stock configuration for right-hand actions, specifically accommodating a factory barrel channel. It’s designed to give a new life and improved ergonomics to a trusted platform.
I’ve always appreciated the classic look and feel of a well-crafted hardwood stock, but the factory synthetic stock on my Remington 700 left me wanting more. The plastic felt cheap and lacked the solid connection I desired for accurate shooting and the synthetic did not manage recoil effectively. I needed a stock that provided both a solid foundation for consistent accuracy and the classic aesthetic I admired; I wanted to feel connected to my rifle.
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter arrived well-packaged, showcasing the wood’s natural grain. Lifting the stock from the box, the weight immediately spoke of quality; a significant upgrade from the factory synthetic. The finish was smooth and even, and the inletting appeared precise, promising a snug fit for my action.
I considered stocks from McMillan and HS Precision, known for their composite builds, but the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter offered something they didn’t: a traditional feel at a more accessible price point. I needed that solid, connected feel that only wood provides. I was excited to install it on my rifle and see how it performed in the field.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism; the stock looked beautiful, but the true test would be how it felt and functioned with my rifle. I was eager to see if it would transform my shooting experience into a seamless operation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test occurred at my local shooting range, under fairly ideal conditions – clear skies and a comfortable temperature. I mounted my Remington 700 action into the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter with relative ease and used a torque wrench on the action screws. The stock immediately felt more stable and balanced compared to the factory polymer stock.
The improved ergonomics were noticeable as I settled into my shooting position; the slender forend fit comfortably in my support hand, and the higher comb provided a better cheek weld with my scope. Recoil felt noticeably reduced, which allowed for quicker follow-up shots. After the initial shots, I noticed the point of impact was slightly different than with the original stock, but this was easily remedied with a quick scope adjustment.
There were no issues during the first range visit, but the need to adjust the scope highlighted the fact that any stock change requires re-zeroing. I also appreciated the positive feedback and compliments from other shooters at the range who admired the classic look of the wood stock.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. The stock has seen multiple range trips and a deer hunt in moderately wet conditions. The wood finish has held up well, showing no signs of warping or cracking despite exposure to some moisture.
Cleaning has been simple, requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. The finish seems resistant to most common gun cleaning solvents. Compared to my experience with other aftermarket stocks, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter has provided a significant improvement in both feel and function.
The improved recoil absorption and enhanced ergonomics have translated into tighter groupings at the range and more confident shots in the field. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock has exceeded my initial expectations and transformed my Remington 700 into a truly enjoyable rifle to shoot.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks
- Gun Type: Rifle
- Gun Make: Remington
- Gun Model: Remington Model 700
- Action Length: Short Action
- Hand: Left (Stock) / Right (Action) – This is for left-handed shooters using a right-handed action.
- Additional Features: Finished
- Barrel Channel: Factory Barrel Channel – Designed to accommodate the standard Remington 700 barrel profile.
- Floor Plate: 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate – Requires a Remington 700 action with a one-piece hinged floor plate.
- Material: Hardwood – Provides a classic look and solid feel.
- Bedding Block: Full Length – Ensures consistent action-to-stock contact for improved accuracy.
These specifications matter because they dictate the compatibility and performance of the stock with your rifle. The short action specification means this stock is specifically designed for Remington 700 rifles with a short action receiver. The left-hand stock/right-hand action configuration caters to left-handed shooters using a standard right-handed action.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter excels at providing a stable and ergonomic platform for the Remington 700 action. Its full-length bedding block ensures consistent contact between the action and the stock, which significantly enhances accuracy. The factory barrel channel is perfectly inletted for a standard Remington 700 barrel, eliminating the need for additional fitting.
The slender design provides a comfortable grip and improved handling, while the enhanced ergonomics contribute to better recoil management. The stock is a direct replacement for the factory stock, making installation relatively simple for anyone with basic gunsmithing knowledge. The main weakness of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter is it requires a Remington 700 with a one-piece hinged floor plate; actions that do not have this part must be upgraded.
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter has met and exceeded my expectations as a significant upgrade over the factory synthetic stock. It has improved my accuracy, enhanced my comfort, and added a touch of classic elegance to my Remington 700.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter is crafted from high-quality hardwood, giving it a solid and substantial feel. The finish is smooth and aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the rifle’s overall appearance. The stock’s weight adds stability without making the rifle feel cumbersome or unwieldy.
The slender design and comfortable grip make the stock very user-friendly, even for extended shooting sessions. The improved cheek weld provided by the higher comb is a significant ergonomic advantage. The overall design of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter feels natural and intuitive, with little to no learning curve for experienced shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its hardwood construction and durable finish, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter is built to last. The finish appears to be resistant to scratches and abrasions, ensuring the stock maintains its appearance over time. The maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap.
The finish seems to repel moisture, minimizing the risk of warping or cracking in humid conditions. With proper care, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but its compatibility with the Remington 700 platform opens up a wide range of customization options. Users can easily add aftermarket recoil pads, cheek risers, and sling swivel studs to tailor the stock to their specific needs. The stock is compatible with most standard Remington 700 scope mounts and bipods.
The full-length bedding block ensures that any accuracy-enhancing accessories, such as pillar bedding, can be easily installed. It is important to note that this particular stock requires a one-piece hinged floor plate, which may require an additional purchase and installation if your Remington 700 doesn’t already have one.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
Pros
- Significant Accuracy Improvement: The full-length bedding block ensures consistent action-to-stock contact, resulting in tighter groupings.
- Enhanced Ergonomics: The slender design and comfortable grip provide improved handling and reduced recoil.
- Classic Aesthetic: The hardwood construction and smooth finish add a touch of elegance to the Remington 700.
- Durable Construction: The hardwood and finish are designed to withstand the rigors of field use.
- Direct Replacement: Easy to install as a direct replacement for the factory stock, requiring minimal gunsmithing knowledge.
Cons
- Requires Remington 700 action with a one-piece hinged floor plate; must be purchased separately if the rifle does not have one.
- Wood, while durable, is more susceptible to damage from extreme moisture and impacts compared to synthetic stocks.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter is perfect for left-handed shooters using a right-handed Remington 700 short action rifle who want to improve accuracy, ergonomics, and aesthetics. It’s ideal for hunters and target shooters looking for a classic look and feel without sacrificing modern performance. Anyone looking to upgrade from a factory synthetic stock will appreciate the solid feel and improved handling of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter.
This product is not for shooters who need a lightweight stock, or those who frequently operate in extremely harsh environments where synthetic materials are preferable. Anyone unwilling to install a one-piece hinged floor plate to their Remington 700 should also avoid this product. A must-have modification would be a high-quality recoil pad to further enhance shooting comfort.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel offers an exceptional blend of classic aesthetics and modern performance. The value proposition is excellent, as it provides a significant upgrade in accuracy, ergonomics, and appearance for a reasonable price. The investment in this stock will enhance any Remington 700.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter to any left-handed shooter looking to transform their Remington 700 into a truly enjoyable and accurate rifle. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference!