Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Review

Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

As someone who’s spent over a decade immersed in the world of outdoor and tactical gear, I’ve learned that the difference between a good tool and a great one often comes down to the details. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock promises to be just such a detail, a nuanced upgrade to a classic platform. It’s designed to enhance both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the Ruger 77 MKII, and I was eager to see if it lives up to the hype.

My old Ruger 77 MKII, a reliable companion on many hunts, was starting to show its age; the original stock felt worn and lacked the refined feel I desired. I wanted a stock that not only looked better but also improved my grip and overall shooting experience. I was specifically drawn to the promise of improved stability and the classic look of a hardwood stock.

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock arrived well-packaged and immediately impressed with its rich color and smooth finish. The weight felt balanced, and the laminated hardwood exuded quality. The fit and finish appeared excellent, hinting at a drop-in installation process.

I considered other options, including synthetic stocks from Hogue and laminate stocks from Ruger themselves, but ultimately the Boyds stock won me over with its balance of classic aesthetics, reasonable price point, and reputation for solid construction. The Boyds stock also promised a more traditional look than the more modern, tactical-style stocks on the market. I wanted something that honored the Ruger 77 MKII’s heritage.

My first impression was one of pleasant surprise; the stock exceeded my expectations in terms of visual appeal and perceived quality. It felt like a significant upgrade over the factory synthetic stock. It was a moment filled with anticipation, eager to feel how this new stock transformed the rifle.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock at my local shooting range and on a subsequent deer hunt in the Appalachian foothills. The range offered a controlled environment to assess accuracy and handling, while the hunt provided a real-world test of its performance in diverse conditions.

During the range session, the weather was clear and mild, allowing for comfortable shooting. The hunt, however, brought colder temperatures and some light rain. The Boyds stock maintained its grip and feel throughout both scenarios, although I was sure to wipe it down after exposure to moisture.

Installation was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a bit of patience. The drop-in fit was nearly perfect, with only minor adjustments needed to achieve a secure and wobble-free connection. The improved ergonomics were immediately noticeable, providing a more comfortable and stable shooting platform.

The only initial issue was a slight stiffness in the action after installation, which I attributed to the tighter fit of the new stock. This smoothed out after a few rounds and some light lubrication. The initial tightness was a small price to pay for the overall improvement in feel and stability.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock has proven to be a worthwhile upgrade. The laminated hardwood has held up well, showing no signs of cracking, warping, or fading despite exposure to varying temperatures and humidity levels.

Minor scratches and dings are inevitable with regular use, but the durable finish has protected the wood underneath. The stock has remained dimensionally stable, maintaining a consistent point of impact and reliable performance. Routine cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional application of a wood-protecting oil have kept it in excellent condition.

Compared to the original synthetic stock, the Boyds stock provides a noticeable improvement in stability, recoil absorption, and overall shooting comfort. The factory stock always felt somewhat hollow and lacking in substance. The Boyds stock provides a more solid and confident feel.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

Specifications

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is designed specifically for the Ruger 77 MKII Long Action rifle with a factory barrel profile. It’s crafted from laminated hardwood, providing a balance of strength, stability, and aesthetic appeal.

Here’s a breakdown:

• Manufacturer: Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks.
• Gun Type: Rifle.
• Gun Make: Ruger.
• Gun Model: Ruger M77 Mark II.
• Action Length: Long Action.
• Barrel Channel: Factory Barrel Channel.
• Finish: Finished (various color options available).
• Material: Laminated Hardwood.
• Features: Designed for “non-action” shooters, accommodates channel or tapered barrels, stress relieved for durability.

These specifications translate to improved accuracy, enhanced recoil management, and a more comfortable shooting experience. The laminated hardwood provides superior stability compared to synthetic stocks, reducing flex and improving consistency. The precise barrel channel ensures proper barrel support and minimizes vibration.

Performance & Functionality

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock excels in enhancing the Ruger 77 MKII’s overall performance. The improved ergonomics provide a more secure and comfortable grip. This leads to better control and accuracy.

The stock’s rigid construction dampens recoil, making it easier to maintain sight alignment and deliver follow-up shots. Its robust design can withstand the rigors of hunting and range use. The only area for potential improvement might be the addition of a more aggressive checkering pattern for even better grip in wet conditions.

The stock meets and, in some ways, exceeds expectations. It’s a significant upgrade in terms of aesthetics, feel, and stability, providing a more refined shooting experience. It transforms the Ruger 77 MKII from a utilitarian tool into a handsome and enjoyable rifle to shoot.

Design & Ergonomics

The stock’s design is classic and functional, with a comfortable grip and a well-defined cheek rest. The laminated hardwood provides a solid and substantial feel. It is ergonomically shaped to fit the hand and shoulder naturally.

The build quality is excellent, with tight tolerances and a smooth, even finish. The weight is well-balanced, contributing to improved stability and reduced felt recoil. There’s a slight learning curve in terms of getting used to the new grip and cheek weld, but it quickly becomes second nature.

Durability & Maintenance

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock is built to last, thanks to its laminated hardwood construction and durable finish. With proper care, it should provide many years of reliable service.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling. The stock is resistant to moisture and temperature changes, minimizing the risk of warping or cracking. The ease of maintenance is a significant advantage for those who spend a lot of time in the field.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock itself doesn’t come with additional accessories. However, it’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories designed for the Ruger 77 MKII.

These include:

• Aftermarket recoil pads (e.g., Limbsaver, Pachmayr).
• Sling swivel studs.
• Cheek risers.

Boyds also offers various finish and color options for their stocks. This allows for a degree of customization to suit individual preferences. The ability to easily add a quality recoil pad is a significant plus, especially for those shooting larger calibers.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock