Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock offers a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality for Winchester 670 owners. This aftermarket stock aims to improve the rifle’s handling, accuracy, and overall look with its laminated hardwood construction and ergonomic design. It is manufactured by Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, a company renowned for providing quality stocks at reasonable prices.
My own journey to discovering this stock started with a common problem: a cracked and worn factory stock on my trusted old Winchester 670. I needed a replacement that was both durable and aesthetically pleasing, without breaking the bank. After researching various options, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter stood out due to its positive reviews and promise of a drop-in fit.
Unboxing the stock was a pleasant surprise; the laminated hardwood felt solid and well-finished. The weight felt balanced, suggesting a potential improvement in handling over the original synthetic stock. I immediately noted the clean lines and the pre-inletted barrel channel, indicating a straightforward installation process.
Compared to some other aftermarket stocks I considered, like the more expensive composite options from McMillan or the adjustable stocks from Magpul (which wouldn’t fit my specific model), the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter offered the best balance of affordability and classic appeal. I was initially excited by the prospect of restoring my rifle’s look and feel to its former glory while potentially improving its accuracy. Time would tell if it lived up to my expectations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, a familiar environment where I could accurately assess the impact of the new stock. The weather was typical for early spring: slightly damp with a light breeze. Installation was surprisingly easy; the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter truly lived up to its “drop-in” claim, requiring only minor adjustments for a perfect fit.
The immediate difference was noticeable in the rifle’s balance. The added weight of the hardwood stock seemed to stabilize the rifle during aiming, reducing wobble and improving my sight picture. Recoil felt slightly reduced as well, likely due to the increased weight and better distribution of force across my shoulder. After the first few shots, it became clear that I did not need significant time to adjust to the new stock, and felt as though I was operating a familiar tool.
The only initial issue was a slight stiffness in the action, which I attributed to the tighter fit of the new stock. I planned to address this with some lubrication and further use.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, primarily for target practice and some varmint hunting, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter has proven to be a reliable upgrade. There are only minor signs of wear and tear, mostly superficial scratches from bumping against branches in the field. The laminated hardwood has held up well, showing no signs of cracking or warping despite exposure to varying weather conditions.
Maintaining the stock has been simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and a light coat of furniture polish. Compared to my previous experiences with synthetic stocks, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter offers a more refined and comfortable shooting experience, with a noticeable improvement in accuracy and recoil management. I have been consistently impressed with its ability to outperform my factory stock.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is specifically designed for the Winchester 670 rifle with a long action and without a floor plate. The stock is constructed from laminated hardwood, offering enhanced durability and stability compared to traditional wood stocks. It comes with a factory barrel channel, meaning it’s designed to fit the original barrel dimensions without requiring significant modification.
Key specifications include:
- Material: Laminated Hardwood.
- Action Length: Long Action.
- Fit: Winchester 670.
- Floor Plate: No Floor Plate.
- Barrel Channel: Factory Barrel Channel.
- Finish: Finished.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The laminated hardwood provides superior resistance to warping and cracking, ensuring consistent accuracy over time. The specific action length and barrel channel ensure a proper fit, which is essential for safety and optimal performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock excels in enhancing the rifle’s overall performance. The improved balance and ergonomics contribute to increased accuracy, especially during sustained fire. The solid construction reduces felt recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
- Strengths: Improved accuracy, reduced recoil, enhanced ergonomics, and a classic aesthetic.
- Weaknesses: The laminated hardwood may be slightly heavier than synthetic alternatives. The factory barrel channel might require minor fitting depending on the specific rifle.
- Expectations: The stock meets and even exceeds expectations, providing a noticeable upgrade over the factory stock.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter features a classic design with a comfortable grip and a well-shaped cheek rest. The build quality is excellent, with tight tolerances and a smooth finish. The weight adds to the rifle’s stability, making it easier to hold steady during aiming.
The stock is user-friendly, requiring minimal effort to install and adjust. There is no significant learning curve, and most shooters will find it comfortable and intuitive to use.
Durability & Maintenance
The laminated hardwood construction ensures that the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and polishing.
The stock is resistant to most common wear and tear, including scratches, dents, and minor impacts. Repairing minor damage is relatively easy, thanks to the durable nature of the laminated hardwood.
Accessories and Customization Options
While the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories, it is compatible with standard Winchester 670 scope mounts and sling swivels. Customization options include bedding the action for even greater accuracy and adding a recoil pad for enhanced comfort. The stock’s classic design also lends itself well to custom paint jobs or checkering.
Many popular aftermarket accessories from brands like Leupold, Weaver, and Harris Bipods are compatible with the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter. This allows shooters to further personalize and optimize their rifle to their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Pros
- Enhanced Accuracy: The improved balance and stability contribute to tighter groupings.
- Reduced Recoil: The added weight of the hardwood stock helps to absorb recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot.
- Durable Construction: Laminated hardwood is resistant to warping, cracking, and other forms of damage.
- Easy Installation: The “drop-in” design requires minimal fitting and adjustment.
- Classic Aesthetic: The traditional hardwood look enhances the overall appearance of the rifle.
Cons
- Weight: Laminated hardwood is heavier than synthetic alternatives, which may be a concern for some shooters.
- Fitting: While generally a “drop-in” fit, minor fitting may be required depending on the specific rifle.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters who own a Winchester 670 and want to upgrade their rifle’s stock. It is an excellent choice for those seeking improved accuracy, reduced recoil, and a classic aesthetic. It is also well suited to those who value durability and ease of installation.
Those who should skip this product are shooters who prioritize lightweight rifles above all else. Also, shooters who require highly adjustable stocks with advanced features might find this product lacking.
Must-have accessories or modifications: a quality scope mount, sling swivels, and potentially bedding the action for even greater accuracy.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
In summary, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is a well-designed and affordable upgrade for Winchester 670 owners. Its combination of enhanced accuracy, reduced recoil, and durable construction makes it a worthwhile investment. The value proposition is excellent, providing a significant improvement over the factory stock at a reasonable price.
I personally recommend this stock to anyone looking to restore or upgrade their Winchester 670. Its blend of classic aesthetics and modern performance makes it a standout choice. If you’re ready to take your Winchester 670 to the next level, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter is an excellent place to start.