Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock is a replacement stock designed for the venerable Enfield P-17 rifle. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, a well-known manufacturer of aftermarket gunstocks, offers this Pro Varmint model as a way to modernize and improve the accuracy potential of this classic military firearm. Featuring a black textured paint finish and a varmint-style profile, this stock aims to provide a more stable and comfortable shooting platform than the original military stock.
My journey to this particular stock started with a rescued Enfield P-17. The original stock was heavily worn and lacking the rigidity necessary for consistent accuracy, especially considering my intent to use the rifle for longer-range target shooting and potentially even some light varmint hunting. I needed a solution that would provide a more stable platform and improve the rifle’s overall handling.
Upon unboxing, the stock felt solid and well-made. The black textured paint provided a surprisingly comfortable grip. The initial build quality seemed excellent, with a noticeable improvement in rigidity compared to the original stock.
I considered options from other manufacturers like Numrich Gun Parts, but the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint stock stood out due to its modern design and the reputation of Boyds for producing quality hardwood stocks at a reasonable price. The deciding factor was the combination of the varmint-style profile and the textured finish, which promised better stability and handling. My first impression was one of excitement and anticipation; I was eager to see how this stock would transform the rifle’s performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on accuracy at 100 and 200 yards. The weather was clear and mild, ideal for testing the stock’s impact on the rifle’s overall performance. The new stock provided a noticeable improvement in stability while shooting from a bench rest.
The stock allowed for a much more consistent cheek weld and improved trigger control due to the enhanced ergonomics. I did not experience any immediate issues after the first use, and the rifle felt noticeably more balanced with the Boyds stock.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock has held up remarkably well. I have put roughly 500 rounds through the rifle since installing the stock. There are no visible signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scuffs.
Maintenance has been simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each range session is typically all that’s needed. Compared to my previous experiences with the original military stock, the Boyds stock offers a significantly more stable and comfortable shooting experience, resulting in tighter groupings and improved overall accuracy.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks
- Gun Type: Rifle
- Gun Make: Lee-Enfield
- Gun Model: Enfield M1917
- Color: Black
These specifications clearly define the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock as a specific replacement part for the Enfield M1917 rifle. The black color provides a neutral and tactical aesthetic, making it a versatile option for various shooting applications.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock significantly improves the rifle’s overall performance. The varmint-style design provides a more stable platform for accurate shooting, particularly when using a scope or bipod. The stock excels in providing a consistent and comfortable shooting experience.
One strength is the improved ergonomics, which facilitate better trigger control and reduced felt recoil. The primary weakness is the lack of adjustability in the cheek rest, which may not be ideal for all users and scope heights. It exceeded my expectations by turning my old rifle into a very capable and enjoyable shooting platform.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock is impressive, with a solid hardwood construction. The black textured paint offers a comfortable and secure grip. The stock is designed to be user-friendly and easy to install.
While the installation process may require some minor fitting depending on the specific rifle, it is generally straightforward. The stock balances well with the Enfield action and barrel, making it comfortable to hold and shoot for extended periods.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardwood construction and textured paint finish of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock suggest good long-term durability. The stock is easy to maintain, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap if needed. With proper care, the stock should last for many years of use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock does not come with any accessories beyond the stock itself. However, it is compatible with various aftermarket accessories designed for the Enfield P-17 rifle, such as scope mounts, bipods, and slings. While Boyds doesn’t offer specific customization options beyond color choices for some of their stocks, users can explore aftermarket solutions to further tailor the stock to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock
Pros
- Improved Accuracy: The varmint-style design provides a more stable platform for accurate shooting.
- Enhanced Ergonomics: The stock offers a more comfortable and secure grip, improving trigger control and reducing felt recoil.
- Durable Construction: The hardwood construction and textured paint finish ensure long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: The stock is designed for straightforward installation, minimizing the need for gunsmithing services.
- Modern Aesthetics: The black textured paint gives the rifle a contemporary and tactical look.
Cons
- Lack of Adjustability: The cheek rest is not adjustable, potentially limiting its suitability for some users and scope setups.
- May Require Minor Fitting: Some rifles may require minor fitting during installation for optimal performance.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock is perfect for Enfield P-17 owners looking to improve the accuracy and handling of their rifle for target shooting or varmint hunting. It’s also ideal for collectors who want to modernize their classic firearm without permanently altering the original components. This stock is a great choice for those who want a more stable and comfortable shooting platform.
This product may not be suitable for those seeking a historically accurate restoration, as the varmint-style design deviates from the original military configuration. Also, shooters requiring an adjustable cheek rest for optimal scope alignment may need to explore other options. A must-have accessory would be a quality scope mount designed for the Enfield P-17, allowing users to fully leverage the accuracy potential of the new stock.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock
Overall, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Enfield? P-17 Military Barrel Channel Stock is a worthwhile upgrade for Enfield P-17 owners seeking to enhance the performance and handling of their rifle. The price of $199.99 is justified given the improved accuracy, enhanced ergonomics, and durable construction. I would personally recommend this stock to anyone looking to breathe new life into their Enfield P-17. If you’re ready to transform your Enfield P-17 into a more accurate and enjoyable shooting platform, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint stock is an excellent choice.