Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter DBM Short Action LH Stk RH Act FBC
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter DBM Short Action LH Stk RH Act FBC is a replacement stock designed to breathe new life into your Savage 16 rifle. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks is known for producing quality, affordable hardwood stocks. This particular model aims to provide a lightweight and ergonomic upgrade for left-handed shooters using a right-handed action.
For years, I wrestled with the factory synthetic stock on my Savage 16, finding it lacking in both feel and aesthetics. I wanted something that felt more natural in my hands, provided a more stable shooting platform, and looked good doing it. The Boyds stock promised a solution, offering a classic wood look with modern features like a detachable box magazine (DBM) inlet.
Upon receiving the stock, I was immediately struck by the quality of the wood and the finish. The Forest Camo pattern was well-applied, and the stock felt solid in my hands. The build quality appeared excellent, with no visible flaws or imperfections.
I considered other options, including laminated stocks from Brownells and synthetic stocks from Magpul. However, I was drawn to the Boyds stock for its combination of traditional aesthetics and modern functionality, plus the price point was very compelling. I was excited to see if it would live up to my expectations and transform my rifle into the accurate and beautiful piece I envisioned.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter DBM Short Action LH Stk RH Act FBC to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, where I focused on zeroing my rifle and assessing the stock’s impact on accuracy and handling. The weather was clear and mild, providing ideal conditions for shooting. Installing the action into the Boyds stock was surprisingly straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a few minutes of my time.
The most immediate difference was the improved feel of the rifle. The Boyds stock provided a much more comfortable and natural grip compared to the factory synthetic stock. The rifle felt more balanced, and I noticed a slight improvement in accuracy, likely due to the increased stability.
One minor issue I encountered was the fit of my existing DBM magazines; they were a little tight initially, but after a few uses, they seated more smoothly. This was a minor inconvenience, but otherwise, the first range session was a resounding success.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter DBM Short Action LH Stk RH Act FBC has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. I’ve taken it on several hunting trips in varying conditions, from dry and dusty to wet and muddy, and it has held up admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear.
I clean the stock regularly with a mild wood cleaner and apply a light coat of gunstock wax to protect the finish. This simple maintenance routine has kept the stock looking and performing like new. Compared to my previous experiences with synthetic stocks, the Boyds stock offers a superior feel and a more personalized shooting experience. It has definitely exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter DBM Short Action LH Stk RH Act FBC
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks. Boyds is a well-known manufacturer of aftermarket gunstocks, offering a wide range of styles and options.
- Gun Type: Rifle. This stock is specifically designed for rifles.
- Gun Make: Savage. The stock is inletted for Savage rifles.
- Gun Model: Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter. It’s designed to fit the Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter model.
- Action Length: Short Action. This stock is designed for short action Savage rifles.
- Additional Features: Finished. This means the stock comes pre-finished and ready to install.
- Fabric/Material: Wood. The stock is made from hardwood.
- Configuration: Prairie Hunter Thumbhole. The Thumbhole provides a comfortable and secure grip.
- Magazine Compatibility: Detachable Box Magazine (DBM). Inleted for use with rifles that utilize DBM magazines.
- Hand Orientation: Left Hand Stock, Right Hand Action. Designed for left-handed shooters using a right-handed action rifle.
- Barrel Channel: Factory Barrel Channel (FBC). Designed for factory barrel contours.
- Finish: Forest Camo. Features a camouflage pattern.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate compatibility and performance. The correct action length and barrel channel ensure a proper fit, while the left-hand stock/right-hand action configuration accommodates left-handed shooters using right-handed actions.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter DBM Short Action LH Stk RH Act FBC performs its job admirably by providing a stable, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing platform for the Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter. It offers a noticeable improvement in handling and perceived accuracy compared to the factory stock. The thumbhole design enhances grip and control.
Its strengths lie in its comfortable ergonomics, solid construction, and attractive finish. A potential area for improvement could be the magazine well fit, as some magazines might require slight adjustment for smooth operation. Ultimately, it meets and even exceeds expectations for an aftermarket rifle stock in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Boyds stock is impressive, utilizing solid hardwood and a durable finish. Its weight is comparable to, or slightly lighter than, the factory synthetic stock, contributing to a balanced feel. The thumbhole design is exceptionally comfortable, providing a secure and ergonomic grip that enhances control and reduces fatigue.
The installation process is user-friendly, requiring only basic tools and minimal gunsmithing skills. The drop-in fit simplifies the upgrade.
Durability & Maintenance
Given proper care, the Boyds stock is expected to last for many years. The hardwood construction is resistant to typical wear and tear, and the finish is durable enough to withstand harsh weather conditions. Regular cleaning and occasional application of gunstock wax will help maintain its appearance and protect the wood from moisture.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only basic cleaning supplies. The stock is designed for easy disassembly, making cleaning and maintenance tasks manageable for the average shooter.
Accessories and Customization Options
The stock itself doesn’t come with accessories, but its design allows for compatibility with standard Savage 16 accessories, such as scope mounts and slings. The Forest Camo finish limits some aesthetic customization, but the stock can be refinished or painted to suit individual preferences.
The stock readily accepts standard Savage 16 DBM magazines. The Boyds stock is compatible with various aftermarket recoil pads, allowing shooters to further customize the rifle’s ergonomics and reduce felt recoil.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter DBM Short Action LH Stk RH Act FBC
Pros
- Enhanced Ergonomics: The thumbhole design provides a comfortable and secure grip, improving control and reducing fatigue.
- Improved Aesthetics: The Forest Camo finish and hardwood construction offer a classic and attractive appearance.
- Increased Stability: The solid construction and improved balance contribute to more stable and accurate shooting.
- Easy Installation: The drop-in design allows for straightforward installation with basic tools.
- Affordable Upgrade: Offers a significant improvement over the factory stock at a reasonable price point.
Cons
- Magazine Fit: Some DBM magazines may require slight adjustment for smooth operation.
- Finish Limitations: The Forest Camo finish limits some aesthetic customization options.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter DBM Short Action LH Stk RH Act FBC?
This stock is perfect for left-handed hunters and sport shooters who own a right-handed action Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter rifle and want to upgrade from a factory synthetic stock. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking improved ergonomics, aesthetics, and stability without breaking the bank. It’s also ideal for individuals who appreciate the classic look and feel of a wood stock.
This product might not be suitable for individuals who require a fully adjustable stock or those who prefer the lightweight and weather-resistant properties of synthetic materials. Those unwilling to perform minor fitting adjustments to ensure smooth magazine operation may also want to consider other options.
A must-have accessory would be a quality set of gunsmithing screwdrivers to ensure proper torque when installing the action. A good gunstock wax will help protect and maintain the wood finish.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter DBM Short Action LH Stk RH Act FBC
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter DBM Short Action LH Stk RH Act FBC is a worthwhile upgrade that significantly enhances the shooting experience with the Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter rifle. It combines classic aesthetics with modern functionality, providing a comfortable, stable, and attractive platform.
The price is certainly justified by the quality of materials and the noticeable improvement in handling and accuracy. I would definitely recommend this stock to any left-handed Savage 16 owner looking for an affordable and effective upgrade. Take your Savage 16 to the next level; give it the Boyds treatment and rediscover the joy of shooting!