Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter Detachable Box Mag Short Action FBC
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter Detachable Box Mag Short Action FBC represents a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality. Crafted by Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, this stock aims to enhance the ergonomics and visual appeal of your Savage 16 rifle. Its Featherweight Thumbhole design and Forest Camo finish cater to hunters seeking both comfort and concealment.
I was looking to upgrade my Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter, which felt a bit utilitarian with its factory stock. I wanted something that offered a better grip, reduced weight, and a more personalized look. The Boyds stock promised all of these, and the detachable box magazine (DBM) compatibility was a definite plus.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the wood grain and the overall finish. The Forest Camo pattern looked great, and the wood felt solid and well-shaped. The thumbhole design seemed comfortable and naturally ergonomic.
Compared to a synthetic stock from Magpul or a laminate stock from Stocky’s Stocks, the Boyds stood out due to its classic wood construction and the unique thumbhole design. While the synthetic options are incredibly durable and weather-resistant, I prefer the feel and look of a traditional wood stock. The laminate options are great, but a good hardwood stock just feels… right.
My initial excitement was high. The stock looked even better in person than in the pictures, and the promise of improved ergonomics made me eager to get it mounted on my rifle.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter Detachable Box Mag Short Action FBC to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter Detachable Box Mag Short Action FBC at my local shooting range, followed by a deer hunting trip in the Pennsylvania woods. The range provided a controlled environment to assess its accuracy and comfort, while the hunt allowed me to evaluate its performance in a realistic field scenario. The weather during the hunt was variable, ranging from crisp, dry mornings to damp afternoons.
The Boyds stock immediately felt more comfortable than the factory stock. The thumbhole design provided a secure and natural grip, and the rifle shouldered smoothly. I noticed an improvement in my stability during offhand shooting. There were no immediate issues; the stock fit my Savage 16 perfectly.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter Detachable Box Mag Short Action FBC has held up admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, although I’ve been careful to protect it from excessive moisture and impacts. The wood finish remains intact, and the stock feels as solid as it did on day one.
Maintaining the stock is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use keeps it clean and prevents the wood from drying out. I occasionally use a wood-specific cleaner and conditioner to maintain the finish. Compared to my previous experience with a polymer stock, the Boyds requires a bit more care, but the aesthetic and ergonomic benefits are worth the extra effort.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter Detachable Box Mag Short Action FBC
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks.
- Gun Type: Rifle. This stock is specifically designed for rifles.
- Gun Make: Savage. It’s tailored for Savage rifles.
- Gun Model: Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter. Designed to fit the Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter model.
- Action Length: Short Action. For short action rifles.
- Additional Features: Finished. Comes pre-finished, ready for use.
- Fabric/Material: Wood. Made from hardwood.
These specifications are critical for ensuring proper fit and functionality. The short action configuration, for example, guarantees compatibility with the Savage 16’s action length. The wood construction offers a classic look and feel, while the finished surface protects the wood and enhances its aesthetic appeal.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter Detachable Box Mag Short Action FBC significantly enhances the rifle’s ergonomics and handling. The thumbhole design provides a secure grip, improving stability and control during shooting. My accuracy improved noticeably, especially during offhand shooting and in awkward hunting positions.
The stock’s primary strength is its comfortable and ergonomic design. The thumbhole allows for a more natural and relaxed grip, reducing fatigue during extended periods of carrying the rifle. The only minor weakness I observed is that wood stocks require more care than synthetic ones to prevent moisture damage. It definitely meets my expectations, providing both improved performance and a more visually appealing rifle.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The hardwood feels solid and durable, and the Forest Camo finish is well-applied. The weight is slightly heavier than the factory synthetic stock, but the improved ergonomics more than compensate for this difference.
The thumbhole design is incredibly user-friendly. There’s no learning curve; it feels natural and intuitive from the first time you pick up the rifle.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter Detachable Box Mag Short Action FBC should last for many years. Regular cleaning and conditioning of the wood will help prevent cracking and warping. Maintaining the stock is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter Detachable Box Mag Short Action FBC itself doesn’t come with accessories, but it’s compatible with standard Savage 16 scope mounts and slings. You can easily add a bipod, sling swivels, or a cheek riser to further customize the rifle.
Because it uses standard Savage 16 action dimensions, it’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket triggers and other components, allowing for further customization.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter Detachable Box Mag Short Action FBC
Pros
- Improved ergonomics and handling due to the thumbhole design.
- Enhanced accuracy, especially during offhand shooting.
- Aesthetically pleasing Forest Camo finish and classic wood construction.
- Compatibility with detachable box magazines (DBM).
- Solid and durable hardwood construction.
Cons
- Requires more maintenance than synthetic stocks to prevent moisture damage.
- Slightly heavier than factory synthetic stocks.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter Detachable Box Mag Short Action FBC?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter Detachable Box Mag Short Action FBC is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters who appreciate the feel and look of a traditional wood stock. If you prioritize ergonomics, improved handling, and a classic aesthetic, this stock is an excellent choice. It’s also ideal for those who want to upgrade their Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter to use detachable box magazines.
This stock might not be the best option for shooters who prioritize ultra-lightweight setups or those who frequently hunt in extremely wet or harsh conditions, as synthetic stocks would be more durable in those scenarios. It’s also not ideal for those who don’t want to spend time maintaining the finish.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality gun oil or wood conditioner to preserve the stock’s finish and prevent moisture damage.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter Detachable Box Mag Short Action FBC
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter Detachable Box Mag Short Action FBC is a well-crafted and aesthetically pleasing upgrade for the Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter rifle. The improved ergonomics, enhanced accuracy, and classic wood construction make it a worthwhile investment for hunters and shooters who value both performance and aesthetics. At $150.83, the price is justified given the quality of materials and the enhanced shooting experience it provides.
I would personally recommend the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Savage 16 Lightweight Hunter Detachable Box Mag Short Action FBC to anyone looking to improve the feel and performance of their Savage 16. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference a quality stock can make!