Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC is more than just a replacement stock; it’s a potential upgrade that can dramatically improve the feel and performance of your rifle. Designed for the left-handed shooter with a Thompson Center Compass short action rifle that uses a detachable box magazine, this Featherweight Thumbhole stock combines classic aesthetics with modern ergonomics. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks promise of quality and fit is what makes this stock interesting, particularly the specified “Factory Barrel Channel,” suggesting a drop-in fit that requires minimal gunsmithing.
I’ve been tinkering with rifles for over a decade, always searching for that perfect fit and feel. My biggest challenge has always been finding quality left-handed options. This stock piqued my interest because of the combination of the thumbhole design and the promise of a precise fit for a popular rifle model, which is something that often requires custom work.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the richness of the nutmeg finish. The wood felt solid and well-shaped, with a comfortable texture that hinted at hours of comfortable shooting.
I considered options from McMillan and Stocky’s, but the price point of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC made it a compelling choice. Custom stocks can run into the hundreds, sometimes thousands, of dollars, and I was hoping for a more budget-friendly, yet still high-quality, upgrade. My first impression was excitement mixed with a bit of cautious optimism – hoping that the fit and feel would live up to expectations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC at my local shooting range, as well as on a recent varmint hunt in the high desert. Conditions ranged from sunny and mild to windy and dusty. The thumbhole design immediately improved my grip and felt more stable.
The ergonomics were a significant upgrade over the factory stock. I found that I could shoulder the rifle more quickly and consistently, especially when transitioning between different shooting positions. There was a slight learning curve with the thumbhole, but after an hour, it felt very natural. No immediate issues or surprises presented themselves.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use and roughly 200 rounds downrange, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC continues to impress. The finish has held up well, showing no signs of chipping or scratching despite being bumped around in the field. Cleaning is simple, mostly involving wiping down the stock with a damp cloth.
Compared to my previous experiences with polymer stocks, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock provides a more solid and stable shooting platform. It absorbs recoil slightly better and inspires greater confidence in my shot placement. The improved ergonomics have led to tighter groupings at longer ranges. It definitely outperforms my expectations for a stock at this price point.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC
Specifications
Manufacturer: Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks.
Gun Type: Rifle.
Gun Model: Thompson/Center Compass. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC is specifically designed for this rifle, ensuring a precise fit.
Action Length: Short Action. This is crucial for compatibility; ensure your rifle is a short action.
Additional Features: Finished. The nutmeg finish adds a touch of class and provides a protective layer to the wood.
Fabric/Material: Wood. The hardwood construction offers a durable and aesthetically pleasing upgrade over synthetic stocks.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate compatibility and overall performance. The short action designation ensures a correct fit, while the hardwood material impacts durability and recoil absorption.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC significantly enhances the shooting experience with a Thompson Center Compass. The thumbhole design promotes a more natural and secure grip, which translates to improved accuracy.
One of the biggest strengths is the drop-in fit, requiring minimal gunsmithing for installation. A potential weakness is that wood stocks can be susceptible to changes in humidity, although the finish helps mitigate this. It exceeds expectations in terms of comfort and accuracy for a stock in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the hardwood providing a solid and substantial feel. The weight adds a sense of stability without being overly burdensome.
The thumbhole design promotes a comfortable and ergonomic grip, allowing for extended shooting sessions without fatigue. There is a slight learning curve for those unfamiliar with thumbhole stocks, but the benefits quickly outweigh the adjustment period.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardwood construction of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC ensures longevity with proper care. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional application of a wood preservative will help maintain its condition.
The finish provides a layer of protection against the elements, but it’s still wise to avoid prolonged exposure to harsh conditions. The stock is designed for easy maintenance, requiring no specialized tools or techniques.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC doesn’t come with specific accessories but readily accepts standard sling swivel studs for attaching slings. Aftermarket cheek risers can be added to further customize the fit for different optics.
The factory barrel channel is designed to accommodate the standard Thompson Center Compass barrel, but some minor sanding may be required for aftermarket or bull barrels. The stock is compatible with any scope mounting system designed for the Thompson Center Compass receiver.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC
Pros
- Enhanced Ergonomics: The thumbhole design provides a more secure and comfortable grip, leading to improved accuracy.
- Aesthetic Upgrade: The nutmeg finish and hardwood construction add a touch of class to the rifle.
- Drop-In Fit: Designed for easy installation with minimal gunsmithing required.
- Improved Recoil Absorption: Hardwood construction helps dampen recoil, making for a more comfortable shooting experience.
- Affordable Price: Provides a significant upgrade without breaking the bank.
Cons
- Wood is more susceptible to moisture and temperature changes compared to synthetic materials.
- Thumbhole design may not be preferred by all shooters.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC?
This stock is perfect for left-handed shooters looking to upgrade their Thompson Center Compass rifle with a more ergonomic and aesthetically pleasing stock. It is well-suited for hunters seeking a comfortable and accurate shooting platform.
Those who prefer synthetic stocks for their weather resistance or are not fans of thumbhole designs should skip this product. A must-have accessory would be a quality sling for comfortable carry in the field.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC is a fantastic upgrade that combines classic aesthetics with modern ergonomics at a reasonable price of $199.99. The price is justified by the improved comfort, accuracy, and overall shooting experience.
I would personally recommend it to any left-handed shooter looking to enhance their Thompson Center Compass rifle. Upgrade your rifle with the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock FT Thompson Center Compass Detachable Box Mag Short Action Left Hand FBC and experience the difference a quality stock can make.