Hogue Winchester M.70 Long Action Heavy/Varmint Barrel w/ Full Bed Block 07013 Review

Let’s Dive into Hogue Winchester M.70 Long Action Heavy/Varmint Barrel w/ Full Bed Block 07013

The Hogue Winchester M.70 Long Action Heavy/Varmint Barrel w/ Full Bed Block 07013 is a synthetic stock designed as a drop-in replacement for your existing Winchester Model 70 Long Action rifle. Hogue, a renowned name in firearm accessories, promises improved accuracy and stability with this stock, thanks to its full bed block construction. It’s an intriguing proposition for anyone looking to enhance their long-action rifle’s performance without the expense of a full custom build.

My aging Winchester Model 70, a trusted companion on many hunts, had begun to show its age in terms of accuracy. The original wood stock, though beautiful, had started to warp slightly, impacting consistent groupings. I was searching for a cost-effective way to revitalize my rifle’s precision, steering clear of expensive gunsmithing or a complete rifle replacement.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the Hogue stock’s solid feel and weight. The synthetic material felt robust, and the full bed block was reassuringly substantial. The black finish was clean and functional, lacking the visual charm of wood, but exuding a sense of purpose.

I considered a few other options, including a laminated wood stock from Boyds and a similar synthetic offering from Bell and Carlson. I chose the Hogue due to its reputation for comfortable ergonomics and the integrated full bed block, which promised a more rigid and stable platform compared to the others. I was hopeful that the full bed block would eliminate any flex between action and stock which is a chronic accuracy issue.

My initial reaction was a blend of cautious optimism and curiosity. The stock felt right in my hands, but the real test would be at the range. I was excited to see if it could deliver on its promise of improved accuracy and consistency and hoped it would breathe new life into my trusty old Winchester Model 70.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Winchester M.70 Long Action Heavy/Varmint Barrel w/ Full Bed Block 07013 to the Test

First Use Experience

The first test took place at my local shooting range, under relatively benign conditions. I wanted a controlled environment for initial observations. The weather was mild, with minimal wind, providing a fair playing field for assessing the stock’s performance.

The most noticeable difference was the improved stability of the rifle during firing. The Hogue stock felt noticeably more solid than the original wood stock, absorbing recoil more effectively. The rifle settled down more quickly after each shot, contributing to faster follow-up shots. The superior ergonomics of the palm swell lead to more comfortable shooting over long periods.

The only initial issue was the slightly tighter fit around the magazine well. This required a bit more force to seat and release the magazine compared to the original stock. The slighty tighter fit proved advantageous though as the magazine was held more tightly while firing.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent range use, the Hogue Winchester M.70 Long Action Heavy/Varmint Barrel w/ Full Bed Block 07013 has proven to be a worthwhile upgrade. The synthetic material has shown no signs of wear or degradation, even after being exposed to various cleaning solvents and lubricants. The improved accuracy experienced during initial testing has remained consistent throughout extended use.

The stock has proven highly durable, resisting scratches and dings that would have easily marked the original wood stock. Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dirt and grime. The bedding block design continues to provide consistent performance in differing weather.

Compared to the original wood stock, the Hogue offering is a clear winner. It provides greater stability, improved recoil absorption, and superior durability. It has successfully revitalized the performance of my Winchester Model 70, exceeding my initial expectations.

Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Winchester M.70 Long Action Heavy/Varmint Barrel w/ Full Bed Block 07013

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Hogue. Hogue is a well-known manufacturer in the firearms industry.
• Gun Make: Winchester. It’s specifically designed for Winchester rifles.
• Gun Model: Winchester Model 70 Long Action. It is only compatible with long-action versions of this model.
• Color: Black. The stock comes in a practical and non-reflective black finish.
• Quantity: 1. The product includes one stock.
• Fabric/Material: Synthetic. The synthetic material offers durability and weather resistance.

The synthetic construction ensures the stock remains stable regardless of environmental conditions, something the factory wood stock had issues with. The full bed block is critical because it creates a rigid interface between the rifle’s action and the stock, minimizing vibration and improving accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The Hogue Winchester M.70 Long Action Heavy/Varmint Barrel w/ Full Bed Block 07013 drastically improves the rifle’s accuracy and stability. The full bed block provides a solid foundation for the action. Recoil is noticeably reduced, improving follow-up shots, and overall the rifle is more pleasant to shoot.

The stock’s strength lies in its ability to maintain consistent accuracy, but it does lack the aesthetic appeal of a finely crafted wood stock. The ergonomics, though improved compared to the factory stock, could be further refined for even better handling. Overall, its performance far surpasses expectations given the price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is solid. The synthetic material feels durable and well-made, while the textured surfaces provide a secure grip. The palm swell adds a level of comfort absent in the factory stock, and aids in shooting accuracy.

The drop-in design makes installation relatively straightforward, though some minor fitting may be required. The stock feels balanced and comfortable in hand.

Durability & Maintenance

The synthetic material is highly resistant to the elements. It withstands scratches, dings, and exposure to solvents, promising a long service life. Maintenance is incredibly simple, requiring only a wipe-down to keep it clean.

I expect this stock to outlast the original wood stock significantly, providing years of reliable service. The ease of maintenance is a definite plus for anyone who spends time in the field.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hogue Winchester M.70 Long Action Heavy/Varmint Barrel w/ Full Bed Block 07013 does not come with any accessories beyond the stock itself. While it doesn’t offer direct customization options like adjustable cheek risers, it can be paired with various aftermarket accessories designed for the Winchester Model 70. These include:

• Slings: Any standard sling designed for rifles can be attached to the stock’s swivel studs.
• Bipods: The forend is compatible with bipods that attach to the swivel stud or a Picatinny rail adapter.

The Hogue stock accepts standard Winchester Model 70 magazines and trigger assemblies. The full bedding block system is not designed to be further customized or modified, as it is a precisely engineered component.

Pros and Cons of Hogue Winchester M.70 Long Action Heavy/Varmint Barrel w/ Full Bed Block 07013

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Who Should Buy Hogue Winchester M.70 Long Action Heavy/Varmint Barrel w/ Full Bed Block 07013?

The Hogue Winchester M.70 Long Action Heavy/Varmint Barrel w/ Full Bed Block 07013 is perfect for hunters and target shooters looking to improve the accuracy and consistency of their Winchester Model 70 Long Action rifle without breaking the bank. Anyone experiencing accuracy issues with their factory wood stock, or who desires a more durable and weather-resistant option, will find this stock a worthwhile upgrade. It is also ideal for varmint hunters and tactical shooters who need a reliable and stable platform for accurate shooting at longer ranges.

This product is not recommended for those who prioritize the classic look and feel of a traditional wood stock above all else. If you are looking for a highly customizable stock with adjustable features like cheek risers or length of pull, you may want to explore other options.

A must-have accessory for this stock is a high-quality sling. I also recommend using a bipod for long-range shooting to further enhance stability and accuracy.

Conclusion on Hogue Winchester M.70 Long Action Heavy/Varmint Barrel w/ Full Bed Block 07013

The Hogue Winchester M.70 Long Action Heavy/Varmint Barrel w/ Full Bed Block 07013 is a well-designed and highly functional upgrade for the Winchester Model 70 Long Action rifle. It delivers on its promise of improved accuracy and stability thanks to the full bed block construction. The synthetic material ensures durability and weather resistance, making it a reliable choice for any shooting environment.

At a price of $179.99, this stock offers exceptional value, delivering performance that rivals more expensive options. The price is absolutely justified by the noticeable improvement in shooting performance.

I wholeheartedly recommend the Hogue Winchester M.70 Long Action Heavy/Varmint Barrel w/ Full Bed Block 07013 to anyone seeking to enhance the performance of their Winchester Model 70 Long Action rifle. It’s a simple and effective way to breathe new life into a classic firearm. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference a quality stock can make!