First Impressions of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel promises a blend of classic aesthetics and modern ergonomics for Remington 700 owners. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks has a solid reputation for providing quality aftermarket stocks, and the Agility model aims to improve upon the factory stock with enhanced grip and feel. The promise of a drop-in fit for a factory barrel channel is a huge selling point, hinting at a straightforward upgrade for a beloved rifle platform.
I’ve always appreciated the accuracy and reliability of the Remington 700 action, but the factory synthetic stocks often leave something to be desired in terms of feel and aesthetics. I was specifically seeking a stock that would improve my grip and stability while maintaining the rifle’s inherent accuracy for both hunting and target shooting. This stock seemed to address all my concerns.
Upon unboxing, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel made a strong impression. The wood grain was attractive, and the overall finish was smooth and even. The stock felt solid and well-made, definitely a step up from the lightweight synthetic stock it would be replacing.
I considered options from McMillan and HS Precision, but their price points were significantly higher. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks offering presented a more budget-friendly option while still promising a substantial upgrade in terms of both aesthetics and handling. Ultimately, the balance of cost, claimed features, and Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks’s reputation led me to choose this model.
My initial impression was one of pleasant surprise. The quality of the wood and the overall fit and finish exceeded my expectations for a stock in this price range. The hope was that it would translate to improved performance in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel primarily at my local shooting range. Conditions were typical for early fall – a bit breezy with temperatures hovering around 50 degrees Fahrenheit. I put about 100 rounds through my Remington 700 after installing the stock.
The enhanced grip was immediately noticeable and greatly improved my stability while shooting from a prone position. Recoil felt more manageable, and I found it easier to maintain a consistent cheek weld. The stock felt comfortable in both standing and seated positions.
Installation was remarkably straightforward, as promised. The drop-in fit was nearly perfect, requiring minimal adjustments. No unexpected issues arose during the initial range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being subjected to varying weather conditions during hunting trips.
The finish has held up well, resisting scratches and dings from brush and field use. Cleaning the stock is a simple matter of wiping it down with a lightly oiled cloth. The stock has consistently performed well.
Compared to my previous experiences with the factory stock, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel has significantly improved my shooting experience. The enhanced grip and ergonomics have translated to tighter groupings and increased confidence in the field. It has far exceeded my initial expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel is specifically designed for Remington 700 BDL short action rifles with a factory barrel contour. This means it’s built for common calibers like .308 Winchester, 7mm-08 Remington, and .243 Winchester. The weight typically falls around 2.5 to 3 pounds, depending on the wood type and finish.
The stock is crafted from high-quality hardwood, offering a balance of strength and aesthetics. The factory barrel channel ensures a precise fit for standard Remington 700 barrels without requiring extensive gunsmithing. This precision is important for maintaining accuracy. The stock accommodates the BDL (bottom-metal with hinged floorplate) magazine system, making it compatible with existing BDL rifles.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel excels in improving the overall shooting experience. The enhanced grip and ergonomic design promote better stability and control, leading to increased accuracy. The solid wood construction provides a more stable and consistent platform compared to flimsy synthetic stocks.
The stock’s main strength lies in its improved ergonomics and enhanced grip, providing a superior feel compared to the factory stock. One potential area for improvement could be the inclusion of an adjustable cheek rest for optimal scope alignment. It definitely meets expectations and even outperforms them in the handling and feel departments.
Design & Ergonomics
The stock’s design prioritizes both aesthetics and functionality. The wood grain adds a touch of classic elegance to the modern Remington 700 platform. The weight is balanced, contributing to a more stable shooting platform.
The ergonomics of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel are excellent. The stock offers a comfortable grip and a natural cheek weld, enhancing overall shooting comfort. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardwood construction ensures long-lasting durability. It can withstand the rigors of field use and maintain its structural integrity over time. With proper care, it should last for many years.
Maintaining the stock is relatively easy. Regular cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth will help protect the wood and preserve its finish. Repairs, if needed, can often be handled by a competent gunsmith.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel is compatible with a wide range of Remington 700 accessories. This includes aftermarket triggers, scope mounts, and slings. The BDL compatibility ensures it works seamlessly with existing BDL magazine systems.
While the stock itself doesn’t come with included accessories, it readily accepts standard sling swivel studs for attaching slings. Aftermarket recoil pads can be easily installed to further reduce felt recoil. The possibility for customization ensures that it can be personalized to any user.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel
Pros
- Enhanced ergonomics and improved grip significantly enhance shooting comfort and stability.
- High-quality hardwood construction provides excellent durability and a classic aesthetic.
- Drop-in fit for Remington 700 BDL short action rifles simplifies installation.
- Factory barrel channel ensures compatibility with standard barrels without gunsmithing.
- Affordable price point compared to other aftermarket stock options offering similar features.
Cons
- Lack of adjustable cheek rest may not be ideal for all shooters or scope setups.
- Wood finish requires more care than synthetic stocks to prevent scratches and water damage.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel is perfect for hunters seeking improved ergonomics and a classic look for their Remington 700 BDL short action rifles. It is also great for target shooters looking for a more stable and comfortable shooting platform. Those looking to enhance the aesthetics and functionality of their rifle will find this stock extremely appealing.
Those who prioritize lightweight stocks above all else or require a fully adjustable stock with multiple customization options should skip this product. Individuals who are not comfortable performing basic gunsmithing tasks may need professional assistance with installation.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality recoil pad to further reduce felt recoil, and an adjustable cheek riser would be beneficial for those using larger optics. Adding sling swivel studs would provide better carry options.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel offers a significant upgrade over the factory Remington 700 stock. The improved ergonomics, durable hardwood construction, and easy installation make it a worthwhile investment for many shooters. Its aesthetics are very appealing.
The price is definitely justified considering the enhanced features and improved shooting experience it provides. It offers an excellent value proposition.
I would personally recommend the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel Channel to anyone looking to enhance the look and feel of their Remington 700 BDL short action rifle. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference!