First Impressions of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 Short Action Detachable Box Mag Hawkins Precision M5 Bottom Metal Factory Barrel Channel
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 Short Action Detachable Box Mag Hawkins Precision M5 Bottom Metal Factory Barrel Channel is a mouthful of a name, but it promises significant upgrades for the venerable Remington 700 platform. As a long-time Remington 700 user and advocate for modularity in tactical and hunting rifles, this stock immediately piqued my interest due to its promise of improved ergonomics and the convenience of a detachable box magazine system. This stock aims to transform your Remington 700 into a more accurate and user-friendly rifle, blending classic aesthetics with modern functionality.
Years of field experience taught me that a rifle’s stock is often the most overlooked, yet most crucial, component affecting accuracy and handling. My aging factory stock on my Remington 700 Short Action was showing its wear, and I sought a more robust, ergonomically sound platform that also enabled the use of detachable magazines. I had been grappling with the limitations of the factory internal magazine, especially during rapid follow-up shots while hunting.
Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of quality craftsmanship. The hardwood felt solid and well-finished, and the inletting appeared precise, promising a drop-in fit. The stock’s design, with its enhanced grip and streamlined forend, screamed both classic hunting rifle and modern precision tool.
I considered alternatives like the Magpul Hunter 700 stock and the MDT chassis systems. However, I chose the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 Short Action Detachable Box Mag Hawkins Precision M5 Bottom Metal Factory Barrel Channel for its balance of traditional aesthetics, enhanced ergonomics, and the integrated M5 bottom metal. I was hoping to achieve a blend of classic looks and modern performance.
My first impression was positive, with a blend of excitement and cautious optimism. The stock looked beautiful, felt solid, and had the right features. The real test would be seeing how it performs in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 Short Action Detachable Box Mag Hawkins Precision M5 Bottom Metal Factory Barrel Channel to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial testing took place at my local shooting range, under relatively ideal conditions: a sunny day with a slight breeze. I wanted to zero the rifle with the new stock and assess its overall feel and function. Installation was straightforward, with the Remington 700 action dropping into the stock with minimal fuss, a testament to Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks‘ precision inletting.
The improved ergonomics were immediately noticeable. The grip felt more natural in my hand, and the streamlined forend provided a stable platform for supported shooting. The detachable box magazine system functioned flawlessly right out of the box, with smooth magazine insertion and reliable feeding.
No major issues arose during the first range session, although I did notice a slight pressure point on the barrel channel that needed some minor adjustment with sandpaper to ensure a free-floating barrel. Otherwise, the stock performed as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use across multiple range sessions and a deer hunting trip, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 Short Action Detachable Box Mag Hawkins Precision M5 Bottom Metal Factory Barrel Channel has proven to be a significant upgrade. The hardwood has held up well against scratches and minor impacts, showing no signs of structural weakness. The finish is durable and easy to clean.
Maintenance is simple: wiping down the stock with a lightly oiled cloth after each use is sufficient to keep it in good condition. I’ve found that the enhanced ergonomics contribute to more consistent accuracy, especially during rapid follow-up shots. It has outperformed the original factory stock in terms of both comfort and stability.
Compared to my previous experiences with polymer stocks, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock provides a more solid and stable feel. The weight distribution feels better, and the natural warmth of the wood is a welcome change from the often cold and synthetic feel of polymer alternatives.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 Short Action Detachable Box Mag Hawkins Precision M5 Bottom Metal Factory Barrel Channel
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 Short Action Detachable Box Mag Hawkins Precision M5 Bottom Metal Factory Barrel Channel is designed for Remington 700 Short Action rifles. It is crafted from high-quality hardwood, providing a blend of strength and aesthetics. The stock is specifically inletted for a factory barrel channel, meaning it should accommodate standard Remington 700 barrel contours without requiring extensive modification.
It is configured for a detachable box magazine (DBM) system, utilizing the Hawkins Precision M5 bottom metal. The Hawkins Precision M5 bottom metal is a popular and reliable system known for its smooth magazine feeding and robust construction. This allows for faster reloads and greater ammunition capacity compared to the factory internal magazine. The stock is designed for short action calibers such as .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, and similar cartridges.
The Action Length is explicitly Short Action, fitting Remington 700 actions with a shorter bolt throw. It is compatible with various Remington 700 models, including the Remington Model 700 SPS ADL, Remington Model 700 XHR, Remington Model 700 CDL, Remington Model 700 XCR, and the standard Remington Model 700. The hardwood construction provides excellent vibration dampening, contributing to improved accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 Short Action Detachable Box Mag Hawkins Precision M5 Bottom Metal Factory Barrel Channel significantly improves the functionality of a Remington 700. The Hawkins Precision M5 bottom metal ensures reliable feeding and ejection, a major advantage over the factory internal magazine. Accuracy is enhanced by the solid stock construction and the potential for a free-floating barrel (with minor fitting).
The main strength lies in its improved ergonomics and the convenience of a DBM system. The only minor weakness is the potential need for slight barrel channel adjustments. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations, transforming the Remington 700 into a more versatile and user-friendly rifle.
Design & Ergonomics
The stock is well-designed, offering a comfortable grip and a streamlined forend that enhances stability. The hardwood provides a solid and durable feel. The stock is generally user-friendly, although some gunsmithing knowledge might be required for optimal barrel fitting.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardwood construction ensures excellent durability, capable of withstanding the rigors of field use. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling. The stock is built to last, providing years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 Short Action Detachable Box Mag Hawkins Precision M5 Bottom Metal Factory Barrel Channel readily accepts standard Remington 700 accessories. This includes scopes, bipods, and slings. The Hawkins Precision M5 bottom metal is compatible with AICS-pattern magazines, providing a wide range of options for ammunition capacity and reliability.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 Short Action Detachable Box Mag Hawkins Precision M5 Bottom Metal Factory Barrel Channel
Pros
- Enhanced ergonomics provide a more comfortable and stable shooting platform.
- The Hawkins Precision M5 bottom metal offers reliable feeding and faster reloads with detachable box magazines.
- High-quality hardwood construction ensures durability and a classic aesthetic.
- Relatively easy drop-in installation, minimizing the need for extensive gunsmithing.
- Improves overall accuracy and consistency, especially during rapid follow-up shots.
Cons
- May require minor fitting to ensure a free-floating barrel.
- Hardwood can be susceptible to moisture damage if not properly maintained.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 Short Action Detachable Box Mag Hawkins Precision M5 Bottom Metal Factory Barrel Channel?
This stock is perfect for hunters seeking to upgrade their Remington 700 for improved ergonomics and faster reloads. It also is well-suited for competitive shooters who appreciate the benefits of a detachable box magazine system and enhanced stability. Anyone looking to modernize their Remington 700 while maintaining a classic aesthetic will find this stock appealing.
Individuals who prioritize an extremely lightweight rifle or those who are not comfortable with minor gunsmithing tasks (such as barrel channel fitting) might want to consider other options.
Must-have accessories include high-quality AICS-pattern magazines and a quality scope for maximizing the rifle’s accuracy potential. Bedding the action to the stock would further enhance accuracy.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 Short Action Detachable Box Mag Hawkins Precision M5 Bottom Metal Factory Barrel Channel
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 Short Action Detachable Box Mag Hawkins Precision M5 Bottom Metal Factory Barrel Channel is a worthwhile upgrade for any Remington 700 owner looking to improve their rifle’s ergonomics, functionality, and aesthetics. The price is justified by the quality of materials, improved performance, and the convenience of a detachable box magazine system.
I would personally recommend this stock to anyone seeking a blend of classic looks and modern performance in their Remington 700. If you’re ready to transform your trusty Remington 700 into a more versatile and accurate rifle, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Agility Remington 700 Short Action Detachable Box Mag Hawkins Precision M5 Bottom Metal Factory Barrel Channel is an excellent choice.