Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel is a replacement stock designed for left-handed shooters who own a right-action Enfield P-17 rifle. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks aims to provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing upgrade to the original military stock, crafted from quality hardwood. This stock is intended to improve the rifle’s ergonomics and potentially enhance its accuracy.
I’ve always felt a bit off shooting right-handed rifles as a lefty, so when I inherited my grandfather’s Enfield P-17, I knew I needed a left-handed stock. I needed a stock that not only accommodated my left-handedness, but also preserved the classic look of the Enfield. The original stock was showing its age, and I wanted something that felt solid and reliable.
Upon unboxing the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel, my first impression was positive. The pepper laminate wood was attractive and felt substantial. The weight felt appropriate for the rifle’s overall balance and the finish appeared smooth and even.
I considered other options, including synthetic stocks, but I ultimately chose the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel for its traditional appearance and the promise of enhanced comfort for a left-handed shooter. Other synthetic stocks seemed too modern for such a classic rifle, and some cheaper wood stocks had questionable reviews regarding fit and finish. I was excited to see how this stock would transform the feel of my Enfield.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel at my local shooting range, focusing on comfort and accuracy. I wanted to get a feel for how the stock improved the shooting experience over the original. The weather was clear and mild, providing ideal conditions for evaluating the stock.
The immediate difference was noticeable: the left-handed design allowed for a much more natural and comfortable grip. The cheek weld felt much more secure, and I didn’t have to contort my body to align my eye with the sights. The initial shots felt more stable and controlled, and recoil felt more manageable.
There was a minor issue, as the fit required a bit of sanding around the action for a perfect fit. This was expected with a wood stock and easily remedied, but initially caused some concern. However, once properly fitted, the rifle felt solid and balanced in my hands.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel has proven to be quite durable. It has held up well during numerous range trips and even a few hunting excursions. There are no signs of cracking or splitting, even after being subjected to moderate recoil.
The finish has remained intact, despite some exposure to the elements. Cleaning is straightforward: a simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps the wood looking its best. This is far easier than maintaining the original stock, which seemed to attract dirt and grime.
Compared to my experiences with other aftermarket stocks, this Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock has been a clear improvement in terms of both comfort and aesthetics. The original stock was uncomfortable for a left-handed shooter, and a cheaper synthetic stock I tried previously felt flimsy and unbalanced. This stock is a perfect balance of classic design and modern functionality.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks – A well-known manufacturer specializing in quality hardwood stocks. This gives me confidence in the product’s pedigree.
- Gun Type: Rifle – Designed specifically for rifles. No surprises here.
- Gun Make: Lee-Enfield – Ensures compatibility with Lee-Enfield rifles. This is critical for proper fitment.
- Gun Model: Enfield M1917 – Specifically made for the M1917 model. This guarantees a precise fit for my specific rifle.
- Color: Pepper – Offers a visually appealing laminate wood finish. The pepper finish provides a nice contrast and gives the stock a unique look.
- Hand: Left – Crucially, this is a left-handed stock for right-action rifles. This is the primary reason I purchased this stock.
These specifications are critical because they guarantee the stock will fit my specific rifle and provide the left-handed ergonomics I need. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks reputation for quality also ensures the stock is made from durable materials and will withstand the rigors of regular use.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel significantly improves the rifle’s usability, comfort, and stability for left-handed shooters. It’s a drop-in replacement, though some minor fitting may be required.
The stock enhances accuracy by providing a more consistent and comfortable cheek weld, reducing shooter fatigue and promoting better sight alignment. While the fit around the receiver required some minor sanding, the overall result is a solid and reliable platform.
However, the military barrel channel might not accommodate heavier aftermarket barrels without additional modification. This is a potential drawback for those looking to upgrade their Enfield with a non-standard barrel.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel features a classic design that preserves the traditional look of the Enfield rifle. The pepper laminate wood is both attractive and durable.
The ergonomic improvements are substantial for left-handed shooters, providing a more natural and comfortable grip. There is a slight learning curve involved in fitting the stock, but the instructions are clear and readily available online.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardwood construction ensures long-lasting durability, capable of withstanding years of use and exposure to the elements. The finish is resistant to scratches and dings.
Maintenance is straightforward: a simple cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s needed to keep the stock in good condition. This minimizes upkeep.
Accessories and Customization Options
The stock is designed to accommodate the original Enfield P-17 hardware, including the buttplate and sling swivels. While this stock is designed to maintain the original military configuration, you could technically add a cheek riser if desired.
The barrel channel is designed for a military-profile barrel, so aftermarket bull barrels may require additional fitting. The stock accepts standard sling swivels.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel
Pros
- Significantly improved ergonomics for left-handed shooters.
- Durable hardwood construction ensures longevity.
- Classic design preserves the traditional look of the Enfield P-17.
- Enhanced accuracy due to improved cheek weld and stability.
- Relatively easy to install, with clear instructions.
Cons
- May require minor fitting around the action for a perfect fit.
- The military barrel channel may not accommodate heavier aftermarket barrels without modification.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel is perfect for left-handed shooters who own a right-action Enfield P-17 rifle and are looking for a comfortable and durable replacement stock. It’s also a great option for those who appreciate the classic look and feel of a traditional wood stock.
This product might not be ideal for those looking for a modern tactical stock or those who plan to install a heavy bull barrel without being prepared for some fitting work. Shooters who are not comfortable with minor gunsmithing tasks might want to seek professional installation.
A must-have accessory is a good set of wood rasps and sandpaper for fine-tuning the fit. A gunsmithing screwdriver set is also highly recommended for removing and installing the action screws.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel is a fantastic upgrade for any left-handed shooter looking to improve the comfort and performance of their Enfield P-17 rifle. The $199.99 price is justified by the quality of the materials, the enhanced ergonomics, and the overall improvement in shooting experience.
I wholeheartedly recommend this stock to fellow lefties struggling with the ergonomics of a right-handed rifle. It’s a well-made, aesthetically pleasing, and functional upgrade that will breathe new life into your Enfield. If you’re ready to transform your shooting experience, give the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Enfield P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Action Military Barrel Channel a try – you won’t be disappointed!