Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock is a significant upgrade for Remington 7 owners looking for improved ergonomics and a more personalized shooting experience. Designed with a thumbhole grip and a featherweight profile, this stock promises enhanced comfort and control, especially for those with larger hands or those who prefer a more secure hold. This stock not only improves the aesthetic of the rifle, but offers potential gains in accuracy and stability.
My old Remington 7’s factory stock was functional, but it never felt truly comfortable. I have larger hands, and the standard stock always felt a bit too small, leading to inconsistent grip and, ultimately, affecting my shot placement during hunts. I was looking for a stock that would provide a more natural and secure grip, improve my accuracy, and add a touch of personalization to my favorite rifle.
Upon unboxing the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock, I was immediately struck by the quality of the hardwood. The finish was smooth and even, and the thumbhole design felt comfortable and ergonomic in my hand. The stock felt lighter than the factory synthetic stock, which was a pleasant surprise, suggesting the “Featherweight” designation was accurate.
I considered a few other aftermarket stocks from brands like Bell and Carlson and HS Precision. Ultimately, I chose the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock because of its thumbhole design, positive reviews regarding fit and finish, and its attractive price point. The other stocks were significantly more expensive, and I wasn’t convinced that the added cost would translate into a proportional increase in performance.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The stock looked fantastic, felt great in my hands, and seemed to be a well-made product. I was excited to install it on my Remington 7 and see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock came during a weekend deer hunt in the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was typical for that time of year: cold, damp, and with a light drizzle throughout the day. I spent several hours stalking through the woods, carrying my Remington 7 with its new stock.
The thumbhole design immediately proved its worth, providing a secure and comfortable grip even with gloved hands. The improved ergonomics allowed for quicker target acquisition and a more consistent cheek weld, which translated into tighter groupings at the range. I didn’t experience any issues with the stock slipping or becoming uncomfortable, even after several hours of use in wet conditions.
After the hunt, I noticed some minor surface scratches on the stock from brushing against trees and rocks. It was purely cosmetic, but it highlighted the need for a more durable finish. Overall, the initial performance was excellent, but the finish concerned me.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use in various hunting and range environments, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock has held up remarkably well. The wood itself is solid and shows no signs of cracking or warping, despite exposure to a range of temperatures and humidity levels. The finish, however, remains a concern, and I’ve noticed additional minor scratches and dings over time.
While the scratches are purely cosmetic, I decided to apply a coat of polyurethane to the stock to provide better protection against the elements and further wear and tear. Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. The polyurethane coating makes cleaning even easier.
Compared to the original factory stock, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock provides a significantly better shooting experience. The improved ergonomics and secure grip have noticeably improved my accuracy and confidence in the field. The factory synthetic stock felt flimsy and uncomfortable by comparison.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks.
- Gun Make: Remington.
- Gun Model: Remington 7 Predator, Remington Model 7.
- Gun Type: Rifle.
- Action Type: Short Action.
- Barrel Channel: Mag Barrel Channel.
- Stock Style: Featherweight Thumbhole.
- Material: Hardwood (various wood options available).
These specifications are vital for several reasons. The short action designation ensures compatibility with Remington 7 rifles chambered in short-action calibers, while the mag barrel channel accommodates larger barrel profiles. The featherweight thumbhole design enhances ergonomics and reduces overall weight.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock performs exceptionally well in its primary function: providing a stable and comfortable platform for shooting. The thumbhole design allows for a more natural and secure grip, promoting better trigger control and reducing felt recoil. The stock enhances accuracy, particularly during rapid follow-up shots.
The stock’s greatest strength is its ergonomic design. However, the factory finish could be more durable, and some shooters might prefer a different wood option.
The stock meets and, in some ways, exceeds my expectations. The improved ergonomics and enhanced accuracy are significant improvements over the factory stock. The only area where it falls short is the factory finish durability.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock boasts a well-thought-out design. The thumbhole is appropriately sized and positioned for comfortable use, and the overall shape of the stock promotes a natural shooting posture. The stock’s weight is noticeably lighter than the factory synthetic stock, making it easier to carry for extended periods.
The hardwood construction feels solid and durable, and the stock is comfortable to hold, even in cold weather. The stock requires minimal adjustment for most users, however, bedding the action is a good idea for optimum accuracy.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock should last for many years. The hardwood construction is inherently durable, and the stock’s simple design minimizes the risk of mechanical failure. Regular cleaning and occasional application of a protective finish will help maintain its appearance and structural integrity.
Cleaning is simple and straightforward. Minor scratches and dings can be repaired with wood filler and refinishing.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock does not come with any accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories designed for the Remington 7, including scope mounts, slings, and bipods.
The stock can be further customized with different finishes, checkering patterns, and recoil pads. Bedding the action to the stock is a common modification to improve accuracy.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock
Pros
- Enhanced ergonomics and improved grip due to the thumbhole design.
- Noticeably lighter weight compared to factory synthetic stocks.
- Improved accuracy and tighter groupings.
- Attractive hardwood construction and customizable finish.
- Affordable price point compared to other aftermarket stocks.
Cons
- Factory finish could be more durable.
- May require bedding for optimal accuracy.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock is perfect for hunters, target shooters, and anyone looking to upgrade the ergonomics and aesthetics of their Remington 7 rifle. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals with larger hands or those who prefer a more secure and comfortable grip. This is also a great stock for those looking for a lightweight option to reduce carry weight during long hunts.
This stock might not be the best choice for individuals who prioritize maximum durability over aesthetics or those who require a stock with integrated features such as adjustable cheek pieces or recoil reduction systems. Those seeking a “drop-in and go” solution without any potential need for bedding might also consider other options.
A must-have accessory for this stock is a high-quality sling for comfortable carrying. A bipod can also be beneficial for enhanced stability during long-range shooting. Consider bedding the action for optimal accuracy.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock
Overall, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock is an excellent upgrade for Remington 7 owners. The improved ergonomics, lighter weight, and enhanced accuracy make it a worthwhile investment. While the factory finish could be more durable, this can be easily addressed with a protective coating.
The price is justified by the significant improvement in shooting experience and overall value. You get a lot of performance for your money.
I would personally recommend the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 7 Short Action Mag Barrel Channel Stock to anyone looking to enhance their Remington 7 rifle. If you are looking for better accuracy and ergonomics, buy this stock now! You won’t regret it!