Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock is a replacement stock designed to enhance both the ergonomics and aesthetics of your Savage 11 rifle. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks is known for crafting quality hardwood stocks, and this model is tailored specifically for the Savage 11 Hog Hunter, featuring a comfortable thumbhole design and bull barrel channel. This stock promises to improve your shooting experience, whether you’re tracking hogs in dense brush or taking long-range shots at the range.
My journey to finding this stock began with a desire to upgrade the factory stock on my Savage 11 Hog Hunter. While the original stock was functional, I felt it lacked the ergonomic features needed for comfortable, consistent shooting, especially during long hunting trips. I was specifically looking for a thumbhole design to improve my grip and reduce felt recoil, and a bull barrel channel to accommodate a heavier barrel profile for improved accuracy.
Upon unboxing the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the hardwood and the smooth, consistent finish. The thumbhole design felt natural in my hand, and the stock had a reassuring weight that suggested durability without being overly heavy. The bull barrel channel was cleanly cut and appeared ready to accept my rifle’s barrel.
I considered the Bell and Carlson Medalist Sporter stock and the Hogue Overmolded stock as alternatives. I opted for the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks model because I appreciated the classic look and feel of a hardwood stock, as well as the specific features tailored to the Savage 11 Hog Hunter. The Boyds stock offered the aesthetic I was seeking, combined with the practical advantages of the thumbhole design and bull barrel channel.
My first impression was one of excitement and anticipation. The stock appeared to be well-made and thoughtfully designed. I couldn’t wait to install it on my rifle and see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock at my local shooting range. I wanted to zero the rifle after installing the new stock. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, providing good conditions for testing accuracy.
The thumbhole design immediately improved my grip and stability. I found it easier to maintain a consistent cheek weld, which resulted in improved accuracy. The stock also absorbed recoil effectively, making it more comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
The only issue I encountered was that the stock required some minor fitting to perfectly accommodate the action of my rifle. This was easily resolved with some sandpaper and a few minutes of careful adjustment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it on multiple hunting trips in varying weather conditions, from dry and dusty to wet and muddy.
The stock shows no signs of wear and tear beyond some minor scratches from brush. The finish has remained intact, and the wood has not warped or cracked. Its durability has proven to be exceptional.
Maintenance is simple: I wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use and occasionally apply a light coat of oil to protect the wood. Compared to the original synthetic stock, the Boyds stock requires slightly more care, but the improved ergonomics and aesthetics are well worth the extra effort. The stock has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks.
- Gun Model: Savage 11 (Hog Hunter).
- Action Type: Short Action.
- Magazine Type: Blind Magazine.
- Barrel Channel: Bull Barrel Channel.
- Stock Style: Featherweight Thumbhole.
- Material: Hardwood (typically laminate).
- Finish: Medium Brown (varies by wood grade).
These specifications matter because they directly impact the stock’s fit, function, and overall performance. The short action designation ensures compatibility with Savage 11 short action rifles, while the blind magazine inlet accommodates rifles with a non-detachable magazine. The bull barrel channel is crucial for accommodating heavier, larger-diameter barrels, which are often used for improved accuracy. The featherweight thumbhole design aims to provide a comfortable grip while reducing overall weight.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock excels in providing a more stable and comfortable shooting platform. The thumbhole design promotes a consistent grip and reduces felt recoil. The bull barrel channel ensures that the barrel is free-floated, which can improve accuracy by eliminating pressure points.
The primary strength is the improved ergonomics, which lead to better accuracy and shooting comfort. A minor weakness is that some fitting may be required, depending on the specific rifle. It has met and exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The hardwood is well-finished, and the thumbhole design is comfortable to hold. The stock has a solid, reassuring feel without being overly heavy.
The stock is user-friendly, though installation may require some basic gunsmithing skills. There’s a slight learning curve in getting used to the thumbhole grip, but most shooters will find it natural and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardwood construction ensures long-lasting durability. Proper care, such as regular cleaning and occasional oiling, will help maintain the stock’s finish and prevent warping. The stock is easy to maintain and repair, with readily available replacement parts and finishes.
Accessories and Customization Options
The stock itself does not come with any accessories. However, it can be customized with aftermarket recoil pads, cheek risers, and sling swivel studs. It’s compatible with most standard Savage 11 accessories, such as scope mounts and bipods.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock
Pros
- Improved Ergonomics: The thumbhole design provides a comfortable and secure grip, leading to better control and reduced felt recoil.
- Enhanced Accuracy: The bull barrel channel ensures the barrel is free-floated, promoting optimal accuracy.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The hardwood construction adds a classic and elegant look to the rifle.
- Durable Construction: High-quality hardwood ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Customizable: Compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, allowing for personalization and performance enhancements.
Cons
- Potential Fitting Required: Some minor fitting may be necessary to perfectly accommodate the rifle action.
- Requires Maintenance: Hardwood requires more care than synthetic stocks, including regular cleaning and oiling.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock?
This stock is perfect for hunters and target shooters who want to improve the ergonomics and accuracy of their Savage 11 rifle. It’s also a great choice for those who appreciate the classic look and feel of a hardwood stock.
Those who prefer a completely maintenance-free stock or are not comfortable with basic gunsmithing tasks should skip this product.
Must-have accessories include a high-quality recoil pad to further reduce felt recoil and a cheek riser to optimize cheek weld with a scope.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock is a worthwhile upgrade for any Savage 11 owner looking to enhance their rifle’s ergonomics, accuracy, and aesthetics. The price is justified by the improved shooting experience and the high-quality construction.
I would personally recommend this stock to anyone who values comfort, accuracy, and a classic look. Upgrade your Savage 11 today with the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Stock and experience the difference firsthand.