Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is a replacement stock designed to breathe new life into your Thompson/Center Icon rifle. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks aims to provide a classic aesthetic with a modern twist, catering to shooters who appreciate the timeless appeal of wood while demanding contemporary ergonomics. This stock promises to be more than just a visual upgrade; it’s an opportunity to improve handling and shooting comfort.
My search for a replacement stock began when I acquired a used TC Icon long action rifle with a less-than-stellar factory stock. The original felt cheap and offered poor grip, detracting from the rifle’s inherent accuracy potential. I craved a stock that not only looked better but also provided a more secure and comfortable shooting platform, and the thumbhole design of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock caught my eye.
Upon unboxing, the stock immediately impressed me with its smooth finish and the apparent quality of the hardwood. The weight felt balanced, hinting at improved stability over the factory synthetic stock. The thumbhole design seemed well-executed, promising a natural and secure grip.
I considered alternatives like the McMillan Game Scout and the Bell and Carlson Medalist, both offering similar upgrades but at a significantly higher price point. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock offered a compelling combination of value and classic aesthetics that ultimately swayed my decision. My initial impression was one of cautious optimism; I was excited by the potential but eager to see how it performed in real-world conditions.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock at my local shooting range, focusing on benchrest accuracy and off-hand shooting. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze. The thumbhole design immediately proved its worth, providing a secure and repeatable grip that improved my consistency.
The improved ergonomics translated to better recoil absorption and reduced muzzle climb, allowing for faster follow-up shots. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock enhanced the overall shooting experience, feeling more natural than the factory stock.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock has held up remarkably well. I’ve used it during multiple range sessions and a weekend deer hunt in moderately rough terrain. Minor scratches are inevitable with a wood stock, but the finish remains intact and the stock itself shows no signs of cracking or warping.
Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of gun stock wax. Compared to my previous experience with synthetic stocks, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock offers a more refined feel and a tangible improvement in shooting comfort. It significantly outperforms the original factory stock and rivals the feel of stocks costing considerably more.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is specifically designed for the Thompson/Center Icon long action rifles. The stock is constructed from hardwood, offering a blend of durability and classic aesthetics. The factory barrel channel ensures a drop-in fit for standard TC Icon barrel profiles.
The thumbhole design promotes a secure and ergonomic grip, aiding in recoil management and accuracy. The sandblasted finish provides a non-slip surface, even in wet conditions. These specifications translate to enhanced handling, improved accuracy, and a more comfortable shooting experience overall.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock excels in improving the overall shooting experience. The thumbhole design provides a secure and comfortable grip, which noticeably enhances accuracy, especially during off-hand shooting. The improved recoil absorption makes extended range sessions more enjoyable.
While the drop-in fit simplifies installation, some minor fitting may be required depending on the specific rifle. The stock meets and exceeds my expectations for a replacement stock in this price range. It provides a tangible improvement in both aesthetics and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is impressive for its price point. The hardwood feels solid and the finish is smooth and even. The weight is well-balanced, contributing to improved rifle handling.
The thumbhole design is inherently user-friendly, promoting a natural and comfortable grip. There’s virtually no learning curve, making it suitable for both experienced shooters and those new to thumbhole stocks.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardwood construction suggests good long-term durability, provided the stock is properly cared for. Minor scratches are to be expected with regular use, but the stock should withstand typical hunting and range conditions. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and waxing.
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is designed for easy repair, should any damage occur. This simple maintenance routine will keep it looking great for years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock itself does not come with any accessories. However, it readily accepts standard sling swivel studs for attaching slings and bipods. While the stock is designed for a factory barrel contour, some shooters may choose to bed the action or free-float the barrel for enhanced accuracy.
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is compatible with most aftermarket recoil pads, allowing for further customization of recoil absorption and length of pull. The ability to add slings and bipods makes the rifle much easier to carry in the field.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Pros
- Improved ergonomics provided by the thumbhole design enhances shooting comfort and accuracy.
- Classic hardwood aesthetics offer a significant visual upgrade over synthetic factory stocks.
- Enhanced recoil absorption reduces muzzle climb and allows for faster follow-up shots.
- Drop-in fit simplifies installation, requiring minimal gunsmithing skills.
- Excellent value for the money provides a high-quality upgrade at an affordable price.
Cons
- Hardwood stocks are more susceptible to scratches and dings than synthetic alternatives.
- Factory barrel channel may require some minor fitting for optimal barrel free-floating.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is perfect for TC Icon owners looking to upgrade their rifle’s ergonomics and aesthetics without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for hunters who appreciate the classic look and feel of wood, and for target shooters seeking improved accuracy and recoil management. Anyone looking to improve their TC Icon’s comfort and style will benefit from this stock.
Those prioritizing absolute weather resistance and minimal maintenance should consider a synthetic stock instead. Shooters with heavily customized barrel contours may need to modify the barrel channel for a proper fit. Consider upgrading to a synthetic stock if you hunt in harsh weather.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is a fantastic upgrade for the Thompson/Center Icon rifle. It offers a compelling combination of classic aesthetics, improved ergonomics, and exceptional value. The enhanced accuracy and recoil management make it a worthwhile investment for any serious shooter.
The price is more than justified by the tangible improvements in shooting comfort and performance. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole TC Icon Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock to anyone looking to breathe new life into their TC Icon. Upgrade your shooting experience today and rediscover the joy of shooting with a rifle that feels as good as it looks!