Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Review

Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is more than just a replacement stock; it’s a nod to classic rifle design with a modern twist. Crafted by Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, this stock aims to breathe new life into a classic Winchester Model 70 Pre-WWII action while providing enhanced ergonomics and aesthetics. For those looking to restore a family heirloom or simply improve their rifle’s feel and performance, this stock promises a blend of tradition and innovation.

My own journey to this particular stock began with a well-loved, but heavily worn, Winchester 70 passed down from my grandfather. The original stock, while full of sentimental value, was cracked and ill-fitting, impacting both accuracy and comfort. I was seeking a replacement that honored the rifle’s history while offering a more secure and comfortable shooting platform.

Upon unboxing the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock, I was immediately struck by the quality of the hardwood. The thumbhole design felt natural in my hand, and the overall construction seemed robust. The two-piece floor plate design, a hallmark of classic rifles, added a touch of elegance often missing in modern replacements.

I considered a few synthetic stocks, as well as laminate wood options from other manufacturers. Ultimately, the Boyds stock won me over with its promise of a classic aesthetic combined with the ergonomic advantages of a thumbhole design. I hoped to find a balance between honoring the past and improving the shooting experience.

My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a bit of apprehension. I was eager to see how it would transform the rifle’s feel and accuracy. I was also slightly concerned about the fit, as aftermarket stocks can sometimes require significant fitting.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock at my local shooting range. The range offers covered and uncovered lanes, giving me the chance to assess the rifle in both sunny and shaded conditions. I focused on slow, deliberate shots to evaluate the improved stability and ergonomics.

The thumbhole design immediately improved my grip and recoil management, even with heavier loads. The increased contact points allowed for more consistent shot placement, and the stock felt solid and secure against my shoulder. I noticed a significant reduction in felt recoil compared to the original stock.

The installation required minimal fitting, which was a pleasant surprise. After tightening the action screws, the rifle felt like a cohesive unit, ready for action. I experienced no immediate issues.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock continues to impress. It has seen use in both range sessions and a deer hunting trip in moderately rough terrain. The stock has proven to be robust and reliable.

There are no signs of cracking or splitting in the wood, even after exposure to varying temperatures and humidity levels. The finish has held up well, resisting scratches and scuffs. The stock has maintained its solid feel, with no loosening of the action screws.

Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a clean cloth after each use is sufficient. I occasionally apply a light coat of furniture polish to protect the wood and enhance its luster. This stock surpasses the original stock in terms of durability and stability.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

Specifications

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is designed specifically for the Winchester Model 70 Pre-WWII long action rifles. The stock features a factory barrel channel designed to accommodate the original barrel profile. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks crafts this stock from high-quality hardwood, providing a balance of strength, weight, and aesthetics.

This two-piece floor plate design provides a classic look and, according to Boyds, allows for tighter tolerances and a sleeker profile. The featherweight profile keeps the rifle’s overall weight manageable for comfortable carry in the field. The thumbhole design improves ergonomics, providing a secure and natural grip.

The hardwood construction is crucial for durability and a classic aesthetic appeal, while the thumbhole design enhances comfort and control. The factory barrel channel ensures compatibility with the original rifle barrel. The two-piece floor plate preserves the original rifle’s design integrity.

Performance & Functionality

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock significantly enhances the rifle’s performance. The improved grip and ergonomics translate to better accuracy and recoil management. The solid construction provides a stable platform for consistent shot placement.

The stock’s design allows for comfortable shouldering and natural pointing, making it easier to acquire targets quickly and accurately. The fit is generally excellent, requiring minimal gunsmithing for most rifles. The stock performs its intended job admirably.

The strengths lie in its improved ergonomics and stability. The main weakness is the factory barrel channel, which may not accommodate aftermarket barrels without modification. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is well-designed with a focus on both aesthetics and functionality. The hardwood provides a classic look and a comfortable feel in the hand. The thumbhole design promotes a secure and natural grip.

The weight is balanced, ensuring the rifle remains comfortable to carry for extended periods. The smooth contours of the stock prevent snagging on clothing or gear. There is a slight learning curve associated with the thumbhole design, but most shooters will adapt quickly.

Durability & Maintenance

Constructed from high-quality hardwood, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is built to last. With proper care, it should provide many years of reliable service. The finish is durable and resistant to minor scratches and abrasions.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and polishing. Minor repairs, such as refinishing scratches, can be easily performed by a skilled gunsmith. The overall durability of this stock is high.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock does not come with any accessories. However, its classic design allows for easy customization with various aftermarket products. The stock can be easily fitted with a recoil pad to further reduce felt recoil.

Aftermarket sling swivel studs can be readily installed. Due to the factory barrel channel, replacing the barrel without modifying the stock is unlikely. The stock is generally compatible with Winchester 70 Pre-WWII accessories such as scope mounts and slings.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

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Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock?

This stock is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters looking to restore or upgrade their Winchester Model 70 Pre-WWII long action rifles. It’s also well-suited for individuals who appreciate classic firearms design and want to improve their rifle’s ergonomics and accuracy. This is a good fit for those seeking a balance of tradition and modern features.

Those who should skip this product are individuals planning to install a non-standard barrel profile. It’s also not ideal for those seeking a purely tactical or synthetic stock solution. Someone wanting a completely drop-in solution for a non-factory barrel should avoid this.

Must-have accessories or modifications would include a high-quality recoil pad for added comfort and sling swivel studs for convenient carry. A professional gunsmith may be needed if a custom barrel fit is desired.

Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is an excellent choice for enhancing a classic rifle. It offers a blend of classic aesthetics and modern ergonomics that improves both the look and performance of the firearm. At a price of $199.99, the value proposition is strong.

The improved grip, enhanced recoil management, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment. I would personally recommend this stock to anyone looking to breathe new life into their Winchester Model 70 Pre-WWII. It’s a great way to honor the past while enjoying a more comfortable and accurate shooting experience. If you’re looking to upgrade your rifle, consider the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock.