Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock is a meticulously crafted upgrade for your Winchester 70 rifle. This stock, manufactured by Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, promises enhanced ergonomics, improved accuracy, and a touch of modern styling to a classic platform. Its thumbhole design and featherweight construction aim to provide a comfortable and efficient shooting experience, while the factory barrel channel ensures a seamless fit for your existing barrel.
I’d been looking to upgrade the stock on my trusty Winchester 70 for some time. The original stock, while functional, felt a little bulky and lacked the ergonomic features I desired for longer hunting trips. I was searching for something that would not only improve my grip and stability but also reduce the overall weight of the rifle.
Upon unboxing the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock, my first impression was of the beautiful wood grain and smooth finish. The thumbhole design felt immediately comfortable, and the stock’s weight was noticeably lighter than the original. The build quality appeared excellent, with tight tolerances and a solid feel.
I considered a few other options, including synthetic stocks from Manners and laminated stocks from Ruger. However, I ultimately chose the Boyds stock for its combination of traditional aesthetics, ergonomic design, and reasonable price point. I was hoping for a significant improvement in both the rifle’s handling and its overall appearance.
My initial impression was definitely excitement. The stock looked fantastic and felt great in my hands. I was eager to install it and see how it performed at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock at my local shooting range. The weather was sunny with a slight breeze, ideal conditions for zeroing in my rifle. I wanted to test the comfort of the thumbhole during extended shooting sessions.
The thumbhole design immediately proved its worth, providing a very secure and comfortable grip. Recoil felt noticeably reduced, and my groups tightened up compared to shooting with the factory stock. After about 50 rounds, I experienced no hand fatigue.
Installation was simple enough, though getting the action seated perfectly required a little patience. No major issues arose, and the rifle felt solid and balanced after installation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a deer hunting trip and numerous range sessions, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock has held up remarkably well. The finish remains pristine, showing no significant signs of wear and tear. The wood hasn’t warped or cracked, even after exposure to varying temperatures and humidity levels.
Cleaning is straightforward, requiring only a damp cloth and occasional application of a wood preservative. The stock has consistently provided a stable and comfortable shooting platform. It noticeably outperforms the original stock in terms of recoil management and overall comfort during extended use.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock is specifically designed for Winchester 70 short action rifles with a 2-piece floor plate. It fits factory barrel channels, ensuring easy installation and compatibility. The stock is crafted from hardwood, providing a blend of durability and classic aesthetics.
- Gun Model Compatibility: Specifically designed for Winchester 70 Short Action, Sears Model 53A, Sears Ted Williams Model 73, Sears Model 53, and Winchester Model 70. This ensures a precise fit and proper function.
- Floor Plate Compatibility: Designed for a 2-piece floor plate system, providing secure magazine retention and smooth operation. The 2-piece design allows for easier removal and maintenance of the magazine components.
- Barrel Channel: The factory barrel channel is pre-cut to accommodate standard factory barrels. This eliminates the need for additional gunsmithing or modifications.
- Thumbhole Design: The thumbhole design enhances ergonomics and provides a secure, comfortable grip. This leads to improved control and accuracy.
- Featherweight Construction: This lighter weight reduces overall rifle weight. This is ideal for long hunting trips where carrying weight is a consideration.
These specifications are vital because they directly influence the stock’s fit, function, and overall shooting experience. The compatibility with specific rifle models and floor plate systems ensures proper installation and reliable performance. The factory barrel channel simplifies the upgrade process, while the thumbhole design and featherweight construction enhance comfort and control.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock excels in improving the overall shooting experience. Its ergonomic design contributes to enhanced accuracy and comfort. The thumbhole provides a secure grip, allowing for better control and reduced recoil impact.
The stock significantly improves the rifle’s handling, making it more comfortable to carry and shoot. One area that could be improved is the finish, which, while attractive, might benefit from a more durable coating to withstand harsh weather conditions. However, it certainly meets and, in some cases, exceeds expectations, especially considering its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock is built with high-quality hardwood. The stock feels solid and well-balanced. Its weight is noticeably less than the original factory stock, making it more comfortable to carry for extended periods.
The thumbhole design provides a natural and comfortable grip, accommodating a wide range of hand sizes. The design is user-friendly, with no significant learning curve. Even novice shooters will find it easy to adapt to the enhanced ergonomics.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock should last for many years. Regular cleaning and occasional application of a wood preservative will help maintain its finish and structural integrity. Maintaining the stock is easy, requiring only basic cleaning supplies and a few minutes of time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock does not come with any included accessories. However, it is compatible with various aftermarket accessories. These include recoil pads and sling swivel studs.
The stock can also be further customized with bedding compounds for enhanced accuracy. Users can also refinish the stock with custom stains or protective coatings.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Pros
- Enhanced Ergonomics: The thumbhole design provides a secure and comfortable grip.
- Improved Accuracy: Better control and stability lead to tighter groupings.
- Reduced Recoil: The ergonomic design helps to absorb and distribute recoil more effectively.
- Lightweight Construction: The featherweight design reduces overall rifle weight, making it easier to carry.
- Easy Installation: The factory barrel channel ensures a seamless fit for most standard barrels.
Cons
- Finish Durability: The finish, while attractive, could be more resistant to scratches and wear.
- Limited Customization: While compatible with some accessories, direct customization options are limited.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock is perfect for hunters seeking a more comfortable and accurate shooting experience. It is ideal for those who want to upgrade their Winchester 70 rifle with a stock that offers improved ergonomics and reduced weight. This stock is also great for recreational shooters who appreciate the aesthetics and feel of a classic hardwood stock with a modern thumbhole design.
Those who prioritize extreme durability and weather resistance in a stock might consider alternatives, such as synthetic stocks. Individuals looking for extensive customization options or adjustable features might also find this stock lacking. A must-have modification would be adding a quality recoil pad for enhanced comfort during extended shooting sessions.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Overall, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Winchester 70 Short Action 2-Piece Floor Plate Factory Barrel Channel Stock is a worthwhile upgrade for any Winchester 70 owner. It provides a noticeable improvement in ergonomics, accuracy, and overall shooting comfort. The price is justified by the quality of the materials and the enhanced performance it delivers.
I would definitely recommend this stock to anyone looking to breathe new life into their Winchester 70 rifle. It offers a blend of classic aesthetics and modern design. Upgrade your rifle and experience the difference for yourself!