Let’s Dive into Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock is a replacement stock designed for Remington 700 BDL long action rifles, crafted by Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks. It’s intended to offer improved ergonomics and a more personalized feel compared to factory synthetic stocks, all while maintaining a classic aesthetic.
My interest in this stock stemmed from a desire to improve the handling and feel of my aging Remington 700. The original synthetic stock felt cheap and lacked the solid connection I wanted between the rifle and myself.
Upon unboxing the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock, I was immediately struck by the quality of the wood and the overall finish. The weight felt substantial, instilling confidence in its durability.
Compared to other aftermarket stocks, like those from Bell and Carlson (known for their composite stocks) or Magpul (offering more tactical options), the Boyds Prairie Hunter stands out with its traditional design and emphasis on natural materials. I chose the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock for its classic look and the promise of a more comfortable, stable shooting platform.
My first impression was one of excitement. This was a significant upgrade, a step towards a more refined and enjoyable shooting experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock at my local shooting range and on a subsequent deer hunting trip in the Appalachian foothills. The weather conditions ranged from sunny and mild to cold and drizzly.
The stock’s design provided a noticeably more stable and comfortable shooting experience in all tested conditions. The fit to my action was tight and secure, minimizing movement and improving shot-to-shot consistency.
Initially, the slightly higher comb took a few shots to get used to, but after a short adjustment period, it proved to be a significant improvement over the original stock. One initial issue was the need for some minor bedding to achieve perfect barrel floatation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking or warping.
The finish has proven to be quite durable, with only minor scratches from handling in the field, easily buffed out. Cleaning consists mainly of wiping down the stock with a damp cloth and applying a light coat of oil occasionally to maintain the wood’s natural luster.
Compared to my previous experiences with synthetic stocks, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock is a clear winner in terms of both feel and aesthetics. It has elevated the overall shooting experience of my Remington 700.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock is specifically designed for the Remington 700 BDL Long Action. This ensures a proper fit and function with that specific action.
It features a factory barrel channel with dimensions of: Point A = 1 1/4″ and Point B = 25/32″. These dimensions accommodate standard factory barrels without requiring additional modifications.
The center-to-center distance of the action screws is 7 3/8″. This is a critical measurement for ensuring proper action bedding and secure attachment of the stock.
The overall length of the stock is 31 1/2″. This contributes to the rifle’s overall balance and handling characteristics.
It comes with a Boyds‘ 1/2″ Rubber Recoil Pad. This helps to mitigate felt recoil, improving shooter comfort and control.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock enhances accuracy by providing a stable and consistent platform for the action. The rigid wood construction minimizes flex.
Its ergonomic design improves handling and comfort, allowing for a more natural and repeatable shooting position. The slight palm swell and well-defined grip area provide excellent control.
The stock meets expectations and surpasses the performance of the original synthetic stock. It provides a tangible improvement in shooting comfort and accuracy.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, featuring a solid hardwood construction with a smooth, even finish. The weight adds a feeling of stability and quality to the rifle.
The design is user-friendly, requiring only basic gunsmithing skills for installation. The ergonomics are well-thought-out, providing a comfortable and secure grip for a wide range of hand sizes.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardwood construction suggests excellent durability. With proper care, the stock should last for many years.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling to protect the wood. Minor scratches can be easily buffed out.
Accessories and Customization Options
The stock itself doesn’t come with additional accessories beyond the recoil pad. However, it is compatible with standard Remington 700 BDL accessories.
Aftermarket cheek risers and adjustable recoil pads can be added for further customization. It accepts standard sling swivel studs for attaching slings and bipods.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock
Pros
- Improved Accuracy: The rigid wood construction provides a more stable platform for the action, leading to improved shot-to-shot consistency.
- Enhanced Ergonomics: The well-designed grip and palm swell offer a more comfortable and secure shooting experience.
- Classic Aesthetics: The hardwood construction adds a touch of elegance and tradition to any Remington 700.
- Increased Durability: The solid hardwood construction provides excellent resistance to wear and tear.
- Affordable Upgrade: At its price point, it offers a significant improvement over factory synthetic stocks without breaking the bank.
Cons
- Wood is susceptible to environmental factors.
- Requires basic gunsmithing skills for installation.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock?
Perfect for hunters looking to improve the feel and accuracy of their Remington 700 BDL long action rifles. It also works well for shooters who appreciate the classic look and feel of a wood stock.
Those who prioritize ultra-lightweight builds or require highly weather-resistant materials might want to skip this product. This is because composite stocks are better suited for these situations.
A gunsmith-installed bedding job is a must-have modification to maximize accuracy potential. This ensures a perfect fit between the action and the stock.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock is an excellent upgrade for Remington 700 owners seeking improved accuracy, ergonomics, and aesthetics. It breathes new life into an old rifle.
The price is more than justified by the enhanced shooting experience and overall quality of the product. It’s a solid value proposition for shooters who appreciate craftsmanship and performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this stock to anyone looking to upgrade their Remington 700 BDL long action rifle. Consider the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Long Action Rifle Stock if you want to transform your rifle.