Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel is a drop-in replacement stock designed to breathe new life into your trusty Remington 700. Crafted by Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, this stock aims to provide a classic aesthetic with modern features like a full-length aluminum bedding block. For those seeking a balance of traditional looks and enhanced performance, this stock presents an interesting proposition.
I had a perfectly functional, but aesthetically challenged, synthetic stock on my Remington 700 BDL short action. It felt cheap and contributed little to the rifle’s overall appeal, and I longed for something that felt more solid and offered better grip in various weather conditions. The promise of improved accuracy, thanks to the bedding block, sealed the deal for me.
Upon unboxing, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter immediately impressed me with its heft. The wood felt solid and well-finished, and the forest camo pattern looked even better in person than online. This was a definite upgrade from the injection-molded plastic it was replacing.
I considered a few other options, including stocks from McMillan and Bell and Carlson. However, those were significantly more expensive, and I wanted something that retained a classic profile without venturing into high-tech, modern designs. The Boyds stock offered the desired aesthetic at a more palatable price point.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive, I was excited to get this stock installed and onto the range. The initial feel and appearance exceeded expectations, leaving me eager to see how it would perform in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter was at my local shooting range. I tested it in fairly mild conditions, about 60 degrees Fahrenheit and sunny, so I wasn’t able to test it in any extreme weather scenarios right away. The first few shots felt remarkably different than with the original stock.
The rifle felt more stable and the recoil seemed slightly reduced, likely due to the added weight and improved bedding. Getting used to the thicker grip took a few rounds, but the rifle felt very natural in my hands. There were no immediate issues, and the improvement in feel and stability was noticeable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a deer hunting trip and numerous range sessions, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter has proven to be a reliable upgrade. The forest camo finish has held up well, with only minor scratches despite some rough handling in the woods. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a damp cloth and occasional application of a wood preservative.
Compared to the original synthetic stock, the Boyds stock provides a significantly better shooting experience. The added weight dampens recoil, leading to more accurate follow-up shots. The improved grip, especially in wet conditions, inspires greater confidence.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel
Specifications
Manufacturer: Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks. Known for producing quality hardwood stocks at affordable prices.
Gun Type: Rifle. Specifically designed for bolt-action rifles.
Gun Make: Remington. One of the most popular rifle manufacturers in the world.
Gun Model: Remington Model 700. A ubiquitous and highly customizable bolt-action rifle.
Color: Forest Camo. Offers decent concealment in woodland environments.
Action Length: Short Action. Compatible with Remington 700 short action receivers.
Factory Barrel: Designed to accommodate factory barrel contours. This simplifies the installation process.
Full-Length Aluminum Bedding Block:** This is arguably the most important feature, providing a stable and consistent platform for the action, which can improve accuracy.
Integral Pistol Grip:** Offers a more secure and ergonomic hold compared to traditional sporter stocks.
These specifications are critical for a proper fit and function. The short action designation ensures it matches the receiver size, and the factory barrel accommodation means no gunsmithing is typically required. The aluminum bedding block is key to improving accuracy and consistency, while the forest camo offers functional concealment.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter excels in providing a more stable and comfortable shooting platform. The aluminum bedding block noticeably improves accuracy. I consistently achieved tighter groupings at 100 yards after installing the stock.
The stock is very functional, but it is not without minor drawbacks. The forest camo finish could be more durable, and the cheek weld might be too low for some shooters, requiring a cheek riser. It significantly exceeded my expectations given the price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter is well-designed, offering a classic aesthetic with modern ergonomic improvements. The wood feels solid and provides a good grip, even in wet conditions. The integral pistol grip enhances control.
The stock is user-friendly, requiring no special tools or gunsmithing skills for installation. The stock’s dimensions might not suit every shooter perfectly, but it provides a comfortable and secure feel for most users.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardwood construction of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter suggests a decent lifespan, but the finish might require occasional touch-ups. Proper care, including regular cleaning and application of a wood preservative, should extend its longevity. Replacing the stock is fairly straightforward, requiring only basic tools and some mechanical aptitude.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter doesn’t come with any accessories, but it readily accepts standard Remington 700 accessories. This includes scope mounts, slings, and bipods.
Customization options are limited to adding a cheek riser or aftermarket recoil pad. However, the stock’s primary purpose is to provide a more stable and ergonomic platform for the rifle, which it accomplishes effectively without requiring extensive modifications.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel
Pros
- Improved Accuracy:** The full-length aluminum bedding block provides a stable platform, leading to tighter groupings.
- Enhanced Ergonomics:** The integral pistol grip and comfortable forend offer a more secure and controlled shooting experience.
- Classic Aesthetic:** The hardwood construction and forest camo finish provide a traditional yet appealing look.
- Easy Installation:** Drop-in design requires no gunsmithing skills, simplifying the upgrade process.
- Affordable Price:** Offers excellent value compared to other aftermarket stocks with similar features.
Cons
- Finish Durability: The forest camo finish is prone to scratches and may require occasional touch-ups.
- Cheek Weld: The cheek weld might be too low for some shooters, potentially requiring a cheek riser.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter is perfect for hunters and recreational shooters seeking to improve the accuracy and ergonomics of their Remington 700 BDL short action rifle without breaking the bank. It’s ideal for those who appreciate a classic aesthetic and want a drop-in replacement that requires no gunsmithing.
Those who prioritize extreme durability or require a fully adjustable stock for precision shooting might want to explore other options. A must-have accessory for some users might be a cheek riser to achieve optimal eye alignment with their chosen optic.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 BDL Short Action Factory Barrel offers a compelling blend of classic aesthetics, improved ergonomics, and enhanced accuracy at an affordable price. While the finish might not be the most durable, and the cheek weld may require adjustment for some, the overall value proposition is undeniable.
At $199.99, the price is absolutely justified, given the performance gains and aesthetic improvement. I personally recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their Remington 700 without spending a fortune. Give your rifle a new lease on life, and experience the difference a quality stock can make!