Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Factbory Barrel Channel Stock Review

Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Factbory Barrel Channel Stock

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Factbory Barrel Channel Stock is more than just a replacement stock; it’s a statement. It’s a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality, designed to breathe new life into your trusted Ruger 77 MKII. With its Forest Camo finish and meticulous craftsmanship, this stock promises to enhance both the look and feel of your rifle.

My Ruger 77 MKII has been a faithful companion for years, but the factory stock had seen better days, suffering from wear and tear accumulated from countless hunts. I needed a durable, aesthetically pleasing replacement that would also improve my grip and overall shooting experience. I opted for the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter because of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks’s reputation for quality and the promise of a perfect fit for my Ruger.

Unboxing the stock, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the hardwood and the richness of the Forest Camo finish. The checkering felt aggressive yet comfortable, promising a secure grip even in adverse conditions. The weight felt balanced, suggesting a positive impact on the rifle’s overall handling.

Compared to other aftermarket stocks I considered – composite options from Hogue and laminated stocks from Revolution – the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter stood out for its traditional appeal and promise of a more natural feel. The composite stocks felt too sterile, while the Revolution stocks lacked the classic lines I was seeking. The choice was clear; Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks offered the perfect blend of form and function.

I was excited to see how the new stock would transform my Ruger. The initial impression was overwhelmingly positive, a feeling of renewed confidence in my favorite hunting rifle. It was time to put it to the test.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Factbory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter was a deer hunt in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania. The weather was typical for late fall: cold, damp, and unpredictable. I immediately noticed the improved grip in the wet conditions, thanks to the aggressive checkering.

The stock felt incredibly natural in my hands, allowing for quick and comfortable shouldering of the rifle. Recoil felt more manageable compared to the old synthetic stock. There were no unexpected issues; the stock performed flawlessly from the very first shot.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter has proven to be exceptionally durable. Despite being exposed to rain, snow, and the occasional accidental bump against rocks and trees, the finish remains remarkably intact. A bit of gun oil and a wipe-down after each use has kept the stock looking and feeling like new.

Maintaining the stock is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional application of a quality wood preservative is all it takes to keep it in top condition. Compared to my previous experiences with synthetic stocks that often felt slippery when wet, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter offers a significant improvement in grip and control. It undoubtedly outperforms its predecessor.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Factbory Barrel Channel Stock

Specifications

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Factbory Barrel Channel Stock boasts several key specifications:

• It is specifically designed for the Ruger 77 MKII Short Action rifle. This ensures a perfect fit and eliminates the need for extensive gunsmithing.
• The stock features a Factory Barrel Channel. This accommodates the standard barrel profile of the Ruger 77 MKII, allowing for drop-in installation.
• The Forest Camo finish provides excellent concealment in wooded environments. It also adds a touch of classic style to the rifle.
• It is crafted from high-quality hardwood. This offers enhanced durability and a more natural feel compared to synthetic stocks.
• Designed for Short Action rifles. Guarantees a precise and secure fit to the specified action length.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the fit, function, and overall performance of the rifle. A proper fit ensures consistent accuracy and reliable cycling. The hardwood construction provides increased durability and a more comfortable shooting experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter excels in both performance and functionality. The improved grip enhances control, resulting in more accurate shots. The stock’s design promotes comfortable shouldering and reduces felt recoil.

The only potential downside is the weight. Hardwood stocks tend to be slightly heavier than synthetic alternatives. Despite this, the benefits far outweigh this minor drawback. It undeniably meets and exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is exceptional. The hardwood is meticulously shaped and finished, resulting in a stock that is both aesthetically pleasing and incredibly comfortable to hold. The stock is user-friendly.

Installation is simple. Anyone with basic gunsmithing skills can easily swap out their old stock with the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter.

Durability & Maintenance

The hardwood construction ensures that the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintaining the stock is simple; regular cleaning and occasional application of wood preservative are all that’s needed.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, its design allows for easy integration with various aftermarket accessories.

The stock is compatible with most standard sling swivel studs. This facilitates the attachment of slings and bipods. It also allows for the addition of cheek risers to fine-tune the fit for specific optics.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Factbory Barrel Channel Stock