Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel is more than just a replacement stock; it’s an opportunity to breathe new life and improved ergonomics into a classic rifle. Designed by Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, this stock caters to the left-handed shooter with a right-handed action, a specific niche often overlooked in the firearms industry. Its hardwood construction promises durability and a traditional aesthetic, while the Prairie Hunter design hints at enhanced comfort and control in the field.
I embarked on this journey because my trusty Winchester 670, a rifle passed down through generations, was showing its age. The original stock, warped and cracked from years of exposure, needed replacing, and as a left-handed shooter, my options were limited. I needed a stock that not only restored the rifle’s functionality but also offered a comfortable and secure fit for my shooting style.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the sheer quality of the wood. It felt solid and well-crafted, promising a significant upgrade over the decaying synthetic stock it was replacing. The fit and finish looked excellent, and the contouring of the Prairie Hunter design felt immediately comfortable in my hands.
I considered stocks from Manners and McMillan, known for their high-end synthetic options, but ultimately, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks product won me over due to its combination of traditional aesthetics, left-hand-specific design, and attractive price point. The other options, while excellent, felt like overkill for a hunting rifle that sees more time in the woods than on a competitive range. I also looked at a Hogue overmolded stock, but the Boyd’s hardwood had a more traditional feel that I appreciated.
My first impression was one of excited anticipation. This wasn’t just a replacement part; it felt like a revitalization project for a rifle with significant sentimental value. I was eager to get it installed and see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter during a deer hunting trip in the rugged terrain of the Appalachian Mountains. The weather was unpredictable, ranging from crisp, dry mornings to damp, drizzly afternoons. The varied conditions provided an excellent proving ground for the new stock.
The stock performed admirably in all conditions. Even when wet, the hardwood provided a surprisingly secure grip, offering significantly better handling than the slick, deteriorating synthetic stock it replaced. I was genuinely impressed by how well the wood retained its tactile feel, even when damp.
Getting accustomed to the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter was effortless. The ergonomics felt natural and intuitive, enhancing my shooting experience from the very first shot. The palm swell and well-defined cheek rest offered improved comfort and a more consistent cheek weld, positively affecting my accuracy.
After my first hunting trip, I was relieved to find no immediate issues. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter held up well to the environmental challenges, and the installation went off without a hitch. The enhanced grip and ergonomics led to tighter groupings, and I felt more confident with my rifle than I had in years.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter continues to impress. It has proven remarkably durable, showing no signs of cracking or warping despite repeated exposure to various weather conditions and rough handling in the field. The finish has held up well, resisting scratches and dings.
The stock shows minimal signs of wear and tear. The checkering remains sharp and provides excellent grip, and the finish still looks relatively new. I’ve noticed a few minor scuffs, but they are barely noticeable and add character rather than detract from the stock’s appearance.
Maintaining the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient to keep it clean. I occasionally apply a coat of gunstock wax to protect the wood and enhance its appearance.
Compared to my previous experiences with synthetic stocks, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter offers a vastly superior feel and aesthetic appeal. Its performance has significantly exceeded my expectations, providing a perfect balance of traditional craftsmanship and modern ergonomics. It offers a much more satisfying feel in the hand compared to the old, plastic stock.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks. Known for their quality hardwood stocks and affordable prices.
- Gun Type: Rifle. Specifically designed for bolt-action rifles.
- Gun Make: Winchester. One of the most reputable gun makers.
- Gun Model: Winchester Model 670. A classic hunting rifle known for its simplicity and reliability.
- Action Length: Long Action. Accommodates longer cartridges, typically used in hunting rifles.
- Hand: Left. Specifically designed for left-handed shooters for comfortable ergonomics.
- Action: Right Hand Action. Designed to mate with right-handed actions.
- Additional Features: Finished. Arrives ready to install, with a protective finish.
- Style: Prairie Hunter. Features a comfortable cheek rest and palm swell.
- Floor Plate: No Floor Plate. Designed for rifles without a detachable magazine floor plate, simplifying the design.
- Barrel Channel: Factory Barrel Channel. Pre-cut channel to accommodate a factory standard barrel contour.
- Material: Hardwood. Provides a classic look and feel with good durability.
- Finish: A durable coating, protects the wood from the elements and wear. This is important for longevity.
These specifications are critical because they dictate the compatibility, functionality, and overall user experience of the stock. The left-hand configuration ensures comfortable handling for left-handed shooters, while the long action length ensures compatibility with the Winchester 670 rifle. The “No Floor Plate” design is essential for rifles without a detachable magazine floor plate, simplifying the installation process. Finally, the factory barrel channel ensures a proper fit for a standard factory barrel, improving accuracy and consistency.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a stable and comfortable platform for shooting, enhancing accuracy and recoil absorption. The stock fits the Winchester 670 action perfectly, requiring minimal fitting, if any.
Its strengths include its comfortable ergonomics, solid construction, and enhanced accuracy. One area for possible improvement is the inclusion of pillar bedding, which would enhance accuracy even further.
This stock exceeded my expectations. It is much better than the original stock that came with the rifle.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with tight tolerances and a smooth finish. The hardwood feels solid and substantial, inspiring confidence in its durability. The Prairie Hunter design offers exceptional ergonomics, with a comfortable palm swell and a well-defined cheek rest.
It is extremely user-friendly. Installation was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and minimal gunsmithing knowledge. The intuitive design and comfortable grip make it a pleasure to use in the field.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, it can easily last for decades. The hardwood construction is resistant to cracking and warping, and the finish provides ample protection against the elements. With proper care, it can easily last for decades.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional application of gunstock wax are sufficient to keep it in excellent condition. There are no complicated parts or mechanisms that require specialized maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The stock itself doesn’t come with any accessories, but it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories designed for the Winchester 670, such as recoil pads and sling swivels. Adding a quality recoil pad can further reduce felt recoil, while sling swivels allow for easy carrying in the field.
While the stock is designed for a factory barrel, it can be modified to accommodate larger aftermarket barrels with some gunsmithing. This offers additional customization options for shooters seeking to improve their rifle’s accuracy and performance. The factory barrel channel is generous enough to allow for some minor adjustments.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
Pros
- Ergonomic Design: The Prairie Hunter design offers a comfortable grip and improved cheek weld, enhancing shooting accuracy.
- High-Quality Hardwood: The durable hardwood construction provides excellent strength and a classic aesthetic.
- Left-Hand Specific: Specifically designed for left-handed shooters, ensuring comfortable and intuitive handling.
- Easy Installation: The stock is designed for drop-in installation, requiring minimal gunsmithing knowledge.
- Affordable Price: Provides excellent value for the money, offering high-quality features at a reasonable price.
Cons
- No Pillar Bedding: The lack of pillar bedding may limit accuracy potential for some shooters.
- Basic Finish: The finish is functional but may not appeal to those seeking a high-gloss or custom finish.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter is perfect for left-handed hunters seeking a comfortable, durable, and affordable replacement stock for their Winchester 670 rifle. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate the classic look and feel of hardwood and want to restore or upgrade their rifle’s functionality.
This product may not be the best choice for competitive shooters seeking ultimate accuracy or those who prefer high-end synthetic stocks with advanced features like adjustable cheek rests and bedding blocks. Those seeking the utmost in lightweight designs should also look elsewhere.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality recoil pad to further reduce felt recoil and enhance shooting comfort. Adding sling swivels is also recommended for easy carrying in the field.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
In summary, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel is an excellent choice for left-handed shooters looking to upgrade or restore their Winchester 670 rifle. It offers a combination of comfortable ergonomics, durable construction, and classic aesthetics at an affordable price.
The price is absolutely justified considering the quality of the materials, the left-hand-specific design, and the enhanced shooting experience it provides. It represents a significant value for the money, offering a level of quality and performance that exceeds its price point.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this stock to any left-handed Winchester 670 owner seeking a reliable, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing upgrade. If you’re ready to breathe new life into your rifle and enhance your shooting experience, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter is an investment you won’t regret. Transform your rifle today!