Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock offers an opportunity to enhance the performance and aesthetics of a popular rimfire rifle. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks is known for providing quality aftermarket stocks, blending functionality with improved ergonomics and a touch of personalization. This particular stock is designed specifically for the Mossberg International 817 short action rifle, aiming to offer a more stable and accurate platform for varmint hunting or target shooting.
I’ve always been a proponent of maximizing the potential of my firearms. The factory stock on my Mossberg 817, while functional, always felt a bit lacking in terms of stability and ergonomics, especially during longer range sessions. I was seeking a stock that could provide a more solid foundation for accuracy, improve handling, and perhaps add a touch of visual appeal.
Upon unboxing the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock, I was immediately impressed by the heft and apparent quality of the hardwood. The stock feels substantial and well-made, offering a sense of solidity that the original synthetic stock lacked. The finish is smooth and even, suggesting careful attention to detail during the manufacturing process.
I considered options from other manufacturers like Bell and Carlson, known for their synthetic stocks, and some laminate wood offerings from Stocky’s Stocks. Ultimately, I chose the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock for its combination of traditional hardwood aesthetics, favorable reviews regarding fit and accuracy, and its specific design for the 817 action. It seemed to offer the best balance of features and value for my needs.
My first impression was one of cautious excitement. While I appreciated the apparent quality and design, I was eager to see how it would perform in the field and whether it would truly deliver on its promise of improved accuracy and handling.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock primarily at my local shooting range, focusing on benchrest accuracy at 50 and 100 yards. The weather was mild and dry, ideal conditions for evaluating the stock’s performance. I also took it out on a quick groundhog hunt.
The stock provided a noticeable improvement in stability compared to the original. The wider forend and more vertical grip allowed for a more comfortable and consistent hold, translating to tighter groupings on paper. No significant adjustments were needed after the initial installation; it felt almost immediately natural.
The only initial issue was a slight tightness around the action screws, requiring a bit of finesse to torque them properly. This was easily resolved with careful tightening and checking for free-floating barrel movement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock has held up admirably. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being exposed to varying temperatures and occasional bumps during transport. The finish remains intact and the stock retains its structural integrity.
The durability has proven to be excellent. I’ve taken it through some light brush while hunting, and the finish is surprisingly resistant to scratches. Cleaning is a breeze, typically requiring just a wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime.
Compared to my previous experiences with less rigid synthetic stocks, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock offers a superior shooting experience. The improved stability and ergonomics have consistently led to better accuracy and more comfortable shooting sessions.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Specifications
- Gun Type: Rifle. This stock is specifically designed for rifles, not shotguns or pistols.
- Gun Make: Mossberg. It ensures compatibility with Mossberg rifle actions.
- Gun Model: Mossberg Model International 817. This specifies the precise rifle model for which the stock is intended.
- Color: Black. This denotes the color of the stock finish.
- Action Length: Short Action. This indicates that the stock is designed for short action receivers, which are common in smaller caliber rifles.
- The stock is also constructed from high-quality hardwood. This provides a balance of durability, stability, and classic aesthetics.
- The factory barrel channel is pre-cut. This allows for easy installation without the need for additional gunsmithing for most factory barrels.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate the fit and compatibility of the stock with the Mossberg 817 rifle. The correct action length and barrel channel ensures a seamless and secure installation, while the material and finish contribute to the stock’s durability and overall performance.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock significantly improves the accuracy and stability of the Mossberg 817 rifle. The rigid hardwood construction provides a solid foundation for consistent shooting.
The wider forend offers a comfortable and stable platform for resting on sandbags or other supports, making it ideal for varmint hunting and target shooting. The more vertical grip promotes a more natural and ergonomic hand position, reducing fatigue and improving trigger control.
One potential weakness is the lack of an adjustable cheek rest. While the stock height is suitable for most users with low-mounted optics, those with higher-mounted scopes may need to add a cheek riser for optimal eye alignment. The stock exceeds expectations for an aftermarket option.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The hardwood is well-finished and the stock feels substantial and durable.
The design is user-friendly, with a drop-in fit that requires minimal modification for most rifles. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is built to last. The hardwood construction and durable finish can withstand years of regular use.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional application of a wood protectant will keep the stock in optimal condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The stock itself doesn’t come with any accessories, but it’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories. This includes sling swivels, bipods, and cheek risers.
The stock is designed to accommodate the factory barrel channel, but some users may choose to bed the action for even greater accuracy. This customization does require some gunsmithing experience.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Pros
- Improved Accuracy: The rigid hardwood construction provides a more stable shooting platform, leading to tighter groupings.
- Enhanced Ergonomics: The wider forend and more vertical grip offer a more comfortable and natural shooting position.
- Durable Construction: The high-quality hardwood and durable finish ensure long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: The drop-in fit requires minimal modification, making it easy for most users to install.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The classic hardwood design adds a touch of visual appeal to the Mossberg 817 rifle.
Cons
- Lack of Adjustable Cheek Rest: May require a cheek riser for users with higher-mounted optics.
- Wood can be sensitive to moisture: Requires some care to prevent swelling or warping.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is perfect for varmint hunters and target shooters seeking to improve the accuracy and handling of their Mossberg 817 rifle. It’s also an excellent choice for those who appreciate the classic look and feel of a hardwood stock.
Those seeking a stock with an adjustable cheek rest or prefer the lighter weight and weather resistance of a synthetic stock should skip this product. This stock is also not ideal for those uncomfortable with basic firearm disassembly and assembly.
Must-have accessories include sling swivels for carrying the rifle, a bipod for prone shooting, and potentially a cheek riser for optimal eye alignment with a scope. Action bedding is also an optional modification.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Mossberg Intl 817 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is a worthwhile upgrade for Mossberg 817 owners looking to enhance their rifle’s performance and aesthetics. It offers a noticeable improvement in accuracy, ergonomics, and durability compared to the factory stock.
The price is justified given the quality of materials and construction, as well as the tangible benefits in terms of shooting performance. It’s a significant upgrade for under $200.
I would personally recommend this stock to anyone seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing upgrade for their Mossberg 817. Transform your Mossberg 817 into a more accurate and enjoyable shooting platform today!