Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/ is a drop-in replacement stock designed to breathe new life into the classic Remington 514 .22 rifle. Manufactured by Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, this stock promises enhanced ergonomics, improved accuracy potential, and a fresh, modern aesthetic to a beloved firearm. With its varmint-style design and natural/black finish, it’s a compelling option for shooters looking to upgrade their vintage rimfire rifle.
My own Remington 514 was showing its age, the original stock being battered and bruised from years of use and storage. I was searching for a stock that would not only improve the rifle’s appearance but also enhance its stability and accuracy for small game hunting and target practice. The Boyds Pro Varmint model stood out due to its reputation for quality and its design specifically tailored for precision shooting.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/. The weight felt substantial and well-balanced, suggesting a solid and stable platform for shooting. The natural wood grain, complemented by the black accents, gave it a classic yet modern look that I appreciated.
Compared to other aftermarket stocks, such as those made from synthetic materials or offering overly tactical features, the Boyds Pro Varmint offered a blend of traditional craftsmanship and practical design that appealed to me. I chose it over a cheaper synthetic option because I valued the feel and aesthetic of real wood, and I favored its ergonomic design over stocks aimed solely at tactical applications. My initial excitement stemmed from the potential to restore and enhance a cherished rifle with a stock that combines functionality with classic aesthetics.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/ to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/ took place at my local shooting range. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze – ideal conditions for sighting in the upgraded rifle. The most immediate improvement was the stability the stock provided, greatly reducing wobble and making it much easier to maintain a consistent sight picture.
The factory barrel channel fit my rifle perfectly, requiring no additional modification or bedding. Shooting from a rest was notably easier and more consistent, and even offhand shooting felt more natural due to the stock’s enhanced ergonomics. I experienced no immediate issues, and was pleased with the improvement to my shooting experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/ has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. There are no significant signs of wear and tear, even after several trips to the range and some light small game hunting. The finish has held up well, resisting scratches and dings.
Cleaning is straightforward – a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Compared to the original stock, the Boyds Pro Varmint feels significantly more robust and stable, inspiring confidence in its long-term reliability. It has definitely outperformed my expectations, transforming an old rifle into a joy to shoot.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/ is specifically designed for the Remington 514 .22 Short Action rifle. It is crafted from high-quality hardwood, providing a solid and durable platform. The factory barrel channel is pre-cut to accommodate the standard Remington 514 barrel, ensuring a drop-in fit with minimal gunsmithing required.
The stock features a varmint-style design with a wider forend for enhanced stability and a comfortable pistol grip for improved ergonomics. It is finished in a natural wood tone with black accents, offering a classic yet modern aesthetic. The short action designation ensures it’s precisely fitted for the shorter .22 action of the Remington 514, optimizing the rifle’s balance and handling. These specifications are crucial because they provide a stable shooting platform, improved accuracy, and an aesthetic upgrade over the original stock.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/ significantly improves the rifle’s accuracy and stability. The wider forend provides a stable platform for shooting from a rest or bipod, and the enhanced grip improves overall control. The drop-in fit ensures that the action is properly bedded, which contributes to improved shot-to-shot consistency.
The stock’s primary strength lies in its enhanced ergonomics and stability, making it easier to achieve consistent accuracy. A minor weakness might be that the hardwood, while durable, is still susceptible to damage from moisture and impacts if not properly cared for. Overall, it exceeds expectations by transforming a basic .22 rifle into a more accurate and enjoyable firearm.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/ is excellent. The hardwood feels solid and well-finished, and the black accents are seamlessly integrated into the design. The stock has a good weight, providing stability without being overly heavy, and the pistol grip is comfortable and ergonomic, promoting proper hand placement and trigger control.
The design is user-friendly, requiring minimal effort to install. The only learning curve might involve properly bedding the action for optimal accuracy, but this is a straightforward process that most shooters can accomplish with basic tools. The ergonomics are significantly improved compared to the original stock, making the rifle more comfortable and intuitive to shoot.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/ should last for many years. The hardwood is durable, but it should be protected from excessive moisture and impacts. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional application of a wood protectant will help maintain its finish and prevent warping or cracking.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. The stock does not require any specialized tools or procedures, and any minor scratches or dings can usually be repaired with basic woodworking techniques. Its robust construction and easy maintenance make it a practical choice for shooters seeking a long-lasting upgrade.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/ does not come with any included accessories beyond the stock itself. However, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including bipods, slings, and cheek risers. Shooters can also customize the stock by adding bedding compound for even greater accuracy or by refinishing it with a custom stain or finish.
The standard factory barrel channel can also be opened up slightly to accommodate heavier bull barrels, though this would require some gunsmithing skills. The compatibility with popular accessories allows shooters to tailor the rifle to their specific needs and preferences, enhancing its versatility and performance.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/
Pros
- Enhanced Accuracy: Provides a more stable shooting platform, resulting in improved shot-to-shot consistency.
- Improved Ergonomics: Comfortable pistol grip and wider forend enhance control and reduce fatigue.
- Durable Construction: High-quality hardwood ensures long-lasting performance and reliability.
- Aesthetic Upgrade: Natural wood finish with black accents gives the rifle a classic yet modern look.
- Drop-In Fit: Minimal gunsmithing required for installation.
Cons
- Wood Requires Care: Hardwood is susceptible to damage from moisture and impacts if not properly maintained.
- No Included Accessories: Does not come with bipods, slings, or other accessories.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/ is perfect for Remington 514 owners looking to restore or upgrade their rifle for improved accuracy and handling. It is also ideal for small game hunters and target shooters who value a stable and ergonomic shooting platform. This stock is a great choice for those who appreciate the look and feel of traditional wood stocks.
Those who should skip this product are shooters looking for a purely tactical or lightweight synthetic stock. This is a classic hardwood stock designed for enhanced stability and ergonomics, and it won’t appeal to those seeking ultra-lightweight or highly modular designs. Must-have accessories or modifications include a good quality bipod for benchrest shooting, and possibly some bedding compound to maximize accuracy.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington 514 .22 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Nat/ is an outstanding upgrade for the classic Remington 514 .22 rifle. It offers a significant improvement in accuracy, ergonomics, and aesthetics, transforming a basic firearm into a more enjoyable and capable shooter. The price is justified by the quality of the materials, the enhanced performance, and the overall value it brings to the shooting experience.
I would absolutely recommend it to anyone looking to breathe new life into their Remington 514. If you’re seeking a combination of classic design, improved stability, and enhanced accuracy, the Boyds Pro Varmint is an excellent choice. Upgrade your Remington 514 today and experience the difference a quality stock can make!