Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC is more than just a piece of wood; it’s a transformation for your rifle. Specifically designed for the Springfield 120A Short Action, this stock promises enhanced ergonomics and a fresh aesthetic. The “At One” Thumbhole design is what immediately grabbed my attention, offering a blend of classic style and modern functionality.
My Springfield 120A, a reliable old friend passed down from my grandfather, felt…tired. The original stock was showing its age, and frankly, it wasn’t the most comfortable for extended shooting sessions. I needed something that could breathe new life into the rifle while also improving my shooting experience.
Upon unboxing the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC, I was immediately struck by the Applejack laminate finish. The colors were vibrant and the wood felt solid and well-crafted. The thumbhole design felt natural in my hand, a welcome change from the standard stock.
I considered other options, like a synthetic stock from Hogue or a traditional walnut stock from Numrich Gun Parts. Ultimately, I chose the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC for its unique thumbhole design and the promise of a comfortable, secure grip. Plus, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks name carries a reputation for quality that I trusted.
Initially, I was excited and cautiously optimistic. I was eager to see if this stock could truly improve my shooting accuracy and overall enjoyment of my Springfield 120A.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC was at my local shooting range, under relatively mild weather conditions. I wanted to get a feel for the stock in a controlled environment before taking it out into the field. The thumbhole design provided a noticeably more secure and stable grip compared to the original stock.
The increased stability translated directly into improved accuracy. After a few adjustments to my scope, I was consistently hitting tighter groupings than I had before. The ergonomics of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC made it easier to maintain a consistent shooting position.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a couple of deer hunting trips in varying weather conditions, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC has held up remarkably well. I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear, despite exposure to rain, mud, and the occasional accidental bump against trees. The laminate finish seems to be quite durable and resistant to scratches.
Cleaning the stock is also straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and grime. Compared to my previous experience with the factory stock, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC is a clear winner in terms of comfort, stability, and overall shooting performance. It has definitely exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC is crafted from laminated hardwood, offering a balance of strength and aesthetic appeal. It is specifically designed as a drop-in replacement stock for the Springfield 120A Short Action rifle.
The Factory Barrel Channel (FBC) designation indicates that the stock is designed to accommodate the standard factory barrel profile. This eliminates the need for any additional gunsmithing or modification to the barrel. The stock is also finished, meaning it comes with a protective coating applied, although further customization with stains or finishes is still possible. The short action specification is critical, as using a stock designed for a long action on a short action rifle (or vice-versa) would be unsafe and non-functional.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC significantly enhances the functionality of the Springfield 120A. The thumbhole design provides a more secure and ergonomic grip, leading to improved control and accuracy. The rigidity of the laminated wood also helps to dampen recoil, contributing to a more comfortable shooting experience.
One minor drawback is that the Applejack finish, while visually appealing, might be too flashy for some hunters who prefer a more subdued look. However, this is a purely aesthetic consideration and does not affect the stock’s performance. Overall, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC meets and exceeds expectations in terms of functionality and performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC strikes a good balance between classic aesthetics and modern ergonomics. The laminated hardwood construction feels solid and substantial, without being excessively heavy. The thumbhole design is well-executed, providing a comfortable and natural grip for most hand sizes.
The checkering on the grip and forend enhances grip texture. This improved grip ensures a firm hold even in wet or cold conditions. While some may prefer a more aggressive texture, the existing checkering is adequate for most users.
Durability & Maintenance
The laminated hardwood construction of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC offers excellent durability. The laminate layers are bonded together with strong adhesives, making the stock resistant to warping, cracking, and other forms of damage. With proper care, this stock should last for many years.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A regular wipe-down with a damp cloth is typically all that’s needed to keep the stock clean and looking its best. For more stubborn stains, a mild soap and water solution can be used.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC is primarily designed as a direct replacement stock, so it doesn’t come with many accessories. However, the stock can be further customized with a variety of aftermarket accessories, such as sling swivel studs, cheek risers, and recoil pads. The standard sling swivel studs can be easily installed using basic hand tools.
The Applejack finish can also be further customized with stains, oils, or other protective coatings, allowing users to tailor the stock to their individual preferences. Compatibility with aftermarket accessories is generally good, as the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC adheres to standard dimensions for the Springfield 120A Short Action.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC
Pros
- Enhanced Ergonomics: The thumbhole design offers a more comfortable and secure grip compared to traditional stocks.
- Improved Accuracy: The increased stability and control lead to tighter groupings.
- Durable Construction: The laminated hardwood construction is resistant to warping, cracking, and other forms of damage.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The Applejack finish adds a touch of style and elegance to the rifle.
- Easy Installation: The drop-in design makes installation quick and easy, with no gunsmithing required.
Cons
- Applejack Finish is Subjective: The bright Applejack finish may not appeal to all users.
- Limited Customization Options Out of the Box: The stock doesn’t come with many accessories included.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC is perfect for Springfield 120A owners looking to enhance the ergonomics, accuracy, and aesthetics of their rifle. It’s particularly well-suited for hunters and recreational shooters who prioritize comfort and control. Someone who is looking for a significant upgrade from a factory stock will appreciate this product.
Those who prefer a more traditional stock design or who require a highly customizable stock with a wide range of integrated features might want to skip this product. If you prefer a truly tactical build with Picatinny rails or adjustable cheek rests built in, this might not be for you. A must-have modification would be sling swivel studs if your rifle doesn’t already have them.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Springfield 120A Short Action FBC is an excellent upgrade for the Springfield 120A Short Action rifle. It provides a significant improvement in ergonomics, accuracy, and aesthetics, all at a reasonable price. At $269.99, the price is justified given the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and the tangible improvement in shooting performance.
I would personally recommend this stock to anyone looking to breathe new life into their Springfield 120A. Don’t just settle for a functional rifle; make it an extension of yourself. Upgrade your stock and experience the difference.