Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Classic Savage A17 Semi Auto Detachable Box Mag LH Stk RH Act Heavy BC
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Classic Savage A17 Semi Auto Detachable Box Mag LH Stk RH Act Heavy BC is a replacement stock designed to enhance the ergonomics and aesthetics of your Savage A17 rifle. This particular model caters to left-handed shooters using a right-hand action and is specifically crafted for heavy barrel contours. What really caught my attention was the promise of improved handling and the classic look of a hardwood stock, something that often feels missing from modern, polymer-heavy rifle designs.
I was looking for a way to both personalize and improve the feel of my Savage A17, which I primarily use for varmint hunting. The factory stock felt a bit generic and lacked the solid, substantial feel I prefer. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock seemed like the perfect solution.
Unboxing the stock was a pleasant surprise. The forest camo finish was well-applied, and the wood felt solid and well-finished. The weight was immediately noticeable; it felt significantly heavier than the factory synthetic stock, which I expected and frankly, desired. The build quality felt excellent, with no visible flaws in the wood or finish.
I considered a couple of other options, including a similar stock from a different manufacturer, and a chassis system. However, I opted for the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock due to its classic aesthetic, positive reviews regarding fit and finish, and the fact that it was specifically designed for the A17 with a heavy barrel. I also liked that it maintained the classic rifle profile rather than going for a more modern, tactical look.
My first impression was excitement. I was eager to get it installed and see how it transformed the feel and performance of my rifle. I immediately appreciated the solid feel and knew this stock would be a significant upgrade.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Classic Savage A17 Semi Auto Detachable Box Mag LH Stk RH Act Heavy BC to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock primarily at my local shooting range. It offers various distances suitable for the Savage A17’s .17 HMR caliber. The weather was slightly overcast, but dry, providing ideal conditions for accuracy testing.
The new stock significantly improved the stability of the rifle during shooting. This was especially noticeable when shooting from a rest. The increased weight, combined with the ergonomic design of the stock, helped dampen recoil and provided a more stable platform for precise shots.
The stock was fairly straightforward to install, although it required some minor fitting to achieve a perfect fit. I did need to refer to a YouTube video for detailed instructions. Once installed, the rifle felt more solid and balanced.
The only minor issue I experienced was that the magazine release felt slightly stiffer with the new stock. I assumed this was due to the slightly tighter tolerances of the wood stock compared to the original synthetic one.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock continues to perform exceptionally well. It remains solid and reliable. The forest camo finish has proven to be quite durable, showing no signs of wear or scratches, despite being used in various field conditions.
The stock requires minimal maintenance. I occasionally wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth to preserve the wood’s finish. The stock has held up remarkably well, exceeding my expectations in terms of durability.
Compared to the original synthetic stock, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock is a substantial improvement in almost every aspect. It provides better stability, improved ergonomics, and a far more aesthetically pleasing look. It’s exactly what I hoped for.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Classic Savage A17 Semi Auto Detachable Box Mag LH Stk RH Act Heavy BC
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Classic Savage A17 Semi Auto Detachable Box Mag LH Stk RH Act Heavy BC is crafted from hardwood, providing a classic look and solid feel. The use of hardwood ensures durability and enhances the rifle’s overall aesthetics.
This stock is specifically designed for the Savage A17 rifle model. Its precise fit guarantees seamless integration with the A17 action.
The stock is designed for right-hand actions, but is shaped for left-handed shooters. This allows lefties to comfortably and safely manipulate the rifle.
It features a heavy barrel channel (Heavy BC), accommodating heavier barrel profiles for enhanced accuracy and stability. The heavy barrel channel ensures proper fitment and free-floating of the barrel.
The stock is finished, meaning it’s ready to install and use without further finishing required. This saves time and effort for the user.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the rifle’s performance and user experience. The hardwood construction improves stability and reduces felt recoil. The left-hand specific design maximizes comfort and control for left-handed shooters.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Classic Savage A17 Semi Auto Detachable Box Mag LH Stk RH Act Heavy BC significantly enhances the overall shooting experience. It provides a more stable and comfortable platform for accurate shooting. The weight of the wood helps dampen recoil, improving shot-to-shot consistency.
The stock excels in its primary function of providing a solid and ergonomic interface between the shooter and the rifle. While the magazine release is slightly stiffer, this is a minor trade-off for the overall improvement in stability and feel. It definitely meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The hardwood is well-finished and the forest camo pattern is attractive and durable. The weight of the stock gives the rifle a more substantial and quality feel.
The stock is user-friendly, and I found the installation process relatively straightforward. Some minor fitting may be required, but overall, it presents a fairly easy upgrade.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its hardwood construction and durable finish, the stock should last for many years with proper care. It seems resilient. Minimal maintenance is required; occasional cleaning and light oiling will keep the wood in excellent condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The stock does not come with any accessories. It’s a standalone replacement stock. However, the standard Savage A17 is compatible with various aftermarket accessories such as bipods and slings, which can easily be added to the rifle once the new stock is installed.
The stock itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options beyond the choice of finish and wood grade. Some users may choose to add a custom butt pad or cheek riser for further personalization.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Classic Savage A17 Semi Auto Detachable Box Mag LH Stk RH Act Heavy BC
Pros
- Significantly improved stability and recoil absorption compared to factory synthetic stocks.
- Enhanced ergonomics and a more comfortable shooting experience for left-handed shooters.
- Classic hardwood aesthetic with a durable and attractive forest camo finish.
- Designed specifically for the Savage A17 with a heavy barrel channel for optimal fit.
- Relatively easy installation with minor fitting required.
Cons
- Magazine release may feel slightly stiffer after installation.
- May require some minor fitting for perfect alignment.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Classic Savage A17 Semi Auto Detachable Box Mag LH Stk RH Act Heavy BC?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Classic Savage A17 Semi Auto Detachable Box Mag LH Stk RH Act Heavy BC is perfect for left-handed shooters looking to upgrade the aesthetics and performance of their Savage A17 rifle. This stock is well-suited for varmint hunters, target shooters, and anyone who appreciates the classic look and feel of a hardwood stock.
This product may not be ideal for those who prioritize lightweight setups, as the hardwood construction adds noticeable weight. Also, if you aren’t comfortable with minor fitting or adjustments during installation, you might consider seeking professional installation.
A must-have accessory for this stock would be a high-quality bipod to further enhance stability for precision shooting. A comfortable sling is also recommended for carrying the rifle in the field.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Classic Savage A17 Semi Auto Detachable Box Mag LH Stk RH Act Heavy BC
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Classic Savage A17 Semi Auto Detachable Box Mag LH Stk RH Act Heavy BC is an excellent upgrade for the Savage A17, especially for left-handed shooters seeking enhanced ergonomics and classic aesthetics. The price of $199.99 is justified. The performance improvements and the overall quality of the stock are well worth the investment.
I would definitely recommend this stock to anyone looking to improve the feel and appearance of their Savage A17. It transforms the rifle into a more enjoyable and accurate shooting platform. If you’re ready to ditch that plastic stock and embrace the feel of solid hardwood, this is the way to go.