Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti promises to transform your Ruger American into a precision shooting platform. Designed for varmint hunting and target shooting, this stock aims to improve accuracy and ergonomics over the factory stock. The Boyds name is synonymous with quality aftermarket gunstocks, but does this one live up to the reputation?
I was looking for a stock that would give my Ruger American a more solid, stable feel for long-range varmint hunting. The factory stock felt a bit flimsy, and I wanted something with a wider forend for better support on sandbags. I needed to reduce felt recoil and obtain better ergonomics.
My first impression upon unboxing the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti was positive. The stock felt solid and well-made, with a nice weight to it. The black texture paint seemed durable, and the overall design looked more refined than I expected.
I considered the Magpul Hunter American stock, as well as offerings from Stocky’s Stocks. I ultimately chose the Boyds stock because of its classic wood aesthetic and the promise of a comfortable, stable shooting platform at a reasonable price point. I was excited to see if it would live up to the hype and improve my rifle’s accuracy.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti at my local shooting range, focusing on 100 and 200-yard targets. The weather was sunny with a slight breeze, providing ideal conditions for testing. Installation was straightforward and required minimal gunsmithing skills.
The most noticeable difference was the improved stability and comfort compared to the original stock. The wider forend provided a much better platform for shooting off sandbags, and the more vertical pistol grip felt more natural in my hand. This made it easier to maintain a consistent cheek weld and trigger pull.
I experienced no immediate issues with the stock, but did notice that the factory barrel channel was a tight fit. Some minor sanding was required to free float the barrel.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking or warping, even after being exposed to varying weather conditions during hunting trips. The black texture paint has proven to be quite durable, resisting scratches and scuffs.
Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The wood seems well-sealed, preventing moisture from penetrating and causing damage. I’ve hunted coyotes in harsh weather conditions since installing this stock.
The Boyds stock noticeably outperforms the original factory stock in terms of stability, comfort, and recoil absorption. The improved ergonomics have allowed me to shoot more accurately and consistently, especially at longer ranges. I am much more confident in my rifle’s performance with this stock.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti is designed specifically for Ruger American Centerfire rifles with a long action. It features a factory barrel channel, ideal for a drop-in fit with standard factory barrels. The stock is constructed from hardwood, providing a stiff and stable platform.
This model is specifically configured for left-handed shooters, ensuring comfortable and ergonomic handling. The long action configuration means it’s designed for cartridges like .30-06 Springfield and .270 Winchester. The black texture paint provides a durable and weather-resistant finish.
The overall weight adds some heft to the rifle, which aids in recoil absorption and stability. This helps maintain accuracy during rapid follow-up shots.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti excels in providing a stable and comfortable shooting platform. The wider forend and ergonomic pistol grip significantly improve accuracy and control. Recoil is noticeably reduced, making longer shooting sessions more enjoyable.
The stock’s strengths lie in its enhanced stability and ergonomics, leading to improved shooting performance. One area for potential improvement might be offering adjustable cheek rest options for greater customization. This stock meets and exceeds my expectations for a varmint-style stock upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti boasts solid build quality, with durable hardwood construction and a tough textured finish. Its weight feels substantial without being cumbersome, contributing to overall stability. The ergonomic design, including the palm swell and vertical grip, makes it a comfortable fit for most hand sizes.
The stock is designed to be user-friendly, with a drop-in fit that requires minimal gunsmithing experience. It is important to note that some minor fitting may be necessary, depending on the specific rifle. This stock does require a little getting used to, but offers incredible usability.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardwood construction of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti suggests a long lifespan with proper care. The textured paint finish provides a protective layer against scratches and the elements. Regular cleaning and occasional oiling of the wood will help maintain its condition and prevent warping.
The stock is relatively easy to maintain. Regular cleaning with a slightly damp cloth is usually sufficient. Any scratches or blemishes in the finish can be touched up with appropriate paint.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti readily accepts standard sling swivel studs for attaching slings or bipods. The stock’s design allows for easy installation of aftermarket recoil pads for further customization. Compatibility with various scope mounting systems remains unchanged from the factory stock configuration.
This stock does not come with any specific accessories but is compatible with most Ruger American accessories. Adding a quality bipod or sling can further enhance its performance. Aftermarket recoil pads, such as Limbsaver, can be easily installed for added comfort.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti
Pros
- Improved accuracy and stability due to the wider forend and solid construction.
- Enhanced ergonomics with a comfortable pistol grip and palm swell.
- Reduced recoil for more comfortable and enjoyable shooting sessions.
- Durable and weather-resistant finish that holds up well in various conditions.
- Relatively easy installation, making it a user-friendly upgrade.
Cons
- May require minor fitting for a perfect drop-in fit.
- Lack of adjustable cheek rest limits customization options.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti?
This stock is perfect for varmint hunters and target shooters looking to improve the accuracy and stability of their Ruger American Centerfire rifles. Left-handed shooters will especially appreciate the dedicated design. Anyone seeking a more comfortable and ergonomic shooting experience should strongly consider this upgrade.
Hunters prioritizing lightweight setups might find this stock a bit heavy compared to synthetic alternatives. Those who demand highly adjustable features like an adjustable cheek rest might also want to explore other options. A must-have accessory is a quality bipod to fully utilize the stock’s stability.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Pro Varmint Ruger American Centerfire Long Acti is a worthwhile upgrade for Ruger American owners seeking improved accuracy, stability, and comfort. Its solid construction, ergonomic design, and durable finish make it a reliable choice for various shooting applications. At $219.99, the price is justified given the performance enhancements and quality materials.
I would highly recommend this stock to anyone looking to elevate their Ruger American’s performance. If you’re tired of the flimsy factory stock and want a more stable, comfortable, and accurate shooting platform, the Boyds Pro Varmint is an excellent choice. Upgrade your Ruger American today and experience the difference!