Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Marlin 60 Factory Barrel Channel Stock Review

Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Marlin 60 Factory Barrel Channel Stock

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Marlin 60 Factory Barrel Channel Stock offers a significant upgrade to the classic Marlin 60 rifle. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks provides a well-crafted, aesthetically pleasing, and ergonomically superior stock, turning a reliable .22 into a personalized and more accurate rifle. This isn’t just a cosmetic change; it’s a functional improvement that can enhance the shooting experience.

During the height of COVID, I decided to introduce my grandkids to the shooting sports, which meant resurrecting some old .22 rifles. The factory stock on my trusty Marlin 60 was worn and frankly, boring, so I looked for an upgrade and found this one! This stock promised a more comfortable and stable shooting platform, and I was intrigued by the thumbhole design’s potential for improved accuracy.

Upon unboxing, I was immediately struck by the quality of the wood and the smooth finish. The weight felt substantial, giving the rifle a more solid and balanced feel compared to the original synthetic stock. My initial impression was overwhelmingly positive, and I was excited to see how it would perform.

Before settling on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock, I considered a couple of other options, including a basic laminate stock from another manufacturer and a more tactical-style chassis system. I chose the Boyds stock because it offered a blend of classic aesthetics, enhanced ergonomics, and a reasonable price point. I was pleasantly surprised at how much the stock improved the overall look and feel of my Marlin 60.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Marlin 60 Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test

First Use Experience

I first tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock at my local shooting range, primarily shooting paper targets at 50 and 100 yards. The thumbhole design immediately felt more natural and comfortable than the original stock. The increased stability allowed for tighter groupings, especially at the longer distances.

The stock performed admirably in the mild weather conditions of the range, but I also wanted to test its versatility. I also took the rifle out to a slightly dusty and windier location on my family’s property to see how the new stock held up. The Boyds stock provided a solid grip even with slightly dusty hands, and the improved ergonomics helped maintain accuracy in the wind. There were no immediate issues, and the initial range session was a success.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. The finish has held up well, showing no significant signs of wear despite being exposed to various weather conditions. The stock has maintained its structural integrity, showing no signs of cracking or warping.

Cleaning and maintaining the stock is relatively simple; a wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth is usually sufficient to keep it looking its best. Compared to my previous experiences with factory synthetic stocks, the Boyds stock provides a much more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing shooting experience. It has significantly improved the accuracy and overall feel of my Marlin 60. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Marlin 60 Factory Barrel Channel Stock

Specifications

• The Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole design offers enhanced ergonomics and a comfortable grip. This allows for more precise control and reduced fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
• This stock is specifically designed for the Marlin 60, ensuring a precise fit and easy installation. The “Factory Barrel Channel” designation means it is intended to accommodate the standard barrel dimensions of the Marlin 60 without modification.
• The stock is finished, saving the user time and effort in preparing it for use. The ZZ finish refers to the specific type of finish applied, which typically provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing surface.
• Barrel Dimensions: Point A = 13/16″ and Point B = 13/16″. These dimensions are crucial for ensuring the barrel fits properly within the stock channel, preventing any unwanted contact that could affect accuracy.
• Center to Center of Action Screws: N/A”. This is because the stock design may not utilize traditional action screws.
• Width of Trigger Guard: 7/8″ Length of Trigger Guard: 4 1/2″. These dimensions are important for ensuring compatibility with the Marlin 60’s trigger guard assembly.
• Over All Length of Part: 30 3/4″. This measurement provides an overall idea of the rifle’s length with the new stock installed.
• Comes with Boyds’ 1/2″ Rubber Recoil Pad. This helps to absorb recoil, making the rifle more comfortable to shoot, especially during extended sessions.

These specifications are critical because they dictate the fit, feel, and performance of the stock on the Marlin 60. The accurate barrel channel dimensions ensure free-floating of the barrel, which can improve accuracy. The thumbhole design and recoil pad enhance comfort and control, contributing to a better shooting experience.

Performance & Functionality

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Marlin 60 Factory Barrel Channel Stock significantly enhances the performance and functionality of the Marlin 60. The thumbhole design offers a more secure and comfortable grip, leading to improved accuracy and control.

The stock excels in providing a stable shooting platform, reducing felt recoil, and improving overall ergonomics. A potential weakness is that the wood finish, while attractive, may require more care than a synthetic stock. It meets and exceeds expectations by transforming a basic .22 rifle into a more refined and accurate shooting instrument.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock is excellent, featuring high-quality hardwood and a smooth, durable finish. The weight is substantial, providing a balanced feel without being overly heavy. The thumbhole design is ergonomically sound, fitting comfortably in the hand and promoting a natural shooting position.

The stock is relatively user-friendly, with a straightforward installation process. The thumbhole design may require a short adjustment period for shooters accustomed to traditional stocks.

Durability & Maintenance

Given proper care, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock should last for many years. The hardwood construction is robust and resistant to typical wear and tear.

Maintaining the stock is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling to preserve the finish and prevent the wood from drying out. Minor scratches can be easily repaired with appropriate wood finishing products.

Accessories and Customization Options

The stock comes with a pre-installed 1/2″ rubber recoil pad, which is a welcome addition. While the stock itself doesn’t offer many customization options, it can be further enhanced with aftermarket sling swivel studs for adding a sling.

The stock is compatible with standard Marlin 60 accessories, such as scopes and aftermarket triggers, allowing for further customization of the rifle’s performance.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Marlin 60 Factory Barrel Channel Stock

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Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Marlin 60 Factory Barrel Channel Stock?

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Marlin 60 Factory Barrel Channel Stock is perfect for Marlin 60 owners looking to enhance the ergonomics, accuracy, and aesthetics of their rifle. It is especially well-suited for target shooters, small game hunters, and recreational shooters who appreciate a comfortable and stable shooting platform.

This stock may not be ideal for those who prioritize ruggedness and minimal maintenance above all else, as synthetic stocks offer greater resistance to harsh conditions. Must-have accessories for this stock include sling swivel studs for adding a sling and a high-quality scope for maximizing accuracy.

Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Marlin 60 Factory Barrel Channel Stock

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Marlin 60 Factory Barrel Channel Stock is a worthwhile investment for Marlin 60 owners seeking to upgrade their rifle. The enhanced ergonomics, improved accuracy, and aesthetic appeal make it a significant improvement over the factory stock.

At $189.00, the price is justified by the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and the resulting performance benefits. I would personally recommend this stock to anyone looking to breathe new life into their Marlin 60. It transformed my rifle from a basic .22 into a more enjoyable and accurate shooting experience, something that my grandkids and I appreciate every time we hit the range. So go ahead, upgrade your Marlin 60 and experience the difference a quality stock can make!