Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock is designed to enhance both the accuracy and ergonomics of your Remington 700 rifle. Crafted from laminated hardwood and finished with a hand-rubbed oil, it provides a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality. This stock is specifically inletted for a PTG (Pacific Tool and Gauge) short action receiver, a detachable box magazine, and accommodates a factory barrel contour.
I was looking for a stock upgrade that would improve my accuracy on long-range varmint hunts. The factory stock on my Remington 700 just wasn’t cutting it, especially when trying to maintain a stable hold for those precision shots. I wanted something that would offer better grip, a more comfortable shooting position, and increased stability, which led me to the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock.
Out of the box, the Boyds stock felt solid and well-made. The laminated hardwood was smooth and the thumbhole design felt immediately comfortable in my hand, promising improved control. The weight felt appropriate, adding some heft for stability without making the rifle feel cumbersome.
I considered stocks from Bell and Carlson, as well as HS Precision. However, I chose the Boyds stock due to the combination of its thumbhole design, attractive price point, and positive reviews regarding its fit and finish. I was excited to see how this stock would transform my rifle’s performance in the field. My first impression was definitely positive; it looked and felt like a significant upgrade.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock at my local shooting range, specifically targeting the 100-yard and 200-yard lanes. This was followed by a prairie dog hunting trip in eastern Montana. The stock performed admirably in both settings, providing a noticeable improvement in stability and accuracy.
The weather was a mix of sun and wind at the range, and dry, dusty conditions in Montana. The Boyds stock provided a consistent grip regardless of these conditions. The thumbhole design naturally positioned my hand for a stable hold, and the added weight helped reduce recoil.
The thumbhole design took a little getting used to, as it altered my natural grip slightly. After a few magazines, it felt very natural and comfortable. The improved ergonomics and solid cheek weld made target acquisition faster and follow-up shots more consistent.
The only initial issue I noticed was that the factory barrel channel was a very tight fit. A little bit of sanding was needed to ensure the barrel was completely free-floating.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple range sessions and two varmint hunting trips, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock has proven to be very durable. There are no signs of cracking or splitting in the wood. The finish has held up well despite being exposed to dirt, dust, and occasional rain.
The stock still looks and feels as good as new, with no significant wear and tear to report. The laminated hardwood is clearly robust and capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use. The hand-rubbed oil finish requires only an occasional wipe down to keep it looking pristine.
Maintaining the Boyds stock is simple; I periodically clean it with a damp cloth and apply a light coat of gun stock oil. Compared to the factory synthetic stock, the Boyds stock offers a more stable and comfortable shooting experience. The thumbhole design and improved ergonomics make it easier to maintain accuracy over extended shooting sessions.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Specifications
- Material: Laminated hardwood, providing excellent strength and stability. The choice of material minimizes warping and cracking, ensuring a consistent platform for accurate shooting.
- Action: Specifically designed for Remington 700 short action receivers. This ensures a precise fit and proper bedding for optimal performance.
- Bottom Metal: Inletted for a PTG detachable box magazine. This allows for faster magazine changes and compatibility with aftermarket magazine systems.
- Barrel Channel: Factory barrel channel, accommodating standard Remington 700 barrel contours. A free-floating barrel design can improve accuracy by preventing contact between the barrel and stock.
- Finish: Hand-rubbed oil finish, enhancing the natural beauty of the wood and providing a durable protective layer. This finish is easy to maintain and repair, ensuring long-lasting good looks.
- Thumbhole Design: Offers improved ergonomics and a secure grip for enhanced control and accuracy. The thumbhole allows for a more natural and comfortable hand position.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock significantly improves the rifle’s overall performance. It provides a stable and comfortable shooting platform for long-range accuracy. The thumbhole design enhances control, leading to tighter groupings and improved consistency.
The stock’s strengths lie in its improved ergonomics, enhanced stability, and solid construction. The tight barrel channel fit (which required minor sanding) can be seen as both a strength and a weakness. Some might find the need for slight modification a drawback. Overall, the Boyds stock exceeded my expectations in terms of both comfort and performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock is well-designed. The laminated hardwood provides a solid and stable platform. The thumbhole design is comfortable and ergonomic, allowing for a natural and secure grip.
The build quality is excellent, and the stock feels substantial without being overly heavy. The hand-rubbed oil finish provides a smooth and attractive surface. There is a very slight learning curve to the thumbhole grip, but it quickly becomes intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The laminated hardwood construction of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock ensures excellent durability. It’s built to last for years under normal use conditions. The stock is easy to maintain.
Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional application of gun stock oil will keep it in top condition. Minor scratches or dings can often be easily repaired.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock is primarily a stock. It doesn’t come with a lot of included accessories, beyond the basic bedding required for installation. The main customization options revolve around the finish, the color of the laminated hardwood, and the potential for adding aftermarket recoil pads.
The stock is fully compatible with standard Remington 700 short action accessories, such as scope mounts and bipods. The PTG detachable box magazine inletting allows for the use of a wide variety of aftermarket magazines. The factory barrel channel can also be opened up further to accommodate larger, bull-barrel contours.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Pros
- Significantly improved ergonomics with the thumbhole design.
- Enhanced stability for increased accuracy.
- Solid laminated hardwood construction for durability.
- Attractive hand-rubbed oil finish.
- Affordable price point compared to other premium stocks.
Cons
- Factory barrel channel may require slight sanding for a perfect fit.
- Thumbhole design may not be comfortable for all shooters.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock is perfect for varmint hunters seeking improved accuracy and comfort. It’s a great fit for target shooters looking for a stable and ergonomic stock upgrade. It’s also ideal for anyone wanting to give their Remington 700 a classic aesthetic with modern functionality.
This stock may not be suitable for individuals who prefer lightweight rifles or those who dislike thumbhole designs. People needing a stock for extreme weather conditions might prefer a synthetic alternative. A must-have modification is a good quality recoil pad, if the stock doesn’t already include one.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock is a well-made, attractive, and functional upgrade for any Remington 700 short action rifle. It offers a significant improvement in ergonomics and stability. It enhances accuracy at a reasonable price.
The $199.99 price is justified by the quality of the materials, the craftsmanship, and the noticeable performance improvements it provides. I would definitely recommend this stock to anyone looking to upgrade their Remington 700. It’s a fantastic value for the money.
If you’re looking to improve the accuracy and feel of your Remington 700, this stock is a great choice. Give the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Varmint Thumbhole Remington700 PTG Short Action Detachable Box Mag Factory Barrel Channel Stock a try. You won’t be disappointed!