Let’s Dive into Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116
The Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 is a worthy upgrade for anyone looking to improve the feel and accuracy of their Savage long action rifle. Hogue has a strong reputation for quality aftermarket grips and stocks, and this offering promises a significant improvement over the factory stock that often comes standard on these rifles. The pillar bedding and comfortable, recoil-absorbing feel are the key draws for this product.
My old Savage 110 in .30-06 was showing its age; the factory stock was flimsy and felt cheap. Accuracy had degraded over the years, and I knew it was time for an upgrade to bring some life back into my trusted hunting rifle. I needed something durable, comfortable, and that would improve the overall shooting experience.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the feel of the Hogue stock. The synthetic rubber material has a comfortable, almost tacky feel, providing a secure grip even in wet conditions. The weight felt right – solid but not overly heavy. I was pleased to see the aluminum pillars, which immediately indicated a focus on improving accuracy and stability.
I considered Boyds Gunstocks and Bell and Carlson, both reputable brands, but ultimately chose the Hogue for its reputation for comfortable ergonomics and its readily available pillar bedding. I was hoping this stock would provide a noticeable improvement in accuracy and recoil absorption without requiring extensive gunsmithing. My initial reaction was excitement; it looked and felt like a worthwhile investment.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 at my local shooting range. The weather was mild, around 65 degrees with a slight breeze. The improved ergonomics were immediately apparent; the stock felt much more natural in my hands.
The recoil absorption was also noticeably better than the factory stock. The rifle felt more stable during firing, and I was able to maintain a better sight picture between shots. After about 20 rounds, I noticed a slight improvement in my group sizes, though I knew I needed to zero in my scope to extract the best accuracy.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 has proven to be a solid and reliable upgrade. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The synthetic rubber material seems durable and resistant to scratches and abrasions.
Cleaning has been a breeze. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove dirt and grime. Compared to my previous experience with the factory stock, the Hogue stock offers a significant improvement in both comfort and performance. This stock has far exceeded my expectations and will likely be something I will continue to equip on future builds.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116
Specifications
- The Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 is designed to fit Savage 110, 111, 114, and 116 long action rifles. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of popular Savage models.
- The stock is made from a durable synthetic rubber overmolded onto a rigid internal frame. This provides a comfortable, non-slip grip and excellent recoil absorption.
- It features aluminum pillar bedding at the action screw locations. This greatly improves accuracy by providing a stable and consistent mounting platform.
- The stock is available in Ghillie Green. The color blends well in various hunting environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 significantly improves the accuracy and handling of Savage rifles. The pillar bedding provides a solid foundation for the action. This results in more consistent shot placement.
The recoil-absorbing properties of the synthetic rubber make shooting more comfortable, especially with larger calibers. The stock meets and exceeds expectations for a drop-in replacement. It is a worthwhile upgrade for any Savage owner. One notable weakness could be that the barrel channel may need slight modification for some rifles.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 features a well-designed ergonomic shape. The stock promotes a comfortable and natural shooting position. The material provides a secure grip even in wet conditions.
The stock is relatively lightweight, adding minimal weight to the rifle. There is virtually no learning curve. The stock is a user-friendly and intuitive upgrade.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 is built to last. The synthetic rubber material is resistant to scratches, abrasions, and harsh weather conditions. The stock is very easy to maintain and clean.
A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. With proper care, the Hogue stock should last for many years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 does not come with many accessories, as it is primarily a stock replacement. However, the stock is compatible with standard sling swivel studs. These allow for the attachment of slings and bipods.
Aftermarket cheek risers and recoil pads can also be added for further customization. Most importantly, the stock improves the mounting platform for scopes and other optics, leading to better accuracy and reliability.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116
Pros
- Significant improvement in accuracy due to pillar bedding.
- Enhanced recoil absorption for greater shooting comfort.
- Durable and weather-resistant synthetic rubber material.
- Ergonomic design for a comfortable and secure grip.
- Easy to install and maintain.
Cons
- The barrel channel may require some minor fitting for certain rifles.
- Color options are limited.
Who Should Buy Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116?
The Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 is perfect for hunters looking to improve the accuracy and comfort of their Savage long action rifles. It is also ideal for target shooters and anyone who wants a more solid and reliable stock. Anyone who has a rifle that is chambered for higher recoil rounds will benefit greatly from the enhanced recoil absorption.
Those who are looking for a highly customizable stock with a wide range of color options might want to explore other alternatives. Someone who is expecting a perfect drop-in fit for all Savage rifles right out of the box may be disappointed. A must-have modification to pair with this would be a quality scope.
Conclusion on Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116
The Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 is a worthwhile investment for Savage rifle owners looking to improve accuracy, comfort, and overall handling. The price is justified considering the quality of the materials and the noticeable improvement in performance.
I would highly recommend this stock to anyone seeking a reliable and affordable upgrade for their Savage rifle. If you are looking to breathe new life into an old rifle, the Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 is a great place to start. Upgrade your rifle today!