Let’s Dive into Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114
The Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114 is a popular aftermarket stock designed to replace the factory stock on Savage short action rifles. Manufactured by Hogue, this stock aims to improve the rifle’s ergonomics, comfort, and overall shooting experience. Its key features include a rubber overmolded grip, pillar bedding for enhanced accuracy, and compatibility with top-loading box magazines.
I was looking to upgrade the factory stock on my Savage Hog Hunter, which felt cheap and lacked rigidity. I wanted a stock that would provide a more comfortable grip, better recoil absorption, and potentially improve accuracy. Ultimately, I needed something that would withstand the rigors of hunting in various weather conditions.
Upon unboxing the Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114, I immediately noticed the distinctive Hogue rubber overmold. The stock felt solid and well-made, with a comfortable grip texture. The weight seemed comparable to the factory stock, perhaps slightly heavier, which I perceived as a good sign for recoil absorption.
I considered stocks from Boyds and Bell and Carlson before settling on the Hogue. I chose the Hogue primarily for its rubber overmold and reputation for a comfortable grip, something I prioritized for hunting in cold and wet conditions. I was hoping for a significant improvement over the factory stock, both in terms of feel and performance.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The rubber overmold felt great in my hands, but I was slightly concerned about the forend flex mentioned in some online reviews. Time would tell if the Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114 could truly live up to my expectations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at an outdoor shooting range, where I focused on zeroing my rifle with the new stock. I tested the rifle both from a supported position using sandbags and offhand. The weather was mild and dry.
The Hogue stock immediately improved the feel of the rifle during recoil. The rubber overmold provided a secure and comfortable grip, even with sweaty hands. I did notice some flex in the forend when using a bipod, which negatively impacted accuracy at longer ranges.
Installation required some minor adjustments. I ended up needing to bed the magazine well to achieve proper feeding. This was not a major issue for me, but it may be challenging for someone without experience in bedding stocks.
After the first range session, I was generally pleased with the Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114, but the forend flex remained a concern. The improved grip and recoil absorption were definite positives.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hogue stock has held up well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the rubber overmold or the pillar bedding. The stock has seen use in a variety of weather conditions, including rain and snow.
The rubber overmold has proven to be incredibly durable and provides excellent grip even when wet. Cleaning the stock is simple. Soap and water quickly remove any dirt or grime.
Compared to the factory Savage stock, the Hogue is a definite improvement in terms of comfort and recoil absorption. However, the forend flex is a significant drawback, especially when using a bipod. Ultimately, it is a good upgrade for hunting, but not ideal for precision shooting.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114
Specifications
The Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114 is specifically designed for Savage 10, 12, and 16 short action rifles with a heavy barrel profile. It accommodates top-loading box magazines, providing a convenient and reliable feeding system.
The stock features pillar bedding, which involves embedding aluminum pillars in the stock to provide a solid and stable interface between the action and the stock. This enhances accuracy by minimizing stress on the action. The grip and forend are overmolded with Hogue‘s signature rubber, offering a comfortable and secure grip in all weather conditions.
The stock is constructed from a reinforced polymer material, providing a balance of strength and weight. This is a drop-in replacement for the factory stock, though as my experience showed, some minor fitting may be required. It is designed to improve ergonomics and recoil absorption, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114 performs admirably as a hunting stock. The rubber overmold provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions. The pillar bedding contributes to improved accuracy, though the forend flex limits its potential for precision shooting.
The main strength of this stock is its ergonomics and comfortable grip. Its primary weakness is the forend flex, particularly when using a bipod. While it is a significant upgrade over many factory Savage stocks, it may not meet the needs of serious precision shooters.
Overall, the Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114 meets expectations as a comfortable and durable hunting stock. However, its performance is limited by the flexible forend, making it less suitable for precision shooting applications.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114 is well-designed, with a focus on ergonomics and comfort. The rubber overmold provides a secure and comfortable grip, while the overall shape of the stock promotes a natural shooting position.
The stock is relatively lightweight, making it comfortable to carry in the field. The build quality is generally good, with the rubber overmold providing a durable and weather-resistant finish. There is a slight learning curve associated with the installation, as some fitting may be required.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114 is designed for long-term durability. The reinforced polymer construction and rubber overmold provide excellent resistance to wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple. Soap and water are sufficient to clean the stock. The rubber overmold is resistant to most solvents and oils. With proper care, this stock should last for many years.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114 does not come with any accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including slings, bipods, and cheek risers.
The stock is designed to accommodate a heavy barrel profile, allowing for the installation of aftermarket barrels. It is also compatible with most top-loading box magazines designed for Savage short action rifles. Be sure to verify compatibility before purchasing any accessories.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114
Pros
- Excellent rubber overmold provides a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions.
- Pillar bedding enhances accuracy compared to factory stocks, though limited by forend flex.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance in the field.
- Significant improvement in recoil absorption over factory synthetic stocks.
- Easy to clean and maintain.
Cons
- Forend flex significantly impacts accuracy when using a bipod.
- Installation may require some minor fitting, including bedding the magazine well.
- Marginally better than a Savage Accustock in terms of overall performance.
Who Should Buy Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114?
The Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114 is perfect for hunters seeking a comfortable and durable stock upgrade. It’s also a good choice for shooters who prioritize grip and recoil absorption over extreme precision. This is an excellent upgrade from a low-end factory stock.
Those who prioritize precision shooting and frequently use a bipod should skip this product. A stiffer stock, such as a Manners or similar composite stock, would be a better choice for maximizing accuracy. Also, if you already own a Savage Accustock, the improvement may be marginal.
A must-have modification for some will be bedding the magazine well. A quality sling will also enhance the carrying comfort in the field.
Conclusion on Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114
The Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114 is a solid aftermarket stock that offers a significant improvement over many factory Savage stocks. The rubber overmold is incredibly comfortable and provides a secure grip, while the pillar bedding enhances accuracy.
At a price of $127.46, the Hogue stock offers a reasonable value proposition for hunters and recreational shooters seeking a comfortable and durable upgrade. However, the forend flex limits its potential for precision shooting.
I would personally recommend the Hogue Savage 10, 12 & 16 Top Loading Box Mag Short Action Heavy Barrel Pillar Bed Stock 11114 to anyone looking for a comfortable and reliable hunting stock. It is a worthwhile upgrade that will enhance your shooting experience. If you value comfort and weather resistance, this is a great option.