Boyds Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 Super Short Action Rifle Stock Review

The Honest Truth About the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC is designed to breathe new life into your Winchester Model 70, offering both aesthetic appeal and functional enhancement. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks is a name synonymous with quality and craftsmanship, and this particular stock aims to deliver that reputation. Its key feature is the Prairie Hunter design, known for its comfortable ergonomics and classic lines, combined with a factory barrel channel and forest camo finish.

For years, I’ve been rebuilding and customizing rifles, always seeking that perfect balance of form and function. My current project was a Winchester Model 70 Super Short Action, and its factory stock felt…well, factory. I was looking for a stock that not only improved the rifle’s aesthetics but also enhanced its ergonomics and shooting performance, specifically one that could handle the recoil and provide a solid cheek weld for accurate shots.

Upon receiving the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC, the first thing I noticed was the richness of the wood and the quality of the forest camo finish. The weight felt substantial and balanced, suggesting a well-made product that could withstand the rigors of field use. Compared to synthetic stocks, the wood felt warmer and more natural in my hands, giving it that classic rifle feel.

I considered stocks from McMillan and HS Precision, both reputable manufacturers, but the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks option offered a compelling combination of classic aesthetics, functional design, and, most importantly, a price point that fit my budget. While others may have offered more adjustability, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock promised a drop-in fit and a significant upgrade over the factory option. I was initially excited to see how the forest camo would look with the blued action and barrel, and hoping that the fit would be as good as advertised.

Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC was at my local range. It was a partly cloudy day, about 60 degrees Fahrenheit, with a slight breeze. The range offered both covered and open shooting benches, and I opted for the open bench to get a real feel for the rifle in more natural conditions.

The improved ergonomics were immediately apparent, making shouldering the rifle a more comfortable and natural experience. The palm swell felt just right, and the cheek weld provided a consistent sight picture, even when shooting from different positions. Shooting in those conditions enhanced how well the stock’s geometry helped manage recoil, enabling me to stay on target and achieve tighter groupings.

There were no immediate issues, and the drop-in fit was surprisingly accurate, requiring only minor adjustments to achieve perfect alignment. After zeroing the scope, I moved on to more rapid-fire drills, and the stock held up beautifully, providing a stable and comfortable platform for sustained shooting. The rifle was a joy to use.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. I’ve taken it on several hunting trips in varying weather conditions, from dry, dusty environments to damp, foggy mornings. The stock has held up exceptionally well.

There are a few minor scratches and dings from encounters with branches and rocks, but the finish has proven to be surprisingly resilient. Maintenance has been straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and a light coat of oil to protect the wood. Compared to the original factory stock, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock has significantly improved both the rifle’s ergonomics and its aesthetics.

The enhanced grip and cheek weld have contributed to improved accuracy and reduced felt recoil, making it a pleasure to shoot. The drop-in fit also made this install a breeze, and this upgrade has transformed the rifle into a more capable and enjoyable firearm.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC

Specifications

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC is specifically designed for the Winchester Model 70 with a super short action and one-piece floor plate. It features a factory barrel channel, meaning it should accommodate most factory barrel contours without requiring additional modification. Made from hardwood, this stock offers a balance of strength and classic aesthetics. The forest camo finish provides effective concealment in wooded environments.

The stock’s dimensions are designed to provide a comfortable and stable shooting platform, with a palm swell and raised cheekpiece that enhance ergonomics and promote proper cheek weld. The short action compatibility ensures a snug and secure fit with the specified Winchester Model 70 action, while the one-piece floor plate design contributes to a more rigid and durable construction. These specifications are crucial for a stock that not only looks good but also enhances the shooter’s accuracy and comfort.

Performance & Functionality

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC performs admirably in its intended role, providing a significant upgrade over the factory stock. The improved ergonomics, particularly the palm swell and raised cheekpiece, greatly enhance shooting comfort and accuracy. The drop-in fit is generally excellent, requiring minimal fitting for most rifles.

The stock’s primary strength lies in its ability to provide a stable and consistent shooting platform, allowing for tighter groupings and improved overall accuracy. While the hardwood construction is durable, it is not as resistant to extreme weather conditions as synthetic stocks. It performs well in most hunting and range situations, but may require extra care in wet or humid environments.

The performance meets my expectations, and the aesthetics far exceed my expectations. I’m happy with its functionality in most scenarios.

Design & Ergonomics

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC features a classic Prairie Hunter design that is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally sound. The forest camo finish adds a touch of modern flair to the traditional wood stock, making it visually appealing in a variety of hunting environments. The palm swell and raised cheekpiece are well-designed, providing a comfortable and secure grip for a wide range of hand sizes.

The build quality is generally excellent, with tight tolerances and a smooth, even finish. The weight feels substantial but not overly heavy, providing a good balance between stability and maneuverability. There is minimal learning curve involved, making it easy to adapt to the stock’s ergonomics.

Durability & Maintenance

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC is constructed from durable hardwood, which should provide years of reliable service with proper care. The forest camo finish is reasonably resistant to scratches and abrasions, but it is not indestructible. Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to keep the stock in good condition.

Occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and a light coat of gun oil will help protect the wood from moisture and prevent cracking. The stock is relatively easy to repair, with minor dings and scratches easily addressed with wood filler and touch-up paint. This stock is a durable product, but it requires care.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC is primarily a drop-in replacement stock, so it doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories designed for the Winchester Model 70. This includes scope mounts, slings, and bipods.

The factory barrel channel can be opened up to accommodate larger aftermarket barrels, providing additional customization options. While the stock itself doesn’t offer adjustable cheekpieces or length-of-pull, these can be addressed with aftermarket cheek risers and butt pads. It’s worth verifying compatibility before purchasing.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC

Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC?

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC is perfect for hunters seeking an affordable, aesthetically pleasing, and functionally superior replacement stock for their Winchester Model 70 Super Short Action rifles. It’s also a great choice for recreational shooters looking to enhance their rifle’s ergonomics and accuracy without breaking the bank. This stock is ideal for those who appreciate the classic look and feel of a wood stock and want a significant upgrade over the factory option.

This stock may not be the best choice for shooters who prioritize extreme weather resistance or require extensive customization options such as adjustable cheekpieces or length-of-pull. Those who frequently hunt in harsh, wet environments or demand a highly adjustable stock might be better served by a synthetic stock with more features. A quality scope and sling would complement this stock nicely.

Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 One Piece Floor Plate Super Short Action FBC is an excellent value proposition for Winchester Model 70 owners seeking an upgrade. Its combination of classic aesthetics, enhanced ergonomics, and reliable performance make it a worthwhile investment. At a price of $199.99, the value is incredible for the improvement it brings to your rifle.

I would definitely recommend this stock to anyone looking to improve their Winchester Model 70 without spending a fortune. Whether you’re a hunter looking for an edge in the field or a recreational shooter seeking improved accuracy and comfort, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks stock is a great choice. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference a quality stock can make!