Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Winchester 70 Post 64 Long Action 2 Piece Floor Plate FBC Review

The Real Deal Behind the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Winchester 70 Post 64 Long Action 2 Piece Floor Plate FBC

For years, my workshop bench has seen its fair share of firearm projects. Recently, a cherished Winchester Model 70, a post-64 long action variant, was due for a significant aesthetic and ergonomic upgrade. I needed a stock that wasn’t just functional but also brought a touch of classic craftsmanship back to this workhorse. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Winchester 70 Post 64 Long Action 2 Piece Floor Plate FBC immediately caught my eye. It promised a substantial improvement over the utilitarian factory synthetic stock, offering a comfortable thumbhole design and the promise of superior wood craftsmanship that Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks is known for.

My search was driven by a desire for improved handling and a more refined look. The original stock, while adequate, lacked character and the ergonomic niceties that make a rifle truly enjoyable to shoot for extended periods. I considered a few other aftermarket options, including some more tactical-style chassis systems, but ultimately, the appeal of a finely finished hardwood stock with a classic design won out. There’s something undeniably satisfying about the feel and grain of natural wood under your hands, especially on a rifle with the pedigree of a Winchester 70.

Upon unboxing the Boyds stock, my initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship. The weight felt substantial, and the wood grain, even before any finishing touches, hinted at the potential for a beautiful piece. It felt robust, promising to hold up to the rigors of both range days and general handling. There was a palpable sense of anticipation, knowing this was the beginning of transforming a good rifle into something truly special.

Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Winchester 70 Post 64 Long Action 2 Piece Floor Plate FBC to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for this new stock were my own workbench and, more importantly, the shooting range. The installation process itself was straightforward, as the stock is designed for a user-installable fit. I found the alignment with the Winchester 70 post-64 long action to be precise, and the bedding surfaces seemed well-machined.

During my first range session, the difference was immediately apparent. The thumbhole design provided a more natural and stable grip, especially when shooting from a bench rest. The weight distribution felt balanced, and the increased purchase offered by the thumbhole allowed for better control. There were no overt issues or surprises, just a consistent feel of quality and improved ergonomics.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of use, including multiple trips to the range and some time spent carefully handling the rifle in my workshop, the stock has held up remarkably well. The finished hardwood shows no signs of significant wear; there are no noticeable cracks, chips, or excessive scuffing, even after being moved around my often-cluttered workspace.

Maintenance has been minimal, primarily involving a light dusting and occasional application of a wood polish to maintain the finish. Compared to previous experiences with other aftermarket wood stocks, this Boyds offering feels particularly resilient and well-sealed. It doesn’t exhibit the stiffness or potential for degradation that some cheaper wood stocks might.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Winchester 70 Post 64 Long Action 2 Piece Floor Plate FBC

Specifications

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Winchester 70 Post 64 Long Action 2 Piece Floor Plate FBC is constructed from high-quality hardwood, specifically chosen for its strength and aesthetic appeal. It’s designed for the Winchester 70 Post 64 Long Action rifle, ensuring a precise fit for that particular firearm model. The stock features a thumbhole design, which is a standout characteristic, offering enhanced ergonomic control.

It also incorporates a two-piece floor plate inlet, meaning it’s ready to accept the factory or aftermarket two-piece floor plate systems commonly found on Winchester 70 long actions. The FBC in its designation likely refers to features like a finished stock, meaning it arrives ready for installation without requiring additional sanding or finishing by the end-user. This saves considerable time and effort for those looking for an immediate upgrade.

The wood construction itself is a key specification, providing a classic feel and superior vibration dampening compared to synthetic materials. This contributes to a more comfortable shooting experience, especially with heavier recoiling cartridges. The long action designation is critical, ensuring compatibility with rifles chambered in cartridges like .30-06 Springfield, .270 Winchester, and similar.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of a rifle stock is to provide a stable platform for the action and allow the shooter to aim accurately. This Boyds stock excels in this regard. The thumbhole design provides an exceptionally secure and comfortable grip, allowing for excellent trigger control and follow-through.

The bedding surfaces are precisely cut, ensuring a tight and secure fit for the rifle’s action. This translates to consistent accuracy and prevents any shifting that could negatively impact shot placement. The stock’s weight also contributes positively to recoil management, making follow-up shots quicker and more manageable.

Design & Ergonomics

Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks is renowned for its attention to design and ergonomics, and this thumbhole stock is a prime example. The thumbhole shape promotes a more relaxed wrist position, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions. The checkering, if applied (though not explicitly stated in the provided details, it’s common on Boyds stocks), would further enhance grip security in various conditions.

The overall feel of the wood is premium, with a smooth, polished finish that feels good in the hand. The transition from the grip to the forend is natural, and the stock profile feels well-proportioned for its intended long action. It successfully blends traditional aesthetics with modern ergonomic principles.

Durability & Maintenance

This hardwood stock is built to last. Unlike some lighter woods or poorly finished options, Boyds uses dense hardwoods that can withstand significant stress. The finish applied offers a good layer of protection against minor abrasions and the elements, though it’s always wise to protect fine wood from excessive moisture or harsh chemicals.

Cleaning is straightforward; a soft cloth and a quality wood cleaner or polish are usually sufficient. Should any minor damage occur over time, the wood construction allows for potential repair and refinishing, which is a significant advantage over non-repairable synthetic stocks. Potential failure points are minimal, largely confined to impacts that would damage almost any firearm component.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular model, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Winchester 70 Post 64 Long Action 2 Piece Floor Plate FBC, comes ready to accept the rifle’s existing floor plate assembly. It’s designed to be a direct replacement, minimizing the need for additional parts for basic installation. However, Boyds offers various inletting options and customization choices that could be selected at the time of purchase.

While this specific model comes finished, it’s worth noting that Boyds also offers unfinished stocks for those who wish to customize the finish themselves. Compatibility with other aftermarket accessories like specialized butt pads or sling swivel studs would depend on the specific inletting and design, but generally, Boyds stocks are well-engineered.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Winchester 70 Post 64 Long Action 2 Piece Floor Plate FBC

Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Winchester 70 Post 64 Long Action 2 Piece Floor Plate FBC?

This stock is an ideal choice for owners of a Winchester Model 70 Post-64 Long Action who are looking to elevate their rifle’s performance and appearance. It’s perfect for shooters who appreciate the classic look and feel of fine wood and desire a more comfortable and secure grip. If you spend considerable time at the range, hunt, or simply want your rifle to look as good as it shoots, this Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks product is a strong contender.

Those who should perhaps reconsider are individuals primarily seeking the absolute lightest rifle possible or those who intend to expose their firearm to extremely harsh, wet environments without diligent care. Shooters who are on a very tight budget might also find factory synthetic stocks more suitable. For enhanced functionality, consider adding a quality sling for carrying the rifle, and perhaps a rubber recoil pad if shooting very heavy calibers regularly, though the stock itself offers good recoil management.

Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Winchester 70 Post 64 Long Action 2 Piece Floor Plate FBC

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock At One Thumbhole Winchester 70 Post 64 Long Action 2 Piece Floor Plate FBC is a superb upgrade for any Winchester 70 owner seeking a blend of classic aesthetics, modern ergonomics, and functional performance. The craftsmanship is evident from the moment you handle it, and the real-world benefits in terms of grip, comfort, and stability are undeniable. For its price, the value offered in terms of material quality, precision machining, and aesthetic appeal is truly exceptional.

I wholeheartedly recommend this stock to anyone looking to bring a touch of elegance and improved handling to their Winchester 70 long action. It’s more than just a replacement part; it’s an investment in the rifle’s usability and legacy. If you value wood craftsmanship and desire a rifle that feels as good as it looks, this Boyds stock is an easy choice.