Does the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 110 TBR Blind Mag Long Action LH Stk RH Act Center Feed FBC Live Up to Its Name?
As an equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’ve developed a keen eye for what works and what doesn’t. My search for a suitable replacement stock for a long-serving Savage 110 action led me to the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 110 TBR Blind Mag Long Action LH Stk RH Act Center Feed FBC. This particular model promised a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality, specifically catering to the often-overlooked left-hand shooter with a right-hand action setup. My existing stock, a relic of countless trips and workshop sessions, had developed significant cracks and a general looseness that impacted accuracy and feel. I considered a more tactical, synthetic option, but the appeal of traditional hardwood and the proven reputation of Boyds steered me towards this particular offering. My initial impression upon arrival was one of solid craftsmanship; the wood felt dense, the finish was even, and the inlets appeared precise, sparking a sense of quiet satisfaction.
Real-World Testing: Putting the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 110 TBR Blind Mag Long Action LH Stk RH Act Center Feed FBC to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing began in my personal workshop, where the primary goal was to bed the Savage 110 action into its new home. The Savage 110 TBR Blind Mag Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Center Feed FBC required careful fitting to ensure a perfect union between the wood and the metal. I conducted this initial fitting on my workbench, a controlled environment with good lighting and ample space for precise adjustments. The Savage 110 TBR Blind Mag Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Center Feed FBC slid into place with remarkable ease, requiring only minimal inletting for a precise, wobble-free fit.
Following the initial bedding, I took the rifle, now sporting its new stock, to my local outdoor range for live-fire testing. I performed several shooting sessions over a few weeks, subjecting the stock to varying conditions typical of a range day: a slightly dusty environment, intermittent light drizzles, and temperature fluctuations between 45°F and 70°F. The grip remained consistent, and the wood showed no signs of swelling or warping under the damp conditions. The initial experience was overwhelmingly positive, marked by a secure fit and a noticeable improvement in handling.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the subsequent months, this Boyds stock has become a fixture on my Savage 110 rifle, accompanying it on several hunting excursions and numerous trips to the range. Its performance in day-to-day tasks, primarily holding the rifle securely and providing a stable shooting platform, has been consistently excellent. The hardened maple wood construction is proving its mettle; despite being bumped against trees and carried in a rifle case, there are no significant scuffs, cracks, or signs of structural compromise.
Maintenance has been straightforward; a light dusting after each outing and an occasional application of gun stock oil keeps it looking and feeling fresh. Compared to previous stocks, including a rather flimsy factory synthetic, this hardwood piece offers a tangible upgrade in durability and feel. While not a budget option, its robust construction and classic appeal justify the investment for anyone seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 110 TBR Blind Mag Long Action LH Stk RH Act Center Feed FBC
Specifications
This particular stock is designed for the Savage 110 TBR platform, featuring a Long Action length and accommodating a Center Feed magazine system. It is specifically configured for a Left Hand Stock with a Right Hand Action, a crucial detail for left-handed shooters who prefer a right-handed bolt. The material is a hardwood, specifically maple in the Nutmeg finish, known for its density and stability. The barrel channel is designed for a factory barrel, ensuring compatibility with standard profiles.
The choice of hardwood is a significant specification, offering a tactile feel and aesthetic appeal that synthetics often lack. This material choice directly influences the stock’s weight and its thermal expansion characteristics. The left-hand stock/right-hand action configuration is a niche but essential feature for a specific segment of the shooting community, ensuring proper ergonomics and operation. The blind magazine design means the magazine is internal and not visible from the outside, contributing to a cleaner profile.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary job – providing a stable and accurate platform for the Savage 110 action – this Boyds stock performs exceptionally well. The precise inletting meant that once bedded, the action was securely anchored, free from any lateral or vertical movement. This stability translated directly into improved shot consistency down at the range, especially during longer strings of fire.
A significant strength is the solid bedding it provides, minimizing potential flex that can negatively impact accuracy. The ergonomic grip and forend shape offer a comfortable and secure hold, even with gloved hands or during extended periods of use. A minor weakness, if one could call it that, is the potential for wood to absorb moisture if not properly sealed or maintained; however, with regular care, this is easily mitigated. It meets and arguably exceeds expectations for a replacement stock in this price bracket.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Prairie Hunter model from Boyds is a blend of traditional hunting rifle aesthetics with practical modern considerations. The hardwood construction imparts a substantial, premium feel, far removed from the hollow, plastic-like sensation of some synthetic stocks. The Nutmeg finish is visually appealing, showcasing the natural grain of the maple wood with a warm, inviting tone.
Ergonomically, the stock is well-profiled for a comfortable shoulder weld and a natural grip. The cheek comb is positioned well for iron sights or standard scope heights, and the pistol grip offers a solid purchase. The forend is substantial enough for a stable rest on bags or bipods, without being overly bulky. I appreciate the clean lines and the absence of unnecessary tactical embellishments, which aligns perfectly with its intended use as a hunting or general-purpose rifle stock.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardwood construction, specifically the hard maple, is inherently durable for its intended purpose. Under normal use for a rifle stock – which includes being carried, resting on various surfaces, and enduring recoil – it is built to last for many years. I have experienced no cracks or structural failures in my extended testing period.
Cleaning is as simple as wiping down the wood with a soft cloth and applying a quality stock finish or gun oil periodically. This not only protects the wood but also enhances its appearance. There are no complex parts to clean or maintain, making this stock exceptionally user-friendly from a maintenance perspective. The potential failure point for any wood stock is significant impact or prolonged exposure to extreme moisture without protection, but these are avoidable with common sense handling.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular model is designed to fit the Savage 110 TBR with a blind magazine and center feed action, meaning it is specifically engineered for that setup and does not typically come with extensive accessories. However, Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks often offers optional sling swivels that can be inletted, which I found to be a useful addition for hunting. Beyond that, the primary customization comes from the vast array of Boyds finishes and wood types they offer, allowing you to tailor the aesthetic to your preference.
While this stock itself doesn’t come with rifle-specific accessories like a magazine or bottom metal, it is designed to work seamlessly with the factory components of the Savage 110 TBR, ensuring a complete and functional rifle. The factory barrel channel is a key “feature” in that it simplifies installation, meaning you won’t need specialized re-profiling for standard barrel contours.
Pros and Cons of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 110 TBR Blind Mag Long Action LH Stk RH Act Center Feed FBC
Pros
- Excellent Fit and Finish: The inletting was precise, requiring minimal work to achieve a perfect bedding job with my Savage 110 action.
- Sturdy Hardwood Construction: The hard maple provides a solid, stable platform that feels substantial and durable.
- Classic Aesthetic: The Prairie Hunter design offers a traditional, attractive look that enhances the rifle’s appearance.
- Ergonomically Sound: The shape and profile offer a comfortable and secure grip, suitable for extended shooting or hunting sessions.
- Left-Hand Stock / Right-Hand Action Specificity: This is a critical feature for left-handed shooters who use right-handed actions.
Cons
- Wood’s Susceptibility to Moisture: While durable, wood requires proper sealing and maintenance to prevent damage from prolonged exposure to wet conditions.
- Limited Scope for Extreme Tactical Modifications: This is a traditional stock; it is not designed for heavy-duty tactical applications that might require accessory rails or aggressive modularity.
Who Should Buy the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 110 TBR Blind Mag Long Action LH Stk RH Act Center Feed FBC?
This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 110 TBR Blind Mag Long Action LH Stk RH Act Center Feed FBC is an ideal choice for left-handed Savage 110 owners who are looking to replace a worn or damaged factory stock with a high-quality, aesthetically pleasing upgrade. It’s perfect for hunters and recreational shooters who appreciate the feel, look, and stability of traditional hardwood construction. This model is specifically beneficial for those with a left-handed stock preference but using a right-handed Savage 110 action.
Individuals who should probably skip this product include those seeking a purely tactical, lightweight chassis system with extensive rail real estate for accessories. It is also not the best choice for users who cannot commit to basic wood stock maintenance or who frequently subject their firearms to extreme environmental conditions without proper care. For those looking to enhance their Savage 110, a quality set of scope rings and sling swivels would be highly recommended complementary items.
Conclusion on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 110 TBR Blind Mag Long Action LH Stk RH Act Center Feed FBC
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rifle Stock PH Savage 110 TBR Blind Mag Long Action LH Stk RH Act Center Feed FBC represents a significant upgrade for any Savage 110 owner seeking enhanced aesthetics, improved ergonomics, and superior stability. Its hardwood construction and precise inletting deliver a robust and reliable platform that directly contributes to shooting accuracy. While the price of $199.99 might seem substantial for a stock, the quality of materials, the meticulous craftsmanship, and the specific configuration for left-handed users make it a worthwhile investment.
I wholeheartedly recommend this stock to any left-handed shooter with a Savage 110 TBR, blind mag, long action rifle who values traditional craftsmanship and wants to breathe new life into their firearm. It offers excellent value, transforming a functional rifle into a beautifully crafted instrument that feels as good as it looks. If you’re in the market for a stock that blends classic appeal with solid performance, this Boyds model should be at the top of your list.