H-S Precision REM700 LA RN Sporter Thumbhole Review

My Real Take on the H-S Precision REM700 LA RN Sporter Thumbhole

For years, my Remington 700 Long Action in .30-06 had been languishing in a rather pedestrian factory synthetic stock. While functional, it lacked any real aesthetic appeal or ergonomic advantage, especially when it came to precise shooting. The need for a more stable, comfortable platform became apparent after a particularly frustrating day at the range, where my usual precision was hampered by a stock that simply didn’t facilitate a consistent grip. This led me to search for an aftermarket upgrade, and the H-S Precision REM700 LA RN Sporter Thumbhole quickly rose to the top of my list. Its reputation for quality bedding and an aggressive, yet functional, thumbhole design was exactly what I was looking for.

While I briefly considered other brands like Bell & Carlson or even a custom laminate, the full-length aluminum bedding block offered by H-S Precision was a significant draw. It promised superior rigidity and bedding for the action, which is crucial for accuracy. My initial impression upon unboxing this stock was one of solid craftsmanship. The matte black finish felt durable, and the thumbhole grip, while pronounced, seemed intuitively placed. It felt substantial, hinting at the quality components and manufacturing that goes into these stocks.

The primary driver for this upgrade was the desire for improved accuracy and shooter comfort. My old stock allowed for too much flex, and my hand position varied with each shot, negatively impacting consistency. I was hoping this H-S Precision stock would provide a more stable and repeatable shooting platform, allowing me to better exploit the inherent accuracy of my Remington 700 action. There was an immediate sense of satisfaction knowing I was stepping up to a piece of equipment designed for serious performance.

Real-World Testing: Putting the H-S Precision REM700 LA RN Sporter Thumbhole to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for the H-S Precision stock were the familiar benches at my local outdoor range. Installing the barreled action was straightforward, and the full-length aluminum bedding block provided a rock-solid foundation for the Remington 700 LA. The initial feel of the stock was a significant upgrade; the thumbhole grip immediately facilitated a more natural and stable hand position.

During extended shooting sessions, the stock performed admirably, even under a warm barrel. The material seemed to dissipate heat well, and there was no discernible shift in point of impact after multiple strings of fire. Unlike the flexible factory stock, this unit felt incredibly rigid, and the improved grip certainly translated to better control.

The ease of use was remarkable. The right-hand thumb-hole grip felt custom-made for my hand from the moment I picked it up. There was no significant learning curve; it simply made shooting feel more intuitive and comfortable.

One minor surprise was the weight. While the specs indicate a robust construction, the overall feel was one of solid, well-distributed heft, which I appreciated for stability. There were no immediate issues or quirks; it performed exactly as I had hoped from the outset.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including some chilly autumn mornings and warmer late summer days, the H-S Precision stock has held up exceptionally well. It has become my go-to for static range shooting and has proven its reliability in maintaining consistent accuracy. The black, durable finish shows only faint signs of handling, no significant scuffs or wear that would detract from its functionality or appearance.

Durability has been a strong suit. There are absolutely no signs of cracks, stiffness, or any performance degradation. The bedding remains exceptionally secure, and the action is held firmly in place, ensuring that accuracy remains paramount.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and a soft brush are all that’s needed to keep it clean. I’ve found no specific quirks to watch out for beyond standard firearm care.

Compared to my previous factory stock, the improvement is night and day. It far surpasses any budget aftermarket option I’ve encountered in terms of rigidity and ergonomic feel. While I haven’t tested any ultra-premium custom stocks, this H-S Precision model offers a performance level that punches well above its price point, bridging the gap effectively.

Breaking Down the Features of the H-S Precision REM700 LA RN Sporter Thumbhole

Specifications

This stock is designed specifically for the Remington 700 long action, right-hand BDL models with a standard sporter/hunting barrel contour. A key feature is the full-length aluminum bedding block, which forms the backbone of the stock, providing unparalleled rigidity and a solid, consistent mating surface for the rifle’s action. This bedding block is critical for ensuring that the action doesn’t flex or shift, which is paramount for repeatable accuracy.

The design includes a pronounced right-hand thumb-hole grip. This specific feature allows for a more natural and ergonomic hand placement, promoting better trigger control and overall stability when shouldering the rifle. The thumbhole design also helps to prevent hand fatigue during longer shooting sessions.

The stock is finished in a durable matte black. This color is not only aesthetically pleasing, blending well with most rifle components, but also practical, offering good camouflage and resisting glare. The material itself is a composite, known for its strength, light weight relative to its durability, and resistance to environmental factors like moisture and temperature fluctuations.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of this stock is to provide a stable, accurate platform for a Remington 700 long action, and it excels at this. The full-length aluminum bedding block is the star player here, ensuring the action is securely and precisely seated. This rigidity directly translates into improved shot-to-shot consistency.

The thumbhole grip significantly enhances the shooter’s ability to maintain a consistent hold. This not only aids in accuracy but also makes the rifle feel more comfortable to manage. For me, this meant noticeably tighter groups on paper compared to my old stock.

A slight weakness, if one can call it that, is the specific fit for a standard sporter barrel contour. While ideal for many setups, those with heavy varmint or magnum contours might require a different H-S Precision model or significant bedding work to ensure proper clearance. This specific model is optimized for a particular barrel profile, which is a strength if it matches your needs, but a limitation if it doesn’t.

Overall, the performance meets and exceeds expectations, especially considering its purpose. It delivers on its promise of enhanced stability and ergonomic comfort, making good rifles shoot even better.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the H-S Precision REM700 LA RN Sporter Thumbhole is immediately apparent. The composite material feels dense and robust, and the integration of the aluminum bedding block is seamless. The matte black finish is uniform and appears quite resistant to scratches.

Ergonomically, the stock is a triumph for right-handed shooters. The thumbhole grip naturally guides the index finger to the trigger, and the overall shape encourages a relaxed yet firm grip. This design minimizes the need for the shooter to exert extra effort to maintain control, which is a huge plus for extended range sessions.

Practical design elements include the slight palm swell that complements the thumbhole, providing a secure purchase. The forend is well-proportioned for a sporter contour barrel, offering a stable resting point on bags or rests. There are no complex levers or controls that could snag or complicate use; it’s a straightforward, functional design.

Durability & Maintenance

Given its construction with a solid composite and an internal aluminum bedding block, this stock is built to last. I anticipate it will easily outlive the rifle action it houses under normal use. Its robust design suggests it can handle the bumps and knocks that are an inevitable part of transporting a rifle to and from the field or range.

Maintenance is incredibly straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes dust and dirt, and a soft brush can get into any nooks and crannies if needed. No special solvents or lubricants are required for the stock itself.

The primary concern with any rifle stock of this type would be potential damage from extreme impacts, but the H-S Precision is designed to absorb a fair amount of abuse. It’s unlikely to develop structural weaknesses unless subjected to gross mishandling.

Accessories and Customization Options

This specific product, the H-S Precision REM700 LA RN Sporter Thumbhole, is a self-contained unit focused on providing a superior stock for a specific rifle action. It does not typically come with additional accessories in the traditional sense, such as swivels or bipod adapters, unless explicitly noted in a package. However, the stock is designed to accept standard sling swivels.

Customization is largely centered around the rifle action and optics you pair with it. The stock itself is a finished product, but its compatibility with other components is a key aspect. It is designed to accept standard Remington 700 long action barreled actions, and its forend is shaped to accommodate standard sporter barrel contours.

While the stock itself isn’t highly customizable in terms of color or features (beyond the initial purchase options), its function is to serve as an excellent foundation for building a highly accurate and personalized rifle system. The true “customization” comes from selecting the right barrel, action, trigger, and optic to pair with this robust stock.

Pros and Cons of the H-S Precision REM700 LA RN Sporter Thumbhole

Who Should Buy the H-S Precision REM700 LA RN Sporter Thumbhole?

This stock is an ideal upgrade for owners of Remington 700 Long Action rifles in right-hand configuration who are looking to enhance their shooting accuracy and comfort. It is particularly well-suited for hunters and precision shooters who utilize a standard sporter or hunting barrel contour and want to maximize the performance of their rifle. If you’re tired of the flex and inconsistency of a factory synthetic stock, this is a fantastic choice.

Anyone needing a stock for a heavy varmint barrel, a bull barrel, or a left-handed action should look elsewhere, as this particular model is specifically engineered for a right-hand, standard sporter barrel. While it is an investment, those who prioritize repeatable accuracy and a stable shooting platform will find it well worth the cost. For optimal use, pairing it with a quality scope and a good trigger would further enhance the shooting experience.

Conclusion on the H-S Precision REM700 LA RN Sporter Thumbhole

The H-S Precision REM700 LA RN Sporter Thumbhole is a superb upgrade for any Remington 700 Long Action owner seeking to elevate their rifle’s performance and handling. The full-length aluminum bedding block is a critical component that delivers on its promise of exceptional rigidity, directly translating into improved accuracy. The comfortable and functional thumb-hole grip further enhances the shooting experience, making longer sessions more enjoyable and accurate.

Considering its price point of $424.00, the value proposition is strong. It offers a level of precision and build quality that often commands a higher price tag. For dedicated shooters who understand the importance of a solid foundation for their action, this stock is a wise investment. I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any right-handed Remington 700 LA owner with a standard sporter barrel contour who is serious about improving their rifle’s accuracy and their own shooting consistency. It transforms a good rifle into a truly exceptional one.