Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Ruger American Rimfire 22LR Rifle Stock Review

Unboxing & First Thoughts on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Ruger American Rimfire 22LR Rifle Stock

My Ruger American Rimfire has always been a dependable rifle, but the factory stock, while functional, lacked a certain je ne sais quoi. It was utilitarian, prone to collecting grime, and frankly, a bit bland for a rifle I genuinely enjoy shooting. I was looking for an upgrade that would enhance both the aesthetic and the handling of my .22LR, something that felt more substantial without sacrificing the rifle’s inherent lightness. After some research, I stumbled upon the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Ruger American Rimfire 22LR Rifle Stock, a product promising a significant visual and tactile improvement. I considered a few other aftermarket options, including more basic synthetic replacements and some custom-fitted fiberglass stocks, but the allure of a laminated hardwood stock, especially one designed for a rimfire hunting rifle, was strong. Upon receiving it, my initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship. The weight felt good, promising a nice heft without being cumbersome, and the wood grain was immediately appealing, hinting at a much more premium feel than the original.

Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Ruger American Rimfire 22LR Rifle Stock to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing ground for this stock was primarily two locations: my backyard range and a local state park known for its varied terrain, perfect for simulating hunting scenarios. I swapped the original stock out on a crisp autumn morning, and the installation itself was straightforward. The fit was precise, requiring minimal adjustment. The first shots were taken from a bench rest, allowing me to focus on the feel and stability this new stock provided. It immediately felt more solid, absorbing recoil – minimal as it is with a .22LR – in a way that translated to a more confident hold. Subsequent sessions involved off-hand shooting and some off-angle shooting from natural rests, where the improved ergonomics really came into play. I noticed it handled light dew and occasional splashes of mud without any immediate issues, the laminated hardwood resisting moisture better than I anticipated. The cheek weld was comfortable, and the overall handling felt more refined.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Ruger American Rimfire 22LR Rifle Stock has proven to be a resilient upgrade. It’s accompanied me on numerous range days, a couple of informal plinking trips, and even a light prairie dog hunt. Through it all, the stock has held up remarkably well. There are no visible cracks, significant scuffs, or any loosening of the material. The laminated hardwood has retained its integrity, showing no signs of warping or degrading even after being stored in varying humidity levels. Cleaning is as simple as wiping it down with a damp cloth, and the occasional application of a wood conditioner keeps the finish looking pristine. Compared to the original plastic stock, this is a night-and-day difference in terms of durability and feel; it simply feels like it’s built to last, unlike some cheaper synthetic alternatives that can become brittle or warped over time.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Ruger American Rimfire 22LR Rifle Stock

Specifications

This particular stock is engineered from laminated hardwood veneer, a significant step up from standard synthetic or even basic wood stocks. It’s designed specifically for the Ruger American Rimfire rifle, ensuring a precise fit. The Rimfire Hunter model, as its name suggests, offers a profile geared towards comfortable and stable shooting in hunting scenarios. The description mentions a hand-stained walnut cheek piece, adding a touch of traditional aesthetics and functional comfort for consistent sight acquisition. A notable detail is the stainless steel trim line along the edges, which is then hand-chattered for a superb, finished look that enhances grip and visual appeal.

These specifications translate directly into tangible benefits for the shooter. The laminated hardwood offers superior durability and resistance to the chemicals and finishes that often degrade lesser stocks over time. This means a longer lifespan and a more consistently attractive appearance. The ergonomic design of the Rimfire Hunter profile, including the cheek piece, is intended to improve shooter comfort and accuracy, especially during extended sessions. The subtle yet effective addition of the stainless steel trim and hand-chattering not only adds a touch of class but also provides a slightly improved tactile experience, offering a more secure grip. This is a stark contrast to the often slippery and uninspired feel of factory plastic stocks.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of any rifle stock is to provide a stable platform for the action and a comfortable interface for the shooter. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Ruger American Rimfire 22LR Rifle Stock excels at this. It offers a rock-solid bedding for the Ruger American Rimfire action, which contributes to improved shot consistency. The weight distribution feels balanced, making the rifle feel more like an extension of the shooter rather than just an accessory attached to a barrel. Its performance in various shooting positions, from prone to kneeling, is excellent, providing a firm and reliable anchor point.

The strengths of this stock are evident in its stability and the enhanced feel it imparts to the rifle. The laminated wood construction feels substantial and premium. A minor weakness, if one could even call it that, is that the increased heft might be a consideration for absolute weight-conscious backpackers, but for a rimfire rifle used in a hunting or range setting, the added weight is more of a benefit for stability. It meets and, in terms of feel and aesthetics, certainly exceeds the expectations set by the factory offering.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Rimfire Hunter stock is thoughtful and visually appealing. The laminated hardwood grain is attractive, and the overall silhouette is classic yet functional. The hand-stained walnut cheek piece is a standout feature; it’s precisely positioned for a comfortable and repeatable cheek weld, which is crucial for consistent aiming. The finish on the wood is smooth but not slippery, providing a good grip even with slightly damp hands. The stainless steel trim line adds a touch of elegance and also offers a subtle texture that aids in securing the rifle.

Ergonomically, the stock feels natural to shoulder and hold. The forend has a comfortable taper that allows for a relaxed grip, whether shooting from a rest or with a sling. The pistol grip is well-contoured, fitting comfortably in the hand without being too bulky. There’s a minimal learning curve; if you’re accustomed to shooting a rifle, this stock feels intuitive from the first moment. The tactile feedback from the wood and the well-executed cheek piece make for a more enjoyable shooting experience.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Ruger American Rimfire 22LR Rifle Stock is built to last. The laminated hardwood construction is inherently robust, resisting the common issues of warping, cracking, or splintering that can plague less durable materials. Under normal use, which for me includes being tossed in the truck, bumping against trees, and general handling, I anticipate this stock will serve for many years. Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a soft, damp cloth usually suffices to remove dust and light debris. For deeper cleaning or to refresh the finish, a quality wood cleaner and a light application of a wood conditioner are all that’s needed.

There are no obvious or known failure points with this type of construction when properly manufactured. Unlike some synthetic stocks that can become brittle with age or UV exposure, or even solid wood stocks that can be susceptible to moisture, the lamination process used by Boyds creates a highly stable and resistant material. I haven’t encountered any issues that would suggest a need for special care beyond standard firearm cleaning practices.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Ruger American Rimfire 22LR Rifle Stock itself is a significant upgrade, it’s worth noting that Boyds offers various finishes and options for their stocks. This particular model comes with the pre-installed hand-stained walnut cheek piece and stainless steel trim. Beyond that, the primary “accessory” is the rifle it’s attached to; it’s designed to accept the Ruger American Rimfire action securely. There aren’t many other typical “accessories” for a rifle stock in this context, but the quality of the finish and the precision of the fit are the key elements that make this a valuable component. It integrates seamlessly with the rifle’s existing sling swivel studs and magazine well.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Ruger American Rimfire 22LR Rifle Stock

Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Ruger American Rimfire 22LR Rifle Stock?

This stock is an excellent choice for owners of the Ruger American Rimfire who are looking to significantly upgrade the rifle’s appearance, feel, and handling. It’s ideal for casual shooters, hunters, and plinkers who appreciate quality craftsmanship and want their firearm to look as good as it shoots. If you’ve found the factory stock to be somewhat utilitarian or uncomfortable for longer shooting sessions, this aftermarket option will be a welcome change.

Those who should probably skip this might be individuals prioritizing absolute minimal weight for extreme backcountry survival situations, where every ounce matters. Also, if your budget is extremely tight and you’re just looking for the cheapest functional replacement, this might be overkill. For those looking to enhance their rifle, I’d also recommend considering a good quality bipod if you do a lot of bench shooting, and a comfortable sling that utilizes the stock’s sling swivel studs for field use.

Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Ruger American Rimfire 22LR Rifle Stock

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Ruger American Rimfire 22LR Rifle Stock is a substantial upgrade that transforms the feel and appearance of the Ruger American Rimfire rifle. For its price point of $175.99, you are getting a product that delivers on aesthetics, ergonomics, and durability. The laminated hardwood construction, coupled with thoughtful design elements like the walnut cheek piece and stainless steel trim, offers a premium experience that far surpasses the factory offering. I would absolutely recommend this stock to anyone looking to elevate their Ruger American Rimfire. It strikes an excellent balance between form and function, making your rimfire rifle a more enjoyable and aesthetically pleasing firearm to own and shoot.