One Month Later: Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Savage 620/Savage 30 Review
When the original stock on my trusty, if somewhat dated, Savage pump-action began to show its age – a combination of splintering near the receiver and a general loss of its factory sheen – I knew it was time for a replacement. The goal was to breathe new life into an old firearm, restoring both its aesthetic appeal and its functional integrity without breaking the bank. My search led me to Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, specifically their offering for the Savage 620/Savage 30 lineage. First impressions upon unboxing were of a solid, well-formed piece of wood, a significant upgrade from the battered original. It felt substantial, promising a return to the firearm’s intended form and feel. I’d briefly considered a generic synthetic stock for cost savings, but the allure of classic hardwood for this particular model was too strong. My initial reaction was a sense of quiet satisfaction; this felt like the right move for a firearm deserving of a respectful restoration.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Savage 620/Savage 30 to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial fitting process for this Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Savage 620/Savage 30 required some minor fettling, primarily around the inletting for the receiver and trigger guard. This is not uncommon for aftermarket stocks, and a bit of careful sanding with medium-grit sandpaper quickly resolved any tight spots. I tested it during a weekend session at my home workshop, focusing on fit and finish. The walnut wood felt smooth but offered a good, positive grip, even without checkering.
After the initial fitting, I took the fully assembled firearm to the range for function testing. The improved handling and stability were immediately noticeable. The stock maintained its feel through repeated firing cycles, absorbing recoil adequately. I experienced no issues with shifting or looseness, even after a couple of hours of sustained shooting.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the past month, this stock has become a permanent fixture on my Savage. It has seen regular use, including trips to a local informal shooting range and simply being handled frequently while cleaning and maintaining the firearm. The finished walnut has proven remarkably resilient; despite a few accidental bumps against my workbench, there are no significant dents or scratches.
Durability has been excellent, with no signs of stress cracking or warping, even in varying workshop temperatures. Maintenance has been straightforward, requiring only an occasional wipe-down with a soft cloth and a light application of furniture polish to maintain its luster. Compared to the brittle, original stock, this Boyds replacement is a night-and-day difference in terms of longevity and tactile quality.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Savage 620/Savage 30
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Savage 620/Savage 30 stock is crafted from high-quality hardwood, specifically walnut for the model reviewed, and comes with a durable factory finish. It is designed to fit a wide array of Savage and Stevens models, including the Savage 620, Savage 30F, Savage 520A, and many others listed, catering to a broad user base. The primary function of this stock is to provide a solid, ergonomic platform for the firearm, replacing worn or damaged original components.
The walnut finish contributes significantly to the aesthetic appeal, giving older firearms a classic, refined look. This particular stock is designed for models with a trigger guard safety, a crucial detail for ensuring proper fitment and function. The precise inletting, while sometimes requiring minor adjustment, ensures that once fitted, it integrates seamlessly with the firearm’s action.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary role, this stock excels at providing a stable and comfortable shooting experience. The solid wood construction offers a pleasant heft and contributes to a more controlled felt recoil. The finished surface feels good in the hand, offering a secure grip without being abrasive.
The main strength of this replacement stock is its ability to restore the classic feel and functionality of these older Savage models. It fits the receiver and barrel channel well, ensuring proper alignment for accurate shooting. A minor weakness, if one could call it that, is the occasional need for slight inletting adjustments, which is standard for many aftermarket parts.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this Boyds stock is rooted in traditional firearm aesthetics, favoring clean lines and a classic silhouette. The walnut hardwood feels substantial and well-balanced, providing a comfortable heft that enhances the overall feel of the firearm. The finished surface is smooth to the touch, offering a pleasant tactile experience.
Ergonomically, it’s designed for general use, providing a natural point of aim and a comfortable shoulder weld. While it doesn’t feature aggressive checkering or specialized grips, its smooth finish still provides adequate purchase for most shooting scenarios. The traditional pistol grip shape is classic and comfortable for extended handling.
Durability & Maintenance
This Boyds stock is built for longevity, with the hardwood construction offering excellent resistance to the typical stresses of firearm use. The factory finish adds another layer of protection against minor abrasions and environmental factors. Under normal handling and shooting conditions, it is expected to last for many years, if not decades.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple; a regular wipe-down with a soft cloth and occasional application of wood polish is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition. There are no complex mechanisms or parts to worry about; it’s a solid piece of wood designed for durability. Any potential concerns would likely stem from extreme misuse, such as prolonged immersion in water or impact with sharp objects, which are not typical for firearm stocks.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Savage 620/Savage 30 model is the stock itself, meaning accessories would be firearm-specific. It is designed to accept the standard Savage 620/Savage 30 action and trigger guard components. While Boyds offers different finishes and some inletting options, this specific product is a finished stock ready for installation.
The primary “customization” comes from the choice of selecting a Boyds stock over a lesser option, or opting for a different wood grade if available. Its compatibility with numerous Savage models is its key feature, allowing users to revive various firearms in the 620/30 family. There are no integrated accessory mounts or rail systems as this is a classic-style stock.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Savage 620/Savage 30
Pros
- Exceptional Build Quality: The use of high-quality walnut hardwood provides a substantial and aesthetically pleasing replacement.
- Classic Aesthetics: This stock brings a traditional and refined look back to older Savage firearms.
- Improved Feel and Handling: Offers a much better tactile experience and more secure grip compared to worn-out originals.
- Good Durability: The finished hardwood is resistant to common wear and tear, promising long-term use.
- Wide Fitment Range: Designed to accommodate a comprehensive list of Savage and Stevens models, making it a versatile choice.
Cons
- Minor Inletting Adjustments May Be Required: As with many aftermarket stocks, some users might need to do a little sanding for a perfect fit.
- No Advanced Features: Lacks modern additions like accessory rails or aggressive checkering for those seeking a tactical setup.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Savage 620/Savage 30?
This stock is an ideal choice for owners of Savage 620 or Savage 30 series firearms who are looking to restore their weapon to its former glory. It is perfect for those who appreciate the classic look and feel of traditional hardwood stocks and want to replace a damaged, worn, or unappealing original. It’s also a great option for individuals undertaking a full restoration project on these vintage firearms.
Anyone seeking a modern, tactical stock with Picatinny rails or specialized grips should look elsewhere. This model is for traditionalists who value form and function rooted in the past. For optimal installation, having basic woodworking tools like sandpaper and potentially a small file on hand would be beneficial.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Savage 620/Savage 30
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Savage 620/Savage 30 offers a fantastic blend of aesthetic appeal, solid construction, and practical functionality for owners of these classic Savage firearms. For its price point, the quality of the walnut hardwood and the factory finish is truly impressive, providing a significant upgrade over most original stocks that have endured decades of use. While a small amount of fitting may be required, this is a minor consideration given the overall value and the dramatic improvement in both the look and feel of the firearm.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this stock to anyone looking to revive a Savage 620 or Savage 30 series shotgun or rifle. It strikes an excellent balance between affordability and quality, breathing new life into a firearm that deserves it. If you own one of these models and its stock is showing its age, investing in this Boyds replacement is a decision you’re unlikely to regret.