Does the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 111 Side Release Detachable Box Mag Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel Live Up to Its Name?
As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of experience across diverse environments – from gritty workshops to precise lab settings, and rugged outdoor expeditions – I’ve developed a keen eye for what truly works. This is why I was drawn to the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 111 Side Release Detachable Box Mag Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel. My Savage 111, a reliable workhorse for years, was due for an upgrade in its handling and aesthetic. The factory stock, while functional, lacked the refinement and ergonomic advantages I craved for longer shooting sessions and improved accuracy. I specifically sought out a thumbhole design, believing it would offer a more stable and comfortable grip. My primary criteria were improved ergonomics, enhanced stability, and a touch of personal flair without compromising on the rifle’s inherent accuracy. I briefly considered a generic synthetic stock, but the allure of natural hardwood and the specialized design of this Boyds offering quickly swayed my decision. Upon unboxing, the substantial feel of the wood and the promising contours offered an immediate sense of quality and a hint of satisfaction.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 111 Side Release Detachable Box Mag Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial encounter with this stock was on my workbench, fitting it to my Savage 111 action. The process was straightforward, with the factory barrel channel providing a precise fit that required minimal inletting adjustments. I then took it to my usual shooting range, a semi-outdoor facility with covered firing lanes, which exposes firearms to a range of conditions from bright sun to occasional dust. I spent a good couple of hours testing it out, focusing on offhand shooting and prone positions. The thumbhole design immediately felt more natural in my grip, encouraging a more relaxed yet firm hold. While the fit was generally excellent, I noticed a slight, almost imperceptible, play in the forend that required a small shim to eliminate.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including a week-long varmint hunting trip and countless range days, this stock has proven its mettle. It has endured being stowed in vehicle trunks, subjected to moderate dust, and even a light sprinkle of rain without any adverse effects on the wood’s integrity or finish. Cleaning is as simple as wiping down any wooden surface, and the checkering, though subtle, has maintained its grip-enhancing texture. Compared to the original synthetic stock, the overall rigidity and the consistent cheek weld it provides have undeniably contributed to tighter shot groups. I experienced no stiffness in the wood or any degradation in its structural integrity, even after being removed and reinstalled a couple of times for accessory mounting.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 111 Side Release Detachable Box Mag Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 111 Side Release Detachable Box Mag Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel is crafted from durable hardwood, chosen for its strength and aesthetic appeal. It features a distinctive thumbhole opening, which promotes a more natural and stable shooting platform by allowing the thumb to rest comfortably within the enlarged grip. The stock’s top surface incorporates rolled-up real estate, providing a comfortable and consistent spot for the shooter’s hand to rest, further enhancing control. At the bottom of the grip, a subtle ledge is integrated, designed to anchor the thumb during firing, reducing felt recoil and improving shot discipline. The forend is cleverly designed with a notch, contributing to a comfortable and repeatable cheek weld, which is crucial for accurate aiming. This model is specifically designed for the Savage 111 Side Release Detachable Box Mag action, ensuring a precise fit for long action rifles. The stock itself is a left-hand stock designed to accommodate a right-hand action, a crucial detail for certain rifle configurations. The factory barrel channel means it’s engineered to accept barrels as they come from the manufacturer, simplifying installation for many users.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary function, this stock delivers significantly improved handling and stability. The thumbhole design inherently guides the shooter’s hand into a consistent position, and the added grip ledges and cheek weld support all contribute to more precise shot placement. The overall rigidity of the hardwood construction minimizes flex during firing, which is a common issue with some lighter synthetic stocks. While it doesn’t magically add accuracy, it certainly allows the shooter to better utilize the inherent accuracy of their rifle by providing a more stable platform. The only minor critique is the slight give I mentioned, which, while easily corrected, suggests that not every single stock is perfectly dimensioned out of the box.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this Boyds stock is where it truly shines. The thumbhole opening is generously sized, accommodating gloved hands with ease, and the overall shape feels substantial and well-balanced. The hardwood itself, even in its unfinished state before I applied my own custom sealant, feels robust and provides a pleasant tactile experience. The checkering on the grip and forend, while not overly aggressive, offers sufficient purchase in various conditions. The contours are thoughtfully sculpted, and the rolled top edge of the stock provides a comfortable resting place for the shooting hand, reducing fatigue during extended periods at the range. The overall impression is one of thoughtful craftsmanship and a focus on user comfort.
Durability & Maintenance
Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks are known for their durability, and this model is no exception. The hardwood construction is inherently tough and resistant to impacts that might crack lesser materials. The finish, which I applied myself, has held up exceptionally well to sweat, oils, and the general wear and tear of field use. Cleaning involves simple wiping down with a damp cloth and occasional application of a wood conditioning oil to maintain the finish and prevent drying. I haven’t encountered any signs of splitting, warping, or loosening of components, even after significant exposure to temperature and humidity fluctuations during my hunting trip. The factory barrel channel is precisely machined and shows no signs of wear or enlargement from repeated barrel seating.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular model comes as a standalone stock, meaning there are no immediate accessories included. However, the Savage 111 platform is well-supported in the aftermarket, and this stock readily accepts common additions like aftermarket trigger guards or bipod adapters that can be bedded into the forend. The left-hand stock configuration with a right-hand action compatibility is a specific niche, but within that niche, customization is straightforward. The unfinished wood also presents an opportunity for personalization through staining, painting, or applying custom finishes to match your aesthetic preferences or create a more rugged appearance. The detachable box mag inlet is perfectly cut to accommodate the magazine release mechanism, ensuring smooth operation without interference.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 111 Side Release Detachable Box Mag Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
Pros
- Exceptional Ergonomics: The thumbhole opening and sculpted grip provide superior comfort and control for extended shooting sessions.
- **Superior Stability: ** The design promotes a consistent shooting platform, aiding in improved accuracy and reduced felt recoil.
- High-Quality Material: Crafted from durable hardwood, offering both robustness and a classic aesthetic.
- **Precise Fitment: ** The factory barrel channel and inletting for the Savage 111 action ensure a near-perfect fit, minimizing bedding work.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The natural wood grain and traditional design add significant visual appeal to the rifle.
- **Dedicated Design: ** Specifically engineered for Savage 111 Side Release Detachable Box Mag Long Action rifles, addressing specific firearm configurations.
Cons
- **Minor Fitment Nuances: ** While generally excellent, very minor adjustments might be needed for perfect zero-tolerance fit in some instances.
- Requires Finishing: The stock typically comes unfinished, requiring additional time and materials to seal and protect the wood.
- Weight Consideration: Hardwood is heavier than some synthetic alternatives, which could be a factor for those prioritizing extreme lightweight builds.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 111 Side Release Detachable Box Mag Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel?
This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 111 Side Release Detachable Box Mag Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel is an ideal upgrade for Savage 111 long action rifle owners who are seeking to enhance both the ergonomics and aesthetics of their firearm. It’s particularly well-suited for shooters who value comfort during long days at the range or during extended hunting trips. Those who appreciate the classic look and feel of a finely crafted wooden stock will find this model very appealing.
Individuals who are looking for an off-the-shelf solution that requires minimal modification to fit their specific left-hand stock / right-hand action Savage rifle should also strongly consider this option. However, users who require an ultra-lightweight rifle for strenuous backcountry travel might want to weigh the added weight of hardwood against its other benefits. Furthermore, those who are not comfortable with basic woodworking tasks like sanding and sealing might find the initial finishing steps a hurdle. Complementary items like a good quality gun oil for the wood finish, a torque wrench for action screw tightening, and potentially a bedding compound for any minor adjustments would complete the setup perfectly.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 111 Side Release Detachable Box Mag Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Savage 111 Side Release Detachable Box Mag Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel is a truly excellent upgrade for any Savage 111 long action rifle. It successfully blends superior ergonomics with a classic, appealing design, significantly enhancing the shooting experience. The quality of the hardwood and the precision of the inletting are testament to Boyds’ craftsmanship. For its price point, the value offered in terms of improved handling, stability, and aesthetic upgrade is substantial, especially considering the specialized left-hand stock for a right-hand action configuration. I would wholeheartedly recommend this stock to any Savage 111 owner looking to elevate their rifle’s performance and appearance, provided they are prepared for the minor finishing steps involved. It’s a piece of gear that feels crafted, not just manufactured, and it elevates the user’s connection with their firearm.