The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage110 1St Gen Blind Mag Short Action Left Hand Stock Left Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel in Action: First Look
Finding a reliable and well-made stock for a specific firearm action can be a frustrating endeavor. My own Savage 110, a first-generation blind magazine model, needed a serious upgrade from its utilitarian factory polymer. I was specifically looking for a left-hand stock that offered improved ergonomics and a more substantial feel, without breaking the bank. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage110 1St Gen Blind Mag Short Action Left Hand Stock Left Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel immediately caught my eye due to its promising description and the reputation of Boyds as a solid manufacturer. It offers a significant departure from basic replacements, aiming for both aesthetics and function. Considering options from custom shops that would cost exponentially more, this Boyds offering seemed like a sensible middle ground. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of quiet satisfaction; the wood felt solid and the finish, while not bespoke, was certainly leagues above what came off the rifle.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage110 1St Gen Blind Mag Short Action Left Hand Stock Left Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed this Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage110 1St Gen Blind Mag Short Action Left Hand Stock Left Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel on my Savage 110 rifle in a controlled workshop environment before taking it to the range. The initial fitting required careful alignment of the action screws, a process that felt familiar yet precise due to the stock’s intended fitment. The feel of the hardwood was immediately more substantial and warmer than the cold, hollow polymer it replaced. I didn’t encounter any immediate issues, though ensuring the action bedded properly was paramount.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including numerous trips to the range and time spent in a dusty garage, the Prairie Hunter stock has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking or significant wear on the finish, even with occasional bumps against benches or equipment. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe down with a damp cloth and occasional light wood polish is all that’s needed to maintain its appearance. Compared to previous polymer stocks that would scuff easily, this hardwood unit feels far more robust.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage110 1St Gen Blind Mag Short Action Left Hand Stock Left Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
Specifications
This stock is designed specifically for the Savage 110 1st Gen blind mag short action, featuring left-hand action compatibility with a factory barrel channel. The action screw spacing is noted to fit the normal short or C & R pattern, ensuring a snug fit for compatible Savage 110 variants. The material is hardwood, consistent with other Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks products, and it comes with their standard finish. The Prairie Hunter series is characterized by its rounded bottom corners, a checkered forend, and a full-length top rail, all contributing to its functional and aesthetic appeal. These specifications are crucial because they dictate compatibility and how the stock will interact with the rifle’s action, directly impacting handling and accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of this replacement stock is to provide a stable and ergonomic platform for the rifle. The Prairie Hunter Savage110 1St Gen Blind Mag Short Action Left Hand Stock Left Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel excels in this regard, offering a noticeably more solid bedding for the Savage 110 action than its original counterpart. The improved grip from the checkered forend is a tangible benefit, especially during off-hand shooting or when handling the rifle with gloves. It meets and exceeds expectations for a stock in its price range, providing a significant upgrade in feel and handling.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Prairie Hunter stock emphasizes a blend of classic lines and practical usability. The rounded bottom corners lend a softer, more comfortable feel when shouldering the rifle for extended periods. The full-length top rail provides a clean and uninterrupted sight plane for iron sights or optics. The checkered forend is well-executed, offering a secure grip without being overly aggressive, which is ideal for various shooting conditions. The overall build quality feels substantial, giving confidence in its durability and how it will hold up to rigorous use.
Durability & Maintenance
Crafted from hardwood, this Boyds stock is inherently more durable than many synthetic alternatives, especially against impacts and abrasions. It’s designed for longevity and should easily outlast several rifles if properly cared for. Maintenance is minimal; occasional cleaning and a light waxing are sufficient to keep it in excellent condition. There are no obvious points of failure in the design itself; the main concerns would be around the bedding of the action, which is dependent on proper installation.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular model is sold as a standalone stock replacement, so it doesn’t come with additional accessories. However, its design is intended to work seamlessly with the existing Savage 110 action and a factory barrel channel, meaning no special adapters or custom parts are needed for installation. The full-length top rail is designed to accommodate standard scope mounts, and the overall profile is conducive to various aftermarket stocks, ensuring compatibility with common shooting accessories.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage110 1St Gen Blind Mag Short Action Left Hand Stock Left Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
Pros
- Excellent material quality: The hardwood construction feels robust and premium.
- Improved ergonomics: The design offers a more comfortable and secure grip.
- Precise fit: Designed specifically for Savage 110 1st Gen actions.
- Enhanced aesthetics: A significant visual upgrade over factory polymer stocks.
- Durable finish: Resists wear and tear from regular use.
Cons
- Installation can be precise: Requires careful alignment of the action.
- Limited customization out-of-the-box: Sold as a direct replacement, no extras included.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage110 1St Gen Blind Mag Short Action Left Hand Stock Left Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel?
This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage110 1St Gen Blind Mag Short Action Left Hand Stock Left Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel is an ideal choice for any left-handed shooter who owns a Savage 110 1st Generation rifle with a blind magazine. It’s perfect for those looking to upgrade from a basic factory stock to something more substantial, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing without venturing into the custom shop price range. Enthusiasts who appreciate the feel and look of traditional wood stocks will find this model particularly appealing. Those who need a sterile, medical-grade product or an ultra-compact, lightweight component for extreme tactical applications should look elsewhere, as this is a rifle stock designed for field and range use.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage110 1St Gen Blind Mag Short Action Left Hand Stock Left Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
Overall, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage110 1St Gen Blind Mag Short Action Left Hand Stock Left Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel offers exceptional value for its price point. It delivers a noticeable upgrade in both feel and performance for compatible Savage 110 rifles, transforming a utilitarian firearm into something more refined and enjoyable to shoot. The blend of solid construction, ergonomic design, and classic aesthetics makes it a highly recommended upgrade. For any left-handed shooter with a first-generation Savage 110 blind magazine action looking for a superior stock, this Boyds offering is a clear winner that justifies its cost through tangible improvements.