Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Review

The Good, the Bad & the Real of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

My quest for a more stable and aesthetically pleasing platform for my beloved Winchester Model 670 had led me down a rabbit hole of aftermarket options. The factory stock, while functional, had always felt a bit utilitarian, lacking the solid feel and classic lines I desired. After considerable research, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock emerged as a prime contender, promising a blend of durable construction and traditional craftsmanship. My initial interaction with this stock revealed a substantial piece of laminated hardwood, exhibiting a satisfying heft and an evident commitment to quality manufacturing. While I briefly considered other manufacturers offering synthetic stocks for their purported weather resistance, the inherent warmth and timeless appeal of wood, especially laminated hardwood, ultimately won out. First impressions suggested a well-executed product, sparking a sense of optimism that this would be the perfect marriage for my rifle.

Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test

First Use Experience

The initial fitting process was straightforward, requiring minimal effort to seat my Winchester 670 receiver. I tested this stock in a variety of environments, including a dusty shooting range, a humid outdoor bench, and the controlled environment of my workshop. The laminated hardwood felt reassuringly solid, even when exposed to moderate temperature fluctuations and a light misting rain. I found the ergonomics to be intuitive, with the classic Prairie Hunter profile fitting naturally into my shoulder and hand. One minor surprise was the slightly tighter tolerance in the barrel channel than I had anticipated; however, a few minutes of careful sanding resolved this issue without compromising structural integrity.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, the Boyds stock has held up admirably. It has accompanied me on multiple range days, enduring the recoil of .30-06 rounds without any discernible loosening or degradation. There are no visible signs of stress, cracks, or undue wear on the surface, despite being handled regularly and occasionally transported in a rifle case. Cleaning and maintenance are as simple as any fine wooden stock; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and a periodic application of wood polish keeps it looking pristine. Compared to the plastic or composite stocks I’ve used in the past, this wooden option offers a distinct tactile advantage and a significant upgrade in perceived durability.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

Specifications

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is constructed from laminated hardwood, a material known for its strength, stability, and attractive grain patterns. It is specifically designed for the Winchester Model 670, featuring a long action configuration to accommodate the appropriate receiver length. A key detail is its no floor plate design, which simplifies the inletting and reduces potential points of snagging. The stock also includes a precision fit recoil lug for enhanced bedding and improved accuracy, along with a pre-drilled stubby barrel channel that accommodates factory barrel profiles, requiring minimal modification for most standard barrel contours.

These specifications are crucial for any rifle stock, as they directly impact fit, function, and performance. The laminated hardwood offers superior resistance to warping and environmental changes compared to traditional solid wood stocks, ensuring consistent point of impact. The long action inletting guarantees compatibility with the correct receiver size, preventing critical misalignments. The no floor plate design streamlines the stock’s profile and can contribute to a lighter overall rifle weight. Finally, the inclusion of a precision fit recoil lug is a significant advantage, providing a solid foundation for the action and mitigating stress during firing.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of any rifle stock is to securely house the action and barrel while providing a stable platform for accurate shooting, and this Boyds stock excels in that regard. The laminated hardwood construction provides a remarkably rigid and stable platform, minimizing flex under recoil. This translates directly into improved consistency and accuracy, especially during extended shooting sessions. Its performance in the field has been robust; the stock handles the inherent forces of firing a rifle with grace, showing no signs of compromise.

One of the stock’s greatest strengths is its inherent stability derived from the laminated hardwood. This material offers excellent resistance to the environmental factors that can affect traditional wood stocks. The precision fit recoil lug further enhances this stability, ensuring the action remains firmly seated. A minor area for potential improvement could be the barrel channel for those seeking a truly “free-floated” setup without further modification, as the “stubby” design implies it’s intended for factory contours and may still have slight contact with certain aftermarket barrels. However, for its intended purpose and factory barrel channel, it performs admirably.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock speaks to a thoughtful balance of form and function. The laminated hardwood provides a visually appealing and tactilely pleasing experience, with its rich color variations and smooth finish. The Prairie Hunter shape is a classic, offering a comfortable cheek weld and a natural point of shoulder, promoting a consistent shooting stance.

The build quality is immediately apparent upon handling. The precision fit recoil lug is well-integrated, and the inletting for the action is clean and crisp. The finish is smooth, though I would recommend an additional coat of sealant for enhanced protection, especially if the rifle will be exposed to harsh weather frequently. The ergonomics are generally excellent, providing a secure grip without being overly aggressive, and the stock feels substantial and well-balanced when mounted.

Durability & Maintenance

This stock is built to last. The laminated hardwood construction is inherently durable, resisting the common pitfalls of cracking, splitting, or warping that can plague less robust materials. Under typical use for a rifle of this caliber, I anticipate many years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward. A light sanding and a few coats of a quality wood finish can provide additional protection against moisture and wear. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth is usually sufficient to keep it looking its best. There are no obvious weak points or common failure modes I’ve encountered or observed in similar stocks.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock arrives as a complete unit for installation, primarily requiring the transfer of your existing barreled action. It comes finished, meaning it’s ready for installation out of the box, although personalizing the finish is always an option. The pre-drilled stubby barrel channel is designed to work with factory barrel profiles, simplifying the fitting process.

While this stock doesn’t come with a multitude of integrated accessories, its design opens up possibilities for customization. You can choose to add a butt pad for enhanced recoil absorption or customize the finish with stains and sealants to match your aesthetic preferences. Given its Winchester 670 long action compatibility, it’s also compatible with standard action screws and potentially other aftermarket bottom metal if one were to modify the stock for a floor plate, though that would deviate from its intended design.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock?

This stock is an ideal choice for owners of the Winchester Model 670 who are looking to upgrade from a factory stock and desire the classic aesthetics and inherent stability of a wooden stock. It is particularly well-suited for shooters who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and want a solid, reliable platform for their long action rifle, especially for general hunting or range use. Those who prioritize a robust build and are comfortable with minimal fitting for standard barrel profiles will find this an excellent option.

Individuals who require a stock for a heavy varmint or competition barrel that necessitates extensive free-floating might need to look elsewhere or be prepared for significant inletting work. Similarly, if you are committed to a rifle configuration that absolutely requires a floor plate and plan on using original Winchester bottom metal, this specific no floor plate model would not be suitable without modification. For most classic Model 670 owners, however, this stock is a superb choice that enhances both the look and feel of their rifle.

Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is, without question, a high-quality upgrade for the Winchester Model 670. Its construction from laminated hardwood provides a durable, stable, and aesthetically pleasing foundation that significantly elevates the shooting experience. The thoughtful inclusion of a precision fit recoil lug and a well-designed barrel channel demonstrates a commitment to performance and ease of installation for its intended application.

At its price point of $199.99, this stock offers exceptional value, delivering features and craftsmanship often found in much more expensive options. I would wholeheartedly recommend this stock to any owner of a Winchester Model 670 long action who is seeking to enhance their rifle’s ergonomics, accuracy, and classic appeal. It’s a sound investment that transforms a functional rifle into a true heirloom piece.