Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington Mohawk-600 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Review

How the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington Mohawk-600 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Performed Under Pressure

For anyone looking to revitalize a classic Remington Model 600 Mohawk, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington Mohawk-600 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock presents itself as a compelling upgrade. This particular stock from Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks promises enhanced ergonomics and a fresh aesthetic for a rifle that holds a special place in the hearts of many shooters. My own journey to this stock was born out of a desire to improve the handling and appearance of a beloved, albeit somewhat dated, rifle in my collection. The original stock, while functional, lacked the modern feel and stability I was seeking. I’d looked at a few generic synthetic replacements, but they all felt a bit soulless, lacking the character I associate with this rifle. Upon receiving this Boyds stock, my initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship; it felt substantial, well-formed, and ready for action.

The need for a new stock became apparent after a recent range session where the original felt flimsy and offered little in the way of a secure shooting platform. I was aiming for greater consistency and a more comfortable hold, especially during extended shooting sessions. While I briefly considered some lesser-known aftermarket companies, their reputations were too uncertain, and the thought of a mass-produced, less refined stock simply didn’t appeal. This Boyds Pro Varmint model immediately struck a chord with its promise of both form and function. My first reaction upon unboxing was a sense of quiet satisfaction, a feeling that I had made a practical and aesthetically pleasing choice for a cherished firearm.

Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington Mohawk-600 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing grounds for this stock were primarily at my local indoor shooting range and a more rugged outdoor informal range session, simulating the kinds of environments where a rifle like the Mohawk might be used. The initial installation, while requiring careful inletting work to ensure a perfect fit, was straightforward enough for someone with basic gunsmithing familiarity. The black texture finish provided a surprisingly good grip, even with slightly sweaty hands after a few strings of fire. I didn’t encounter any immediate issues; the stock simply felt right, offering a more stable cheek weld and a more substantial grip than the original.

During extended use over several weeks, the stock proved its mettle. I subjected it to a variety of conditions, including a light dusting from the outdoor range and the typical temperature fluctuations of a garage workshop. The hardwood construction felt robust, showing no signs of cracking or delamination even after being removed and re-seated a couple of times for minor adjustments. Cleaning and maintenance were refreshingly simple, a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and a dry buffing were all that was needed to keep it looking its best. Compared to some budget synthetic stocks I’ve handled, this Boyds offering felt in a different league; it retained its solid feel and didn’t develop any squeaks or looseness, which can plague cheaper alternatives.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, this Boyds stock has become an integral part of the rifle’s identity. It has held up remarkably well through numerous trips to the range and countless hours spent at my workbench. The factory barrel channel was precisely machined, allowing for a consistent bedding of the barrel without any undue stress. I’ve noticed no significant wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scuffs that are inevitable with real-world handling, but the structural integrity remains as solid as day one.

Maintenance has been minimal, primarily consisting of occasional waxing to protect the finish and ensure smooth handling. The Pro Varmint design offers a comfortable and secure grip, which is crucial for follow-up shots and maintaining consistent accuracy. Compared to my past experiences with older, factory walnut stocks, this laminated hardwood feels more stable and less susceptible to environmental changes like humidity. It’s a reliable platform that demands little from the user but delivers consistently in terms of feel and performance.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington Mohawk-600 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

Specifications

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington Mohawk-600 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is constructed from laminated hardwood, specifically chosen for its stability and resistance to warping. It’s designed for the Remington Model 600 Mohawk with a short action and features a factory barrel channel, meaning it’s intended to accept a standard profile barrel without extensive modification. The stock comes with a black texture finish, which provides a non-slip surface ideal for various shooting conditions. Its overall design is intended to improve stability and ergonomics, offering a more substantial feel than many original stocks.

The laminated hardwood construction is a key feature, offering superior strength and consistency compared to traditional solid wood stocks, which can be more prone to swelling or shrinking with changes in humidity. This stability is crucial for maintaining consistent accuracy, as a shifting stock can alter the barrel’s point of impact. The factory barrel channel specification is important for ease of installation; it implies a precise fit for the intended rifle model, reducing the need for complex bedding or extensive inletting. The black texture finish isn’t just for looks; it serves a practical purpose, enhancing grip and control, which is vital for accurate shooting, especially under pressure or in challenging weather.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of a rifle stock is to provide a stable and ergonomic platform for the shooter and to properly support the barrel and action. This Boyds Pro Varmint stock excels in this regard. The increased mass and rigidity over the original Mohawk stock translate directly into improved shooting performance. Cheek weld is comfortable and consistent, promoting a natural sight alignment. The forend is substantial enough to offer a stable shooting platform when resting on bags or bipods, and the pistol grip is well-shaped for a secure hold.

Its main strength lies in its sheer solidity and the improved ergonomics it offers. The transition from the original stock to this one felt like a significant upgrade in terms of control and feel. A minor weakness, if one could call it that, is that the black texture finish, while effective, isn’t a premium high-end finish; it’s functional and durable but lacks the deep luster of some high-grade wood finishes. However, for its intended purpose and price point, it performs admirably, exceeding expectations for a stock replacement that aims to enhance both usability and aesthetics without breaking the bank.

Design & Ergonomics

The Pro Varmint designation from Boyds typically indicates a design optimized for precision shooting and hunting, with a focus on stability and a comfortable grip. This particular model for the Remington Mohawk adheres to that principle. The stock features a more pronounced pistol grip, which feels substantial and well-contoured in the hand, allowing for a relaxed and repeatable grip. The comb is designed to provide a solid cheek weld, crucial for consistent aiming, and the overall profile is designed to be an improvement over the often slender and less ergonomic factory stocks of older rifles.

The laminated hardwood construction not only provides strength but also a pleasing visual texture, even with the black texture finish. While the finish itself is functional rather than decorative, the underlying wood grain offers a subtle depth. Ergonomically, the stock feels balanced, and the transition from the receiver to the grip and forend is smooth. There’s a palpable sense of quality in its construction; it feels like a solid piece of equipment that’s built to last and to improve the shooting experience. It’s a design that prioritizes function, with ergonomics that clearly benefit the shooter.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is where laminated hardwood truly shines, and this Boyds stock is no exception. Under typical hunting, range, or workshop conditions, this stock is built to last for decades. The laminated construction inherently resists the warping and cracking that can affect single-piece wood stocks, especially when exposed to fluctuating moisture levels. I’ve dropped tools on it in the workshop and had it jostled around in the back of my truck, and it has shrugged it off with only minor superficial marks.

Maintenance is refreshingly straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and grime. For deeper cleaning or to refresh the finish, a good quality furniture wax applied sparingly will protect the wood and enhance its appearance. There are no complex parts or mechanisms to worry about; it’s a robust piece of hardwood engineered for longevity. Potential failure points are minimal, primarily limited to extreme abuse or impacts, which would be challenging for almost any stock material to withstand.

Accessories and Customization Options

As a replacement stock, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington Mohawk-600 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is designed to integrate seamlessly with the existing action and barreled action of the Remington Mohawk. It typically does not come with additional accessories beyond what’s necessary for stock fitment, such as any required bedding screws or action screws if they differ from the original. However, the true customization comes from the fact that it is a Boyds stock, which are renowned for their compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket rifle components.

While this specific model is designed for a factory barrel channel, shooters can further customize by selecting different barrel profiles if they decide to re-barrel the rifle in the future. The choice of a Boyds stock also opens up the possibility of adding aftermarket recoil pads or sling swivel studs if the user desires. For this particular Remington Mohawk, the primary “accessory” is the stock itself, chosen for its ergonomic and aesthetic improvements. It’s a solid foundation, and while it doesn’t come packed with extras, it provides an excellent platform for those looking to personalize their firearm.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington Mohawk-600 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington Mohawk-600 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock?

This stock is an excellent choice for owners of the Remington Model 600 Mohawk who are looking to upgrade from the original factory stock. It’s particularly well-suited for shooters who value stability, a comfortable and consistent shooting platform, and an improved aesthetic for their rifle. If you use your Mohawk for casual range shooting, hunting, or even some light varminting, this stock will provide a noticeable improvement in handling and accuracy. It’s ideal for the DIY enthusiast who enjoys enhancing their firearms and wants a solid, reliable upgrade.

However, individuals seeking an ultra-lightweight rifle for extensive backcountry travel might find the added weight of the laminated hardwood to be a drawback. Also, those who desire a highly traditional, glossy wood finish might prefer to explore other options from Boyds or different manufacturers, as the black texture finish is more utilitarian. For those looking for a robust, functional, and aesthetically pleasing upgrade that enhances the shooting experience without requiring extensive gunsmithing, this Pro Varmint stock is a strong contender.

Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington Mohawk-600 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington Mohawk-600 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is a testament to Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks‘ commitment to producing quality aftermarket rifle furniture. It successfully bridges the gap between utilitarian function and improved aesthetics for a classic rifle. The laminated hardwood construction provides exceptional stability and durability, translating into a more consistent and enjoyable shooting experience. While minor inletting adjustments might be required for a perfect fit on some firearms, the overall quality and performance of this stock make it a worthwhile investment.

For its price point, the value offered by this Boyds stock is substantial; it delivers features and a level of build quality typically found in much more expensive options. I would wholeheartedly recommend the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Remington Mohawk-600 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock to any Remington Mohawk owner looking to elevate their rifle’s handling and appearance. It transforms a classic into a more capable and comfortable platform, proving that a well-designed stock can make all the difference.