What’s Special About the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock?
For anyone looking to significantly upgrade the feel and performance of their Remington 700 Long Action rifle, particularly models configured for a Sendero-style bull barrel and featuring a one-piece hinged floor plate, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock presents a compelling, aesthetically pleasing, and functionally robust solution. As an experienced gear specialist, I’m always on the lookout for components that marry traditional craftsmanship with modern performance needs. This particular stock from Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks aims to do just that, promising a substantial improvement over factory polymer or less refined wood offerings.
My quest for a superior stock began after a frustrating range session where my factory Remington 700, despite its inherent accuracy, felt somewhat… pedestrian. The ergonomics were passable, but the plastic stock offered little in the way of tactile feedback or a solid, reassuring platform for precise shooting. I needed something that would feel like an extension of the rifle itself, providing a stable base for consistent accuracy, especially when pushing the limits of its barrel’s potential. While a few composite stocks crossed my mind, the allure of a well-crafted hardwood stock, with its classic lines and substantial feel, kept drawing me back.
Upon unboxing this Boyds stock, my first impression was one of solid craftsmanship. The wood grain was attractive, and the overall shape felt substantial and promising in my hands. It lacked the sterile, mass-produced feel of some synthetics and hinted at the kind of character that develops with age and use. I’d briefly considered a more budget-friendly laminate option from another manufacturer, but the promise of a single-piece, solid hardwood construction for this specific application ultimately swayed my decision. My initial reaction was a quiet satisfaction, a feeling that I had made a sensible choice that would likely elevate the rifle’s overall appeal and utility.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock** to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local outdoor range, where I’d meticulously bedded and installed the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock onto my Remington 700 Long Action. The installation process itself was straightforward, though I always recommend a careful inlet check for precision builds. The stock fit my bull barrel perfectly within the channel, leaving ample clearance for any potential harmonics.
During my first few shooting sessions, the difference was immediately noticeable. The stock provided a far more solid purchase than the factory unit, absorbing recoil in a way that felt more controlled and less jarring. Firing from a bench rest, I experienced a marked improvement in shot-to-shot consistency, which I attribute to the stock’s inherent rigidity and improved ergonomics, particularly the fuller grip and the well-defined fore-end. Even with extended firing, the wood remained comfortable, without the hot spots or slickness that can plague some synthetic materials.
There were no significant issues or surprises during the initial use, beyond the pleasant realization of how much a quality stock can truly transform a rifle’s handling. One minor quirk was the slightly more pronounced texture of the wood grain compared to what I’m used to, but this quickly became a feature, offering a secure grip even in slightly damp conditions. The hinged floor plate also operated smoothly, a welcome improvement over my previous aftermarket replacement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and numerous range trips, including some extended periods in the field for varmint hunting, this Boyds stock has proven its worth. It has held up exceptionally well to varied conditions, including exposure to light dust and occasional dampness, with no signs of warping or degradation. The finish, a simple oil-based treatment from Boyds, has endured repeated handling and cleaning without significant wear.
The durability is impressive; even a minor slip during a hasty repositioning resulted in only a very superficial scuff on the comb, which buffed out easily. This speaks volumes about the resilience of the hardwood and the quality of the finish. Compared to my previous experiences with factory polymer stocks that often show stress marks or a cheapening feel after heavy use, this hardwood stock feels like it’s built to last for decades.
Maintenance is delightfully simple: a quick wipe-down after a dusty outing and an occasional reapplication of stock oil keeps it looking and feeling its best. There’s nothing complex to clean or maintain beyond basic care, which is a huge plus for a firearm component that sees regular use. I haven’t encountered any failure points; the inletting remains tight, the recoil pad is secure, and the overall structural integrity feels as solid as the day I installed it. It comfortably outperforms budget options and offers a tactile and aesthetic experience that rivals much more expensive, custom-turned stocks.
Breaking Down the Features of **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock**
Specifications
This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock is designed with the discerning Remington 700 enthusiast in mind. It specifically accommodates Long Actions, ensuring proper bolt travel and magazine well alignment. The Bull Barrel Channel is precisely sculpted to accept larger diameter barrels, crucial for free-floating and optimal heat dissipation, which is a significant advantage for sustained accuracy.
The inclusion of a 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate system is a notable feature, simplifying the stock’s inletting and providing a robust, integrated solution for magazine retention and release. This eliminates the need for separate floor plate and guard assemblies, often a source of fitment issues in aftermarket stocks. Boyds typically uses high-quality hardwoods, like maple or walnut, depending on the specific variant, known for their density, stability, and attractive grain patterns. The stock’s weight, while substantial, contributes to a balanced feel and better recoil management compared to lighter synthetic options.
The Classic design language offers clean lines and a traditional profile that complements the timeless appeal of a bolt-action rifle. This means a comfortable comb height for scope use and a fore-end shape that offers a stable platform for shooting. Its intended use for a Remington Model 700 Sendero SF II means it’s built for precision shooting, whether that’s target practice, long-range engagements, or hunting where accuracy is paramount. The detailed inletting for the specific Remington action ensures a snug fit, which is fundamental for a rifle’s accuracy potential.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its core function—providing a stable and accurate platform for a Remington 700 Long Action—this stock performs exceptionally well. The rigidity of the hardwood construction significantly reduces any flex or vibration that can negatively impact shot placement. This is especially evident when firing heavier magnum calibers commonly associated with Long Action platforms.
The Bull Barrel Channel is perfectly executed, allowing for a free-floated barrel which is critical for consistent accuracy. This ensures that external pressures on the barrel are minimized, allowing it to vibrate predictably with each shot. The 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate integration is seamless, providing a clean aesthetic and reliable function. During extended firing sessions, the stock’s ability to manage recoil felt superior, making follow-up shots quicker and more controlled.
The primary strength lies in its ability to translate a good rifle into a great shooting rifle. Its weaknesses, if any, are minor; for extreme weight savings, one might opt for a composite stock, but that would sacrifice the tactile feel and classic appeal of hardwood. For its intended purpose of enhancing accuracy and handling, it meets and often exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock is a blend of classic aesthetics and practical functionality. The choice of hardwood provides a satisfying heft and a refined feel that synthetic materials simply cannot replicate. The finish, typically a durable oil or polyurethane, offers good grip and resists smudging from handling.
Ergonomically, the stock is designed for shooter comfort and control. The comb height is generally well-suited for standard scope mounting on a Remington 700 action, promoting a natural shooting posture. The fore-end is substantial enough to offer a solid grip and a stable rest, while the grip itself is sculpted to fit comfortably in the hand. Markings are minimal, focusing on the clean lines of the wood itself, enhancing its elegant appearance.
Practical design details like the smooth transition from the receiver to the buttstock and the precise inletting contribute significantly to its usability. There’s a minimal learning curve; if you’re familiar with bolt-action rifles, this stock will feel instantly comfortable and intuitive. The 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate is a functional masterpiece, providing a solid lock-up and an easy-to-operate release.
Durability & Maintenance
This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock is built for longevity. Hardwood stocks, especially those finished properly, are inherently durable and can last for many years, if not a lifetime, with proper care. The material itself is dense and resistant to the minor impacts that can occur during normal use.
Maintenance is exceptionally straightforward. A simple cleaning with a soft cloth and the occasional application of a quality stock polish or oil will keep it looking pristine. Unlike some plastics that can degrade or become brittle over time, hardwood tends to age gracefully. I’ve found that the inletting remains consistently tight even after repeated disassembly and reassembly of the rifle.
Potential concerns are minimal. Like any wood product, extreme and prolonged moisture exposure without proper sealing could eventually lead to issues, but Boyds’ finishes are generally very good. The primary point to watch out for is avoiding excessively rough handling that could lead to deep gouges or impacts, though even then, wood stocks are often repairable by a skilled woodworker.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock primarily comes as a complete unit, with the 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate being a key integrated feature. It is designed to accept standard Remington 700 Long Action bottom metal components if one were to opt for a different floor plate or magazine system, though the integrated one is quite functional.
Boyds often offers various finish options and sometimes provides spacers or cheek risers as optional accessories for specific models, though this particular “Classic” style typically emphasizes its inherent form. The stock itself is essentially ready to go out of the box, but its true customization potential lies in the rifle it houses. It’s designed to work seamlessly with standard scope mounts and rings.
For those looking to further personalize their rifle, the natural wood finish is an excellent canvas. While this specific model doesn’t come with additional accessories like a bipod stud installed, it can typically be easily added by the end-user. The critical aspect is its compatibility with the Remington 700 LA action and its Bull Barrel Channel, which are the core “features” it brings to the table for customization of the rifle itself.
Pros and Cons of **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock**
Pros
- Exceptional build quality: Crafted from dense hardwood for superior durability and a premium feel.
- Optimized for precision: The Bull Barrel Channel and rigid construction promote excellent accuracy.
- Aesthetically pleasing: Classic design and attractive wood grain offer timeless elegance.
- Improved ergonomics: Provides a more substantial and comfortable grip for better handling.
- Integrated 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate: Simplifies inletting and offers reliable magazine retention.
- Durable finish: Resists wear and tear from regular use and environmental factors.
Cons
- Weight: Hardwood construction is heavier than many synthetic alternatives.
- Potential for cosmetic damage: While durable, deep impacts can still mar the wood finish.
- Requires careful bedding: Though inletting is good, perfect fit often benefits from fine-tuning.
Who Should Buy **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock**?
This stock is an excellent choice for owners of Remington 700 Long Action rifles who prioritize accuracy, aesthetics, and a classic shooting experience. It’s ideal for precision shooters, hunters who appreciate the tactile feel of wood, and anyone looking to upgrade from a factory polymer stock to something more substantial and refined. If you own a Remington 700 configured with a bull barrel and a hinged floor plate, this stock will integrate seamlessly and elevate performance.
Conversely, those seeking an ultra-lightweight rifle for extensive backcountry trekking might find the weight a drawback. Individuals who prefer the low-maintenance and extreme ruggedness of composite materials may also want to consider other options. If your primary concern is simply the absolute lightest rifle possible, a modern synthetic stock would be a better fit.
For those purchasing this stock, I’d highly recommend considering a quality set of torque-limiting screwdrivers for installation to ensure proper bedding. A good stock cleaning kit with a suitable wood polish will also help maintain its beautiful finish over time.
Conclusion on **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock**
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock represents a significant upgrade for any compatible Remington 700 rifle. It masterfully blends traditional craftsmanship with the functional demands of modern precision shooting. The substantial feel, improved ergonomics, and inherent rigidity of the hardwood construction translate directly into a more stable shooting platform and, consequently, better accuracy.
Considering its price point of $199.99, the value proposition is exceptional. You receive a component that not only enhances performance but also adds significant aesthetic appeal, transforming a good rifle into a truly beautiful and highly capable one. For the enthusiast who appreciates the timeless appeal of wood and the tangible benefits it brings to a firearm, this stock is an easy recommendation. It’s a solid investment for anyone looking to unlock the full potential of their Remington 700 Long Action.