One Week with the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 722 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
The quest for the perfect firearm stock is often a journey driven by a blend of performance enhancement and aesthetic refinement. For those who own or cherish a Remington 722 short action rifle, finding a stock that balances modern ergonomics with the classic lines of a beloved platform can be a significant undertaking. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 722 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock aims to be that perfect synthesis. Constructed from premium laminated hardwoods, this stock promises precision fit and enhanced handling for a rifle that has earned its place in many collections.
My own journey to this particular stock began with a desire to revitalize an aging but accurate Remington 722. The original factory stock, while functional, lacked the ergonomic support needed for extended shooting sessions, and frankly, it showed its age. I needed something that would not only improve my shooting posture but also breathe new life into the rifle’s appearance. After considering a few synthetic options and more basic wood replacements, the distinctive thumbhole design and Boyds’ reputation for quality laminated wood drew me in. My initial impression upon receiving the stock was one of solid craftsmanship; the weight felt substantial yet balanced, and the wood grain was appealing.
Real-World Testing: Putting the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 722 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place on my personal range, set up for precision shooting at distances up to 200 yards. I mounted the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 722 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock to my Remington 722 action, ensuring a snug fit. The installation was straightforward, requiring only basic gunsmithing tools and careful alignment.
The ergonomics were immediately noticeable; the thumbhole design naturally guided my hand into a consistent grip, and the wider forend provided a stable platform when resting on sandbags. Accuracy remained consistent with my baseline expectations for the rifle, but the shooter comfort was significantly improved. I experienced no issues with the stock shifting or flexing during firing sequences, even after a dozen rapid shots during a field-expedient drill.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including a full weekend at a local rifle match and various range sessions, the stock has held up exceptionally well. It has endured casual transport in my vehicle and repeated handling without any significant scratches or cosmetic blemishes, which speaks to the durability of the Dark Earth-Tuff finish.
The laminated hardwood construction has shown no signs of swelling or cracking, even when exposed to a moderate amount of humidity during an unexpected afternoon shower. Cleaning is a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth and a quick polish, making routine maintenance effortless. Compared to previous composite or less robust wooden stocks I’ve used, this Boyds offering feels substantially more robust and resistant to the rigors of consistent use.
Breaking Down the Features of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 722 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 722 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is crafted from top-grade laminated hardwoods. This material choice is crucial for stability, resisting warping and ensuring consistent accuracy over time. The stock features a precision fitting system that utilizes solid steel screws, a detail that contributes significantly to its solid feel and secure mounting to the rifle’s action.
It is designed specifically for the Remington 722 short action and includes a factory barrel channel, meaning it’s pre-machined to accept barrels of a standard contour without requiring extensive inletting. A notable feature is the CNC-machined aluminum floor plate, integrated for a snug fit and to prevent accidental damage to the action during firing. The Dark Earth-Tuff finish not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also provides a degree of protection against the elements.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of any rifle stock is to provide a stable and ergonomic platform for accurate shooting, and this Boyds stock excels in that regard. The thumbhole design encourages a consistent and repeatable hand position, which translates directly to improved shot placement. The wider forend offers a more stable rest when shooting off-hand or from improvised positions, a critical advantage for any shooter looking to maximize accuracy.
The stock’s inherent rigidity, due to its laminated construction, prevents the undue flex that can sometimes plague synthetic or less well-built wooden stocks. This rigidity is paramount for maintaining zero and ensuring consistent projectile impact. While it doesn’t magically turn a rifle into a competition-grade precision instrument on its own, it provides the foundational stability that allows the rifle’s inherent accuracy to be fully realized by the shooter.
Design & Ergonomics
The Featherweight Thumbhole design is the standout ergonomic feature of this stock. The thumbhole allows for a natural, high-firm grip that many shooters find more comfortable and conducive to accuracy than a traditional grip. This configuration also aids in controlling recoil by promoting a more consistent shoulder-to-stock weld.
The laminated hardwood itself feels warm and substantial in the hand, a stark contrast to the often sterile feel of synthetic materials. The Dark Earth-Tuff finish provides a pleasant, non-slip texture that enhances grip, even with gloved hands or in damp conditions. The stock’s lines are classical yet functional, blending seamlessly with the timeless appeal of the Remington 722 action.
Durability & Maintenance
Laminated hardwood is inherently more durable and stable than solid wood, resisting the environmental changes that can cause traditional stocks to warp or crack. The solid steel screws and the CNC-machined aluminum floor plate further contribute to the stock’s robust construction, ensuring that it can withstand the stresses of repeated firing.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A soft cloth dampened with water and a mild soap is usually sufficient for general cleaning. For deeper cleaning or to refresh the finish, a quality wood polish designed for furniture or gunstocks can be used. I have experienced no issues with finish degradation or material breakdown during my testing period.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular model is designed as a direct replacement for the factory stock, featuring a factory barrel channel. This means it typically accepts standard Remington 722 barrels without requiring further bedding or modification by the end-user. While Boyds offers some customization options on their website, such as different finishes or specialized inletting for custom barrels, this specific model is built for the factory configuration.
No additional accessories are typically included with the stock itself, as it is a component intended to replace an existing part of the firearm. However, its compatibility with the Remington 722 action means it will work with most standard bottom metal and action screws designed for that platform.
Pros and Cons of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 722 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Pros
- Superior Ergonomics: The thumbhole design provides a very comfortable and stable grip, enhancing shooting control.
- Exceptional Stability: Laminated hardwood construction offers superior resistance to warping and environmental changes compared to traditional wood or synthetics.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The wood grain and the Dark Earth-Tuff finish give the rifle a classic, refined look.
- Precise Fitment: Designed for the Remington 722 short action with a factory barrel channel, ensuring good inletting with minimal fitting required.
- Enhanced Durability: Solid steel screws and robust laminated wood contribute to a long-lasting and reliable stock.
Cons
- Weight: While marketed as “Featherweight,” laminated stocks can be heavier than some synthetic alternatives.
- Barrell Channel Limitations: The factory barrel channel may not accommodate heavier or custom barrel profiles without modification.
- Price Point: For some budget-conscious buyers, the cost may be higher than basic replacement stocks.
Who Should Buy the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 722 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock?
This stock is an excellent choice for owners of the Remington 722 short action who are looking to upgrade their rifle’s ergonomics and aesthetics significantly. It is ideal for shooters who prioritize comfort and consistency during extended range sessions or for those who appreciate the traditional beauty of a well-crafted wooden stock. The Featherweight Thumbhole configuration makes it particularly well-suited for individuals seeking a more natural and supportive grip to improve their shooting posture.
Those who should consider alternatives might be hunters who need the absolute lightest rifle possible or individuals who have installed a heavy, custom barrel that will not fit the factory barrel channel. If your primary concern is the lowest possible cost for a functional stock, other options might be more suitable, though they will likely sacrifice the premium materials and ergonomic advantages offered here. Essential complementary items would be the appropriate action screws and bottom metal for your specific Remington 722 configuration.
Conclusion on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 722 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Remington 722 Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock stands as a testament to Boyds’ commitment to quality and functional design. It successfully bridges the gap between classic firearm aesthetics and modern ergonomic demands, offering a substantial upgrade for the Remington 722 platform. The stability, comfort, and visual appeal it brings are immediately apparent and translate into a more enjoyable and accurate shooting experience.
Considering its build quality, the precision with which it’s manufactured, and the palpable improvement in handling, the $199.99 price point feels justified for the value delivered. For owners of the Remington 722 who are looking to elevate their rifle’s performance and appearance, I would readily recommend this stock. It’s not just a replacement part; it’s an investment in enhancing a cherished firearm.