Is the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Benjamin Discover Bp9M22 Single Shot Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock All Talk?
For years, I’ve seen aftermarket gun stocks that promise the moon but deliver little more than a slightly different feel. My Crosman Benjamin Discovery .22 has been a faithful companion for small pest control and plinking, but I always felt the factory stock was a bit… utilitarian. It lacked a certain refinement that I craved for better stability and a more natural shooting posture, especially when I was trying to wring the most accuracy out of it at longer distances. This led me to seek out an upgrade, something that could enhance the platform’s inherent capabilities. After some deliberation, I landed on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Benjamin Discover Bp9M22 Single Shot Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship; the hardwood felt substantial, and the thumbhole design hinted at improved ergonomics. I briefly considered a generic synthetic stock, but the allure of natural wood and a dedicated, comfortable design won out. My first thought was a quiet sense of optimism, a feeling that this upgrade might actually deliver tangible improvements.
Real-World Testing: Putting the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Benjamin Discover Bp9M22 Single Shot Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds were my backyard range and a local wildlife management area where permitted. I installed the stock on a crisp autumn morning, and the fit was snug, requiring minimal fuss. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Benjamin Discover Bp9M22 Single Shot Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock immediately offered a more substantial feel than the original plastic. My first shots were taken from a bench rest, and the increased stability provided by the thumbhole and the more aggressive grip textures was palpable. I noted a distinct improvement in my ability to maintain a consistent sight picture.
Over the course of several range sessions and a few days spent afield, the stock proved its mettle. It endured light dust exposure and a brief shower without any adverse effects, the wood repelling moisture adequately with its finish. The thumbhole design, once I adjusted my grip slightly, felt remarkably intuitive, promoting a natural, relaxed posture for my shooting hand. My only minor surprise was the slight increase in weight, which, while contributing to stability, did make carrying the rifle for extended periods a touch more noticeable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After nearly six months of consistent use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Benjamin Discover Bp9M22 Single Shot Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock has held up exceptionally well. I’ve logged dozens of hours at the range and a fair bit of time hunting small game with it, and there are no signs of cracking, warping, or significant wear on the wood finish. The grip areas remain firm, and the texture hasn’t smoothed out noticeably, even with frequent handling.
Cleaning and maintenance have been straightforward; a damp cloth and occasional wood polish are all that’s needed to keep it looking pristine. Compared to the flimsy plastic stock it replaced, this hardwood option feels like it’s built for the long haul. It certainly outperforms the budget synthetic stocks I’ve encountered on other rimfire platforms, offering a more refined and durable solution.
Breaking Down the Features of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Benjamin Discover Bp9M22 Single Shot Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Benjamin Discover Bp9M22 Single Shot Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is crafted from select hardwood, ensuring a robust and aesthetically pleasing foundation for your firearm. It features a dedicated thumbhole design, which promotes a more ergonomic and stable grip, crucial for accurate shooting. The full-length bedding block is a significant upgrade, offering enhanced support and alignment for the rifle’s action, thereby contributing to improved shot consistency. This stock is specifically designed for the Crosman Benjamin Discovery rifle, ensuring a precise fit for the single-shot, short-action factory barrel channel.
The hardwood construction provides a noticeable weight advantage over many plastic stocks, which translates to better firearm balance and reduced felt recoil. The thumbhole aspect is designed to allow for a more relaxed and natural finger placement on the trigger, minimizing unwanted movement. The factory barrel channel specification means it’s designed to accommodate the original barrel without modification, simplifying the installation process. Compared to more generic, one-size-fits-all stocks, this dedicated design ensures optimal integration with the Benjamin Discovery platform.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary role, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Benjamin Discover Bp9M22 Single Shot Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock performs admirably, significantly enhancing the shooting experience. The improved stability from the thumbhole and bedding block translates directly into more consistent groups downrange. My personal accuracy has seen a measurable improvement, particularly when shooting from field positions.
The primary strength lies in its ability to provide a solid, ergonomic platform that complements the Benjamin Discovery’s capabilities. It effectively minimizes torque and flex that can plague lesser stocks. A minor weakness, if one could call it that, is the slight learning curve for those unaccustomed to a thumbhole design, requiring a small adjustment in hand placement. However, it readily meets and often exceeds expectations for a stock upgrade in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this stock is immediately apparent; the hardwood is smooth to the touch, with a rich grain that feels substantial and premium. The finish is well-applied, providing a durable exterior that also feels good in the hand. The thumbhole design is generously proportioned, allowing ample space for various hand sizes without feeling cramped.
Ergonomically, it’s a significant step up from a standard factory stock. The thumbhole naturally guides your hand into a consistent shooting grip, and the added material around the forend provides a comfortable purchase. The cheek weld is also improved, offering a more stable point of contact for your face. Practical design details, like the textured grip surfaces and the perfectly inletted action channel, all contribute to a user-friendly and effective interface.
Durability & Maintenance
Under normal conditions for a firearm stock, this hardwood model is built to last. I anticipate many years of reliable service from it, given its solid construction and the inherent durability of quality hardwood. It’s designed to withstand the rigors of field use and repeated trips to the range.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down after use removes any dust or grime, and periodic application of a suitable wood polish will keep the finish looking its best and protect the wood. There are no complex parts to clean or maintain, making upkeep a non-issue. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points, though one should always be mindful of impacts against hard surfaces that could mar the finish or, in extreme cases, cause damage to any wooden item.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Benjamin Discover Bp9M22 Single Shot Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock comes as a standalone component, meaning it doesn’t typically include additional accessories like swivels or rails unless specified in a particular package. However, its strength lies in its compatibility with the Benjamin Discovery’s standard mounting points for slings or bipods. If you wish to add a bipod, you would typically need to purchase and install a compatible swivel stud separately, which is a common modification for most rifle stocks.
The stock itself is designed to fit the factory barrel channel and action, meaning it’s not directly customizable in terms of accommodating different barrel profiles without significant (and generally ill-advised) modification. However, the inherent nature of hardwood allows for custom finishing if one were so inclined, though the factory finish is quite appealing. For those seeking to enhance their setup, I’d recommend looking into a good quality sling and possibly a sturdy bipod that mounts to the forend stud.
Pros and Cons of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Benjamin Discover Bp9M22 Single Shot Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Pros
- Significantly improved ergonomics with a comfortable thumbhole design for enhanced grip and trigger control.
- Superior stability and accuracy due to the full-length bedding block and rigid hardwood construction.
- Aesthetically pleasing with a natural hardwood finish that elevates the rifle’s appearance.
- Durable and robust build quality designed to withstand regular use in various environments.
- Direct fit for the Crosman Benjamin Discovery, ensuring a hassle-free installation.
Cons
- Slightly increased weight compared to the original plastic stock, which might be a consideration for extreme ultralight setups.
- Requires separate purchase of mounting hardware like sling studs or bipods if not already present on the rifle.
- Limited customization for barrel profiles or action types beyond the intended factory fit.
Who Should Buy the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Benjamin Discover Bp9M22 Single Shot Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock?
This stock is an excellent choice for owners of the Crosman Benjamin Discovery who are looking to elevate their shooting experience. It’s particularly well-suited for those who engage in precision rimfire shooting, pest control, or any activity where accuracy and a stable shooting platform are paramount. If you appreciate the tactile feel and natural beauty of hardwood over synthetic materials, this option will likely appeal to you.
Conversely, individuals seeking an ultra-lightweight rifle for extended high-mileage carrying, or those who prefer the modularity of synthetic stocks for extensive accessory mounting, might want to consider other options. It’s also not for someone expecting a tool-free modification for radically different barrel configurations. For those who want to enhance their Benjamin Discovery, a good quality sling and potentially a bipod that can be mounted via a stud would be excellent complementary additions.
Conclusion on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Benjamin Discover Bp9M22 Single Shot Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Varmint Thumbhole Benjamin Discover Bp9M22 Single Shot Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is, without question, a worthwhile upgrade for Benjamin Discovery owners. It successfully transforms a capable rifle into a more refined and accurate shooting instrument, thanks to its thoughtful ergonomic design and solid hardwood construction. The price point of $199.99 feels justified for the significant improvements in stability, accuracy, and aesthetics it offers.
I would confidently recommend this stock to anyone looking to enhance their Benjamin Discovery. It strikes an excellent balance between form and function, providing a tangible performance boost without requiring advanced technical skills to install. If you’re aiming for better accuracy and a more comfortable hold on your Discovery, this hardwood stock is a smart investment.