Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Military Barrel channel Review

Using the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Military Barrel channel in the Real World

For years, the venerable M1917 Enfield rifle has served as a stalwart platform for shooters and collectors alike. However, for left-handed shooters aiming to leverage its inherent accuracy and robust action, the factory configuration presents a significant ergonomic hurdle. This is precisely where the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Military Barrel channel in Forest Camo steps in, offering a bespoke solution for a specific need. My own journey to this particular stock began with the acquisition of a well-maintained M1917 action, destined for a custom build. The challenge was clear: to transform it into a comfortable and functional rifle for a southpaw without resorting to complex, costly modifications. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, known for their quality wooden stocks, presented a compelling option. Initial impressions of the stock are positive, with a solid feel and a promising aesthetic, even before fitting. While I briefly considered fabricating a custom laminate stock, the practicality and cost-effectiveness of a pre-made, specialized option like this Boyds offering quickly won out. My immediate reaction was one of quiet satisfaction; a tangible solution to a persistent ergonomic problem was finally in hand.

Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Military Barrel channel to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing ground for this Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Military Barrel channel was my personal workshop, followed by a trip to a local outdoor range. The primary scenario involved fitting the stock to an M1917 action and then proceeding to function check and initial firing. The Forest Camo Finished aesthetic provided a visually distinct and rugged look. Performance was evaluated for basic fit and feel during handling, and later, during live fire, for its contribution to shooting comfort and control.

During the initial fitting, the stock felt substantial and well-formed, with no immediate signs of rough machining or structural issues. The military barrel channel accommodated the intended barrel without requiring excessive sanding, a common frustration with aftermarket stocks. The Left Hand configuration immediately addressed the primary ergonomic need, placing the bolt handle and safety in more natural positions for a left-handed shooter.

However, there was a slight learning curve. While the stock itself is designed for the Right Hand Action, the ejection port remains on the right side of the receiver. This means that when firing from the shoulder in a typical left-handed stance, the brass ejects towards the shooter’s face. This is an inherent characteristic of modifying a right-handed action for left-handed operation within a factory stock design, not a fault of the stock itself, but something a user must be aware of.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several range sessions and a period of regular handling and dry-firing, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Military Barrel channel has proven its worth. The wood has held up well, showing no significant signs of cracking or warping, even with exposure to varying temperatures and humidity levels common during outdoor shooting days. The finish, while attractive, has resisted minor scuffs and abrasions from being moved around in the truck and on the shooting bench.

Maintenance has been straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a soft cloth after each use keeps the finish clean, and a light application of wood conditioner every few months maintains its appearance and protects the hardwood. There are no complex parts to clean or oil, just the stock itself.

Compared to my previous experiences with less specialized aftermarket stocks for older military rifles, this Boyds unit stands out. While some budget options might require extensive inletting and finishing work, this stock offered a remarkably good fit out of the box, minimizing frustration and maximizing time spent on the range. It doesn’t have the sleekness of a high-end synthetic stock, but for its intended purpose – providing a comfortable, functional left-handed interface for an M1917 action – it performs admirably.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Military Barrel channel

Specifications

This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Military Barrel channel is crafted from laminated hardwood, offering both strength and a classic aesthetic. It is specifically designed for the Lee-Enfield Gun Type: Rifle, and the Gun Make: Lee-Enfield, Gun Model: Enfield M1917. A key feature is its Left Hand orientation, which is crucial for left-handed shooters seeking an ergonomic advantage. The stock also features a Military Barrel channel, designed to accommodate the specific dimensions of an M1917 barrel, and it comes Finished in a visually appealing Forest Camo pattern.

The laminated hardwood construction provides a dense and stable platform, important for consistent accuracy. The Left Hand configuration ensures that the bolt handle and safety are positioned for comfortable manipulation by a southpaw shooter. The Military Barrel channel means that it should accept most standard M1917 barrels with minimal fitting, which is a significant time-saver compared to generic stocks that often require extensive custom inletting. The finished Forest Camo pattern provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing exterior that also helps to break up the rifle’s silhouette.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Military Barrel channel is to provide a comfortable and functional stock for a left-handed shooter using an M1917 action. In this regard, it largely succeeds. The Left Hand bolt handle position is a game-changer, allowing for much quicker follow-up shots without needing to break cheek weld or reposition the dominant hand. The overall feel of the stock when shouldered is solid and secure, contributing to a stable shooting platform.

Its main strength lies in its ergonomic adaptation for left-handed shooters. The positioning of the bolt is intuitive and the safety, while still on the right side of the receiver, is more accessible than it would be on a standard right-handed stock when firing from the left shoulder. However, as noted, the ejection port remains on the right side of the M1917 action. This means that spent casings will still eject towards the shooter’s face and eyes if they are in a standard left-handed shooting position. This is an inherent limitation of using a right-handed action and receiver with a left-handed stock, and while not a fault of the stock itself, it’s a critical performance consideration for any left-handed shooter.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Boyds stock is straightforward and functional, clearly aiming to replicate the classic lines of original M1917 stocks while incorporating the left-handed manipulation. The laminated hardwood provides a pleasing tactile experience, feeling substantial and well-balanced in the hands. The Forest Camo finish is evenly applied and adds a touch of tactical flair without being overly flashy.

Ergonomically, the Left Hand bolt handle position is the standout feature. It significantly improves the shooting experience for left-handed individuals by allowing for natural bolt manipulation. The grip profile is comfortable for sustained handling, though it doesn’t feature aggressive checkering, which might be a slight drawback for those who prefer an extremely secure grip in adverse conditions. The forend is appropriately sized for a military barrel channel, offering a good grip area for off-hand shooting.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and the reputation of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, this particular stock is built for durability. The laminated hardwood is inherently strong and resistant to warping, making it suitable for regular use in various environments. The factory Finished surface provides a good layer of protection against moisture and minor impacts.

Maintenance is minimal. Occasional cleaning with a damp cloth and a light waxing or oiling every few months will keep the stock in excellent condition. There are no complex moving parts or sensitive materials that require specialized care. The potential failure points would likely be extreme abuse, such as dropping the rifle from a significant height onto a hard surface, which could lead to chipping or cracking. However, for its intended use as a replacement or upgrade for an M1917 rifle, it should prove to be a long-lasting component.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Military Barrel channel comes as a finished product, meaning it is ready for installation onto a compatible M1917 action. It does not typically come with additional accessories. However, being designed for the M1917 rifle, it is compatible with standard M1917 hardware such as the action itself, barrel, and any appropriate scope mounts or iron sights that would normally be fitted.

The primary customization lies in the selection of the rifle’s other components – the barrel, action, trigger, and sights. While the stock itself is a finished unit, its design anticipates the addition of these other firearm parts. If a user desires a different aesthetic or functional enhancement, the base of a compatible M1917 action allows for extensive customization of the firearm it houses, with this stock providing the left-handed interface.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Military Barrel channel

Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Military Barrel channel?

This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Military Barrel channel is ideal for left-handed shooters who own or are building an M1917 Enfield rifle and desire a more comfortable and intuitive shooting experience. It is perfect for those who appreciate the history and functionality of the M1917 action but find its standard right-handed configuration problematic. The stock is well-suited for hobbyists, collectors, and shooters who frequent the range and want to optimize their platform for their dominant hand.

Those who should probably skip this product are right-handed shooters, as it offers no benefit and would be ergonomically incorrect. Additionally, anyone looking for a truly ambidextrous solution or a stock that physically moves the ejection port would need to explore more complex custom gunsmithing options. For those using the stock, I would recommend ensuring you have appropriate safety glasses due to the right-side ejection port, and consider adding a cheek pad or custom grip wrap if a more secure hold is desired.

Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Military Barrel channel

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic P-17 Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Military Barrel channel is a well-executed and thoughtfully designed product that directly addresses a specific need in the M1917 Enfield rifle community. It provides a crucial ergonomic advantage for left-handed shooters, transforming the experience of operating the rifle without compromising the robust nature of the original design. The quality of the laminated hardwood and the attractive Forest Camo finish contribute to both its durability and aesthetic appeal.

Considering its price point of $199.99, the value proposition is strong, offering a specialized solution that would typically demand significantly more investment in custom gunsmithing. For left-handed M1917 enthusiasts, this stock is a highly recommended upgrade. It allows for natural bolt manipulation and a more comfortable shooting posture, making the venerable Enfield a more accessible and enjoyable firearm for a broader range of shooters. While the inherent right-side ejection remains a consideration, this stock makes operating the rifle itself a much more intuitive and pleasant affair for southpaws.