What Makes the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington 700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock Click?
For anyone looking to truly upgrade their Remington 700 Long Action, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington 700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock in Forest Camo presents itself as a compelling, value-driven option. As a gear specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’m always on the lookout for components that offer tangible improvements without astronomical cost. This particular stock, with its classic profile and robust construction, aims to bring a touch of heritage craftsmanship to a modern precision platform.
My own journey towards this stock was spurred by a project rifle that felt a bit… unfinished. The factory polymer offered functionality but lacked the tactile feedback and aesthetic appeal I craved for a rifle destined for extended range sessions and potential field use. While I considered a few other aftermarket synthetic stocks known for their modularity, the allure of solid hardwood and a proven design like Boyds’ Classic series kept drawing my attention. The promise of a more substantial feel and an improved shooting platform, all within a reasonable budget, made this a hard choice to ignore.
Upon unboxing, the initial impression was one of solid, well-executed craftsmanship. The weight felt substantial and reassuring, a far cry from the hollow feel of some plastic stocks. The Forest Camo finish was applied evenly, offering a visually appealing, non-reflective surface that hinted at durability. It wasn’t the hyper-tactical, skeletonized aesthetic some might seek, but rather a timeless, functional elegance that speaks to its intended purpose.
Real-World Testing: Putting **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington 700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock** to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds for this stock were my own workshop and the local outdoor shooting range. I meticulously bedded my Remington 700 Long Action receiver into the stock, a process that was straightforward thanks to the precise inletting. The stock felt significantly more rigid and substantial once the barreled action was fully secured, immediately suggesting an improvement in harmonic stability.
During my first range session, the difference was palpable. The increased mass and rigidity of the hardwood seemed to absorb recoil more effectively, leading to a more stable shooting platform and quicker follow-up shots. The Forest Camo finish proved to be surprisingly resistant to light scuffs from handling and environmental elements, and the overall ergonomics felt comfortable and secure, even after extended firing sequences.
One minor surprise was the precise fit of the hinged floor plate assembly; it integrated seamlessly without any hint of play or rattle, which is a common annoyance with lesser quality stocks. The bull barrel channel accommodated my heavy barrel perfectly, providing ample clearance and support. I encountered no significant quirks or issues during this initial phase, which, given my experience with many new components, is always a welcome sign.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, encompassing multiple range days, a few challenging weather conditions, and even some light hunting excursions, this Boyds stock continues to impress. It has endured dust, occasional light rain, and the general bumps and scrapes that come with transporting a rifle, and the Forest Camo finish shows only minor, character-building cosmetic wear. The hardwood itself has remained stable, with no discernible warping or shifting, even when subjected to moderate temperature fluctuations.
Cleaning and maintenance have been remarkably simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth followed by a light application of wood polish or furniture wax has kept it looking and feeling fresh. Compared to the factory polymer stock it replaced, its durability and resistance to cosmetic damage are significantly higher. While some premium synthetic stocks might offer lighter weight, the sheer robustness and reliable performance of this Boyds hardwood stock make it a standout in terms of long-term value and dependable service.
Breaking Down the Features of **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington 700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock**
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington 700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock is crafted for Remington Model 700 Long Action firearms, specifically designed to accommodate a bull barrel channel. It features a one-piece hinged floor plate inlet, ensuring a clean and secure integration with your rifle’s existing bottom metal. The construction utilizes high-quality hardwood, finished in a distinctive Forest Camo pattern that offers both aesthetic appeal and functional camouflage.
These specifications translate directly into tangible benefits for the shooter. The bull barrel channel provides essential clearance and support for larger diameter barrels, crucial for maintaining consistent accuracy by preventing barrel contact with the stock. The hinged floor plate design simplifies the process of loading and unloading, and its integrated nature contributes to the overall rigidity of the stock. The use of hardwood itself adds mass, which helps in absorbing recoil and reducing felt vibration.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of a rifle stock is to provide a stable platform for accurate shooting, and this Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington 700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock excels in this regard. The inherent stiffness of the hardwood, combined with the precise inletting, results in a significant improvement in rifle stability. I’ve noticed a distinct reduction in the erratic flyers that sometimes plague rifles with less rigid stocks, particularly during rapid fire strings or when shooting from improvised positions.
Its strengths lie in its uncompromising rigidity and the substantial feel it imparts to the rifle. This directly translates into improved shot-to-shot consistency and a more predictable recoil impulse. While it doesn’t offer the adjustability found in some high-end chassis systems, its fixed design is exceptionally well-suited for precision shooting where a consistent interface with the shooter is paramount. It meets and, in many practical aspects, exceeds expectations for a stock in its price bracket, delivering performance that rivals more expensive options.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this stock is classic and functional, prioritizing ergonomics and a solid feel. The hardwood construction feels robust and well-finished, with a smooth, non-abrasive texture that is comfortable to handle in various conditions. The Forest Camo finish is attractive and discreet, blending well into natural environments without being overly flashy.
Ergonomically, the stock offers a comfortable grip area and a well-formed comb that promotes a natural sight picture. The bull barrel channel is generous, accommodating a variety of heavy barrel profiles without requiring extensive inletting work. The inclusion of a one-piece hinged floor plate is a thoughtful design choice, ensuring a clean look and secure fit for the magazine well. There’s a slight learning curve if you’re accustomed to lighter synthetic stocks, but the increased weight is a trade-off for its exceptional stability.
Durability & Maintenance
In terms of durability, this Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington 700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock is built to last. The hardwood is dense and resistant to impacts, and the finish is well-applied. Under normal use, I anticipate this stock will serve for many years without significant degradation.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple; a light cleaning and occasional waxing or oiling are all that is needed to keep it in top condition. There are no complex mechanisms to worry about, and the hinged floor plate is robust and functions smoothly. The primary maintenance concern would be avoiding prolonged exposure to extreme moisture or direct, intense heat, which could potentially affect any hardwood product over time. However, for typical field and range use, its resilience is more than adequate.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular model comes as a complete stock assembly, ready to accept your Remington 700 Long Action barreled action. It features the one-piece hinged floor plate already integrated, which is a key functional component. While Boyds offers a variety of color finishes for this stock model, the specific Forest Camo is a standout option for those seeking effective camouflage.
There are no specific “accessories” included beyond the stock itself, as it’s designed to be a direct replacement for your existing stock and bottom metal. However, its precision inletting means it will integrate seamlessly with standard Remington 700 Long Action bottom metal assemblies. For those who desire further customization, the hardwood construction allows for potential modification by skilled gunsmiths, though for most users, its out-of-the-box configuration is perfectly optimized for performance.
Pros and Cons of **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington 700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock**
Pros
- Exceptional Rigidity and Stability: The hardwood construction provides a rock-solid platform, significantly reducing flex and enhancing shot consistency.
- Substantial Recoil Mitigation: The added mass of the hardwood stock helps to absorb recoil, leading to a more comfortable shooting experience.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The classic design and Forest Camo finish offer a timeless and attractive look that elevates the rifle’s appearance.
- Precise Inletting: The bull barrel channel and hinged floor plate inletting are expertly done, ensuring a perfect fit with minimal fitting required.
- Excellent Value for Money: Offers premium features and performance at a price point that is highly competitive.
Cons
- Increased Weight: Compared to lightweight synthetic stocks, the hardwood construction adds noticeable weight, which may be a consideration for hunters prioritizing mobility.
- Limited Adjustability: As a fixed stock design, it lacks the adjustable features found in some higher-end chassis systems.
- Wood Care Considerations: While durable, hardwood can be susceptible to extreme environmental changes if not properly maintained.
Who Should Buy **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington 700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock**?
This stock is an ideal choice for precision shooters, hunters, and rifle enthusiasts who own a Remington 700 Long Action and are looking for a significant upgrade in terms of stability, recoil management, and aesthetics. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate the classic look and feel of hardwood and prioritize a rigid, reliable platform for their rifle. If your rifle is built around a bull barrel and you demand consistency, this stock will deliver.
Conversely, individuals seeking the absolute lightest rifle for extensive backcountry trekking might find the added weight a drawback. Those who require highly specialized, adjustable stock features for a variety of shooting disciplines might be better served by more modular, albeit more expensive, chassis systems. For anyone building a dedicated benchrest rifle, a varmint rig, or a general-purpose hunting rifle where weight isn’t the primary concern, this Boyds stock is a phenomenal choice.
A must-have accessory that complements this stock perfectly is a quality set of action screws and a torque wrench for proper bedding and consistent tensioning, ensuring you maximize the stock’s inherent stability. Additionally, regular application of a good wood conditioner or furniture polish will help maintain the Forest Camo finish and protect the hardwood for years to come.
Conclusion on **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington 700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock**
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Remington 700 LA Sendero Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock in Forest Camo is, without a doubt, a superb upgrade for any Remington 700 Long Action owner. It strikes an exceptional balance between traditional craftsmanship, modern performance enhancements, and an accessible price point. The rigidity, recoil absorption, and aesthetic appeal it provides are significant improvements over most factory offerings and even many mid-tier aftermarket stocks.
For the price of $177.99, you are getting a substantial piece of hardware that delivers tangible benefits in accuracy and shootability. It’s a testament to Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks‘ commitment to producing high-quality, functional firearm components. I wholeheartedly recommend this stock to anyone looking to enhance their Remington 700, especially those with bull barrels who desire a classic look with modern performance. It’s not just a stock; it’s an investment in a more enjoyable and effective shooting experience.