Is the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock All Talk?
My old Winchester Model 670A’s stock had developed a serious case of warp, rendering it unreliable and frankly, an eyesore. This rifle, a faithful companion for years through various workshop projects and dusty field trips, deserved better than a warped stock. Replacing it wasn’t just about aesthetics; it was about restoring functionality and ensuring the rifle could still perform as it should. After a bit of searching, I landed on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock.
The initial impression upon unboxing this replacement stock was one of solid craftsmanship. It felt substantial, the wood grain appealing, and the matte black finish promised a practical, non-glare surface. I had considered some cheaper synthetic alternatives, but the idea of a classic hardwood stock appealed to the rifle’s heritage and my preference for traditional materials. My immediate feeling was one of cautious optimism, hoping this would indeed be the fix my rifle needed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial “testing” was really about fitting and bringing the Winchester 670A back to life. I installed it on my workbench, in my workshop environment, which is a familiar setting for tinkering with tools and equipment. The process of bedding the action and inletting required some minor adjustments, which is fairly typical for aftermarket parts. This involved careful filing and sanding to ensure a snug, wobble-free fit.
The finished product looked and felt significantly better than the warped original. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock felt sturdy and well-balanced. There were no immediate surprises, just the quiet satisfaction of a project taking shape. The matte finish of the stock did indeed prevent any distracting reflections under my workshop lights.
Extended Use & Reliability
After the initial fitting, the rifle and its new stock have seen consistent use in my workshop and occasional trips to the range for function checks. It has held up remarkably well through repeated handling and the general dust and grime that are part of any workshop environment. There are no visible cracks, and the wood remains solid without any signs of splitting or delamination.
Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth followed by a dry one is usually sufficient. For deeper cleaning, a mild wood cleaner and a soft brush have done the trick. Compared to some other wooden stocks I’ve worked with, this one feels particularly resilient. It hasn’t developed any stiffness or performance issues, maintaining its integrity even after several months of ownership.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Specifications
This stock is crafted from a single solid piece of hardwood, a testament to its strength and durability. It’s designed specifically for Winchester 670 actions and is a Long Action configuration, meaning it’s built for rifles with longer bolt throw. The Factory Barrel Channel ensures it’s pre-dimensioned for standard factory-profile barrels, simplifying installation for many users.
The No Floor Plate designation means it’s intended for rifles without a detachable box magazine assembly that utilizes a floor plate. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks applies a sleek matte black factory tape finish that not only looks good but also actively prevents wood glare. This finish is designed to be both functional and aesthetically pleasing, fitting well with both new and older rifle builds.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of this stock is to provide a stable and reliable platform for a Winchester 670 rifle. In this regard, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock performs admirably. Its solid hardwood construction offers excellent rigidity, which is crucial for consistent accuracy.
The matte black finish is a definite plus, reducing visual distractions during handling or aiming. While the stock itself doesn’t have active “performance” features like adjustable cheek pieces, its core function of providing a sound bedding surface and a comfortable grip is executed well. It meets expectations for a replacement stock, offering a stable and aesthetically pleasing solution.
Design & Ergonomics
The “Classic” in its name is well-earned; this stock sports a traditional silhouette that harks back to the heyday of bolt-action rifles. The hardwood construction gives it a satisfying weight and feel, conveying a sense of robust quality. The matte black tape finish is smooth and offers a decent grip, though it’s not overly aggressive.
Ergonomically, it’s a standard fixed-position stock, offering a comfortable hold for general use. There’s a slight learning curve for anyone accustomed to more modern, adjustable stocks, but for a classic rifle replacement, it’s quite intuitive. The smooth finish means it won’t snag on clothing or gear.
Durability & Maintenance
Given it’s made from a solid piece of hardwood, this stock is inherently durable for its intended purpose. Under normal workshop or range use, it’s built to last. The factory tape finish offers a reasonable layer of protection against minor scuffs and abrasions.
Cleaning is simple and involves basic wood care practices. There are no complex parts to disassemble or maintain, which is a significant advantage. The primary concern for any wooden stock is prolonged exposure to excessive moisture, which could potentially lead to swelling or warping over time, though this specific finish seems reasonably protective.
Accessories and Customization Options
This specific product is a rifle stock, and as such, it doesn’t typically come with accessories in the traditional sense like a tool or electronic device. However, its Factory Barrel Channel is a key feature for compatibility, designed to accept most standard factory-profile Winchester 670 barrels.
Customization options for this particular model would primarily involve aftermarket modifications such as the addition of a recoil pad, custom bedding, or potentially custom paint or finish work if the buyer desires. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks offers various finish options on their other products, but this specific model comes pre-finished in matte black.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Pros
- Constructed from a single solid piece of hardwood for exceptional strength and durability.
- Designed specifically for Winchester 670 Long Action rifles with a no floor plate configuration.
- Features a sleek matte black factory tape finish that effectively prevents wood glare.
- Offers a classic look that enhances the rifle’s aesthetics.
- The Factory Barrel Channel simplifies installation for barrels with a factory profile.
Cons
- May require minor fitting and inletting for a perfect, custom fit, which is common for aftermarket stocks.
- The fixed design lacks the adjustability found in some modern tactical or hunting stocks.
- While durable, hardwood is susceptible to significant moisture damage if not properly cared for.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock?
This stock is an excellent choice for owners of a Winchester Model 670 rifle chambered for a long action that uses a no floor plate system. It’s ideal for those looking to replace a damaged or warped original stock with a durable and aesthetically pleasing hardwood alternative. Enthusiasts who appreciate traditional rifle designs and the tactile feel of wood will find this stock particularly appealing.
Those who need a highly adjustable stock with features like a customizable comb height or length of pull might want to look elsewhere. Shooters who intend to frequently expose their rifle to extreme wet weather without taking precautions should also consider the inherent limitations of a hardwood stock. For owners of a Winchester 670 looking for a dependable, classic replacement, this Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is a strong contender. A good quality wood stock finish and a sturdy rifle case would be beneficial complementary items.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Classic Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is a robust and attractive replacement option for owners of the specified Winchester rifle. Its solid hardwood construction and classic design offer both durability and timeless appeal. While it may require a bit of user adjustment for a perfect fit, the quality of materials and the protective matte finish make it a worthwhile investment for preserving or restoring a classic firearm.
Considering its price point of $175.99, it represents solid value for money, especially when compared to the cost of trying to repair an old, damaged wooden stock or opting for lesser quality alternatives. I would certainly recommend this stock to anyone looking for a reliable, classic upgrade for their Winchester 670. It’s a piece that brings a rifle back to its former glory with practical elegance.