Worth the Money? My Take on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Left Hand Remington 700 Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock
As an equipment specialist with over a decade of pushing gear to its limits in diverse environments – from dusty workshops and sterile labs to the rugged outdoors and demanding field tests – I’ve learned to appreciate what makes a product truly functional and reliable. When the need arose to replace the stock on a beloved Remington 700 long action rifle, specifically a left-handed model with a preference for bull barrels and a hinged floor plate, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Left Hand Remington 700 Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock immediately caught my eye. My previous stock, while serviceable, lacked the ergonomic refinements and the precise fitment required for consistent accuracy, especially under less-than-ideal shooting conditions. I was also looking for something that would offer a more stable platform for my left-handed shooting style.
My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship. The weight felt substantial without being cumbersome, and the wood grain was attractive, hinting at quality materials. It felt like a significant upgrade from the standard factory offerings. I had briefly considered a few other aftermarket options, including some synthetic stocks that promised lightweight durability, but ultimately, the classic appeal and the specific ergonomic design of the thumbhole appealed to my tactile preferences and shooting style. This Boyds stock offered a compelling blend of tradition and thoughtful design.
Real-World Testing: Putting the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Left Hand Remington 700 Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of this stock involved mounting it onto my Remington 700 long action barreled action. This process, which I’ve performed many times, was remarkably straightforward. The tolerances were exceptionally tight, ensuring a secure and precise fit for the action and the bull barrel channel. I took the rifle out to my usual range, a familiar 100-yard outdoor facility. The initial shots confirmed the improvement; the rifle felt significantly more stable in my hands, allowing for a much steadier hold.
I tested it under varying light conditions and even a light drizzle on a subsequent outing. The stock’s finish, a durable coating, repelled the moisture effectively without becoming slippery. While the thumbhole design is inherently comfortable, it did take a few magazines to fully adapt my grip to its unique contours, but the transition was quick and intuitive. No significant quirks presented themselves, but I did notice a pleasing absence of the subtle flex I’d previously experienced with my old stock during recoil.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use – which includes multiple range days, some extended walks through varied terrain for zero confirmation, and even a few sessions in my workshop fine-tuning the rifle – this Boyds stock has held up exceptionally well. It’s endured the usual bumps and scrapes that come with handling a rifle, and there are no visible cracks, significant scuffs, or signs of structural compromise. The wood remains solid, and the finish continues to protect it from environmental elements.
Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a soft cloth after exposure to dust or moisture is usually all that’s needed. For deeper cleaning, a mild wood-safe cleaner has proven effective. Compared to previous composite or less robust wooden stocks I’ve used, this one feels far more durable and capable of withstanding long-term use without degradation. It’s certainly outperformed some of the cheaper, mass-produced alternatives I’ve encountered in terms of both feel and lasting integrity.
Breaking Down the Features of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Left Hand Remington 700 Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock
Specifications
This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Left Hand Remington 700 Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock is designed specifically for the Remington 700 long action. It features a left-hand configuration, catering directly to left-handed shooters. The stock is built for a bull barrel channel, which is crucial for accommodating larger diameter barrels, offering a more stable shooting platform and better heat dissipation. A key design element is the one-piece hinged floor plate inlet, ensuring a flush and secure fit for rifles equipped with this specific bottom metal.
The “Featherweight” designation implies a balance between strength and weight reduction, achieved through careful shaping and material selection. The traditional thumbhole opening above the trigger guard is a prominent ergonomic feature, designed to provide a comfortable and stable wrist rest for improved control and reduced fatigue during extended shooting sessions. The stock also includes pre-drilled holes for sling swivel studs, a practical necessity for carrying or using a sling. The material is typically hardwood, chosen for its strength and aesthetic appeal.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of this stock is to provide a stable, ergonomic interface between the shooter and the rifle. In this regard, the Boyds Featherweight Thumbhole excels. The precise inletting for the Remington 700 long action ensures that the barreled action is seated securely, minimizing any potential for shifting or play that can negatively impact accuracy. The bull barrel channel is sufficiently generous to accommodate a wide range of bull barrel profiles without binding, allowing the barrel to float freely or mate precisely as intended by the rifle’s build.
The thumbhole grip significantly enhances stability, particularly for left-handed shooters, by promoting a more natural hand position and discouraging wrist strain. Recoil management is also improved due to this better control. Its main strength lies in its ergonomic refinement and excellent fitment. A minor area for potential improvement, though not a significant detractor, is that the depth of the thumbhole might feel slightly pronounced for shooters with very small hands, though this is highly subjective.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this Boyds stock is immediately apparent. The hardwood construction feels robust and dense, providing a solid foundation. The finish is smooth and appealing, with a natural wood grain that adds a touch of classic firearm aesthetics. The thumbhole design is the standout ergonomic feature, offering a distinct grip position that naturally aligns the index finger with the trigger.
This specific design is a boon for left-handed shooters, providing a comfortable and secure purchase that many traditional stocks don’t offer. The hinged floor plate inlet is meticulously machined, ensuring that the bottom metal sits flush and integrates seamlessly with the stock. While the overall feel is substantial, it avoids being overly bulky, striking a good balance that aligns with the “Featherweight” nomenclature. The texture of the wood and finish provides a confident grip, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the hardwood construction and the protective finish, this Boyds stock is built for longevity. Under typical use, such as regular range trips, hunting excursions, or bench rest shooting, I anticipate it will last for many years, likely outliving many rifles it’s fitted to. The material itself is inherently durable, and the factory finish offers good resistance to common environmental factors like moisture and light abrasion.
Maintenance is minimal and straightforward, primarily involving regular cleaning to remove debris and occasional waxing or oiling to maintain the finish’s luster and protective qualities. There are no obvious failure points in the design itself, assuming it is correctly fitted and not subjected to extreme abuse beyond its intended purpose. The 1-piece construction means fewer potential points of failure compared to multi-part stocks.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Left Hand Remington 700 Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock comes ready to accept standard sling swivel studs, and I installed them myself with no issues. The primary customization aspect of this product is the rifle it’s being fitted to itself, and the fact that it’s inlet for a bull barrel and a specific action type means it’s already a tailored component.
While Boyds often offers various finish options or even custom laser engraving on their stocks, this specific model’s core appeal is its pre-defined ergonomic and functional configuration. It is designed to work seamlessly with the Remington 700 long action and standard hinged floor plate assemblies. No other specific accessories are typically included with the stock itself, as it is intended to be a direct replacement or upgrade part for an existing rifle.
Pros and Cons of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Left Hand Remington 700 Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock
Pros
- Exceptional Ergonomics for Left-Handers: The dedicated left-hand thumbhole design provides a naturally comfortable and stable grip, reducing fatigue and improving control.
- Precise Fitment: Manufactured to tight tolerances for Remington 700 long actions, ensuring a secure and accurate bedding of the barreled action.
- Bull Barrel Compatibility: The generous bull barrel channel accommodates larger diameter barrels, essential for precision builds.
- Solid Hardwood Construction: Offers a satisfying heft and perceived durability, contributing to recoil management and a premium feel.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The classic hardwood finish and thumbhole design lend a traditional yet refined look to the rifle.
Cons
- Limited Adjustability: While ergonomic, the fixed thumbhole position may not suit every shooter’s unique hand size or preference.
- Weight: While marketed as “Featherweight,” it is still a hardwood stock and will be heavier than many modern synthetic options.
- Susceptible to Impact Damage: As with any hardwood, it can be prone to dings and dents if not handled with reasonable care.
- Price Point: At $199.99, it represents a significant investment for a stock, though justified by its quality.
Who Should Buy the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Left Hand Remington 700 Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock?
This stock is ideally suited for left-handed shooters who own or are building a Remington 700 long action rifle, particularly those utilizing a bull barrel and a hinged floor plate. It’s a fantastic choice for precision rifle builders, serious hunters, and competitive shooters who prioritize a stable shooting platform and ergonomic comfort over ultralight weight. Anyone seeking to upgrade from a basic factory stock to something with superior ergonomics and classic aesthetics will find this a compelling option.
Individuals who should probably skip this product are those who require an ultra-lightweight rifle for extensive backcountry carry, or those who prefer highly adjustable stocks with a multitude of customization points. Shooters who prefer the feel and robustness of synthetic materials or who are on a very tight budget might also look elsewhere. For those who do opt for this stock, ensuring proper torque settings during installation and perhaps investing in a high-quality rifle sling would be beneficial complementary items.
Conclusion on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Left Hand Remington 700 Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Left Hand Remington 700 Long Action 1 Piece Hinged Floor Plate Bull Barrel Channel Stock is, without question, a premium upgrade for the discerning left-handed Remington 700 shooter. It delivers on its promise of enhanced ergonomics and precise fitment, transforming the feel and handling of the rifle. The solid hardwood construction and thoughtful thumbhole design create a stable, comfortable shooting experience that translates directly to improved accuracy and reduced shooter fatigue.
Considering its performance, build quality, and the tangible improvement it offers, the $199.99 price point feels justified. It’s a piece of craftsmanship that brings both functional benefit and aesthetic appeal. I would readily recommend this stock to any left-handed shooter looking for a substantial upgrade to their Remington 700 long action, especially if they are building a rifle for precision shooting or serious hunting. It’s a smart investment that offers long-term satisfaction.