Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Review

Beyond Specs: Living with the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

For years, my go-to rifle for various utility tasks—from pest control on the property to general range practice—has been a Mossberg 100 ATR. It’s a solid, no-nonsense rifle that has served me well, but its factory stock, while functional, left something to be desired in terms of comfort and aesthetic appeal. I’d been eyeing aftermarket options, and when the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock became available, it presented an opportunity to significantly enhance the rifle’s feel and handling. My previous stock felt a bit… pedestrian, lacking the ergonomic refinements that make a rifle a true pleasure to shoot, especially during extended sessions. I considered a few other synthetic options, but the allure of a genuine hardwood stock, with its unique grain and perceived durability, ultimately drew me to Boyds. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of quiet satisfaction; the wood felt substantial, and the unfinished surface promised a blank canvas for customization.

Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test

First Use Experience

The initial test drive involved fitting the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock onto my Mossberg 100 ATR. This was performed in my home workshop, a controlled environment where I could meticulously check the fit and alignment before any live fire. The stock slid into place with surprising ease, indicating excellent factory tolerances for the Mossberg 100 ATR short action. I then took it to my usual outdoor range, a place that sees everything from crisp autumn mornings to humid summer afternoons, to truly assess its performance. The thumbhole design immediately changed how I settled into the shooting position; it felt more natural and less straining on my wrist and neck when acquiring targets.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, involving multiple range visits and even a weekend trip where the rifle was carried in a soft case through varied terrain, this Boyds stock has held up remarkably well. It has seen dusty conditions, a light drizzle, and the residual heat of the summer sun without any discernible degradation in its finish or structural integrity. The hardwood construction feels exceptionally robust, showing only minor cosmetic marks despite being accidentally brushed against a fence post once. Cleaning has been straightforward; a light dusting and occasional wipe-down suffice, and I’ve found no need for specialized treatments beyond occasional wood polish applied sparingly. Compared to the plastic factory stock it replaced, which always felt a bit hollow, this hardwood option provides a reassuring solidity that translates to better perceived accuracy and handling.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

Specifications

This particular Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is crafted from high-quality hardwood, with each piece possessing a unique grain pattern due to the natural drying process. It’s designed specifically for the Mossberg 100 ATR short action and features a factory barrel channel, ensuring compatibility with standard barrel profiles. The Featherweight designation implies a focus on reducing overall weight without sacrificing structural integrity, which is crucial for a rifle that might be carried. The Thumbhole design is a key ergonomic feature, offering a more comfortable and stable grip by allowing the shooter’s thumb to rest in a dedicated groove.

This thumbhole configuration is not just about comfort; it promotes a more consistent cheek weld and reduces perceived recoil by allowing a more relaxed grip. The attention to detail in drying the wood ensures stability and prevents warping, which is a critical factor for maintaining zero and consistent shot placement over time. The factory barrel channel specification is vital for users who don’t intend to use a heavy varmint barrel, ensuring a snug fit without requiring extensive modifications.

Performance & Functionality

In practice, the Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock fundamentally transforms the handling characteristics of the Mossberg 100 ATR. The primary job of any stock is to provide a stable platform for the action and a comfortable interface for the shooter, and this stock excels at both. The thumbhole grip allows for a more natural and relaxed hand position, which I found reduced fatigue during longer shooting sessions significantly. This enhanced stability translates directly to improved accuracy; the rifle simply feels more “connected” to my hand and shoulder.

The stock’s primary strength lies in its superior ergonomics and the feel of natural hardwood. Its main weakness, if one can even call it that, is that it requires the shooter to adapt to the thumbhole grip, which might not be ideal for every single shooting stance or preference, though it is generally very forgiving. It definitely meets and exceeds expectations for what a factory replacement stock should offer, particularly for its price point.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The hardwood construction gives it a premium feel that the original synthetic stock simply couldn’t match. The finish, while initially raw, takes well to oil or varnish, allowing for a truly personalized look.

The ergonomics are where this stock truly shines. The thumbhole is well-contoured, providing excellent support without feeling restrictive. This encourages a consistent hand placement, which is crucial for repeatable accuracy. The pistol grip portion offers a comfortable and secure purchase, even with slightly damp hands.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a strong suit for this hardwood stock. It feels solid and capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use in various outdoor environments. While it’s not impervious to damage, the inherent toughness of hardwood means it should last for many years, possibly outlasting the rifle itself with proper care.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A light application of stock finish or oil periodically keeps the wood protected and looking its best. I found that a quick wipe-down after each outing was sufficient to remove dust and grime. There are no intricate parts or seals to worry about, making it an ideal choice for those who prefer low-maintenance equipment.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular stock comes as a standalone unit, designed to directly replace the original Mossberg 100 ATR short action factory stock. Therefore, it doesn’t include any bundled accessories. However, the beauty of a hardwood stock lies in its potential for customization.

The raw finish allows users to apply their preferred stain or finish, creating a truly unique look. For those looking to further personalize their rifle, compatible sling swivels can easily be installed in the provided sling stud locations, allowing for a sling of your choice to be attached.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock?

This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is an excellent choice for any owner of a Mossberg 100 ATR short action rifle who is looking to significantly upgrade the ergonomics and aesthetics of their firearm. It is particularly well-suited for shooters who experience hand or wrist fatigue with traditional pistol grips, or those who simply appreciate the feel and look of natural wood. Hobbyist gunsmiths or individuals who enjoy personalizing their firearms will also find this stock appealing due to its unfinished state, ready for custom staining or finishing.

Those who should perhaps reconsider are individuals who prioritize the absolute lightest rifle possible above all else, as even the “Featherweight” designation will likely add some mass compared to advanced synthetic stocks. Furthermore, users who need an immediate, plug-and-play, fully finished solution might find the initial finishing steps an inconvenience. A good quality stock finish and a comfortable sling are highly recommended accessories to complement this stock and maximize its potential.

Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock represents a substantial upgrade for the Mossberg 100 ATR rifle. It successfully blends improved ergonomics with the timeless appeal of hardwood, offering a shooting experience that is both more comfortable and more precise. For its price point of $175.99, the value proposition is exceptionally strong, providing a level of quality and customization rarely found in factory-issued components.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this stock to any Mossberg 100 ATR short action owner seeking to enhance their rifle’s performance and feel. It’s a testament to Boyds’ craftsmanship and dedication to providing shooters with high-quality, accessible upgrades. If you value comfort, control, and the distinct character that natural wood brings to a firearm, this stock is an investment well worth making.