What Makes the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel Click?
My quest for a more ergonomic and aesthetically pleasing stock for my Mossberg 100 ATR short action rifle led me to the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel. The factory stock, while functional, lacked a certain refined feel and customization potential I was seeking. I specifically needed a left-hand stock designed for a right-hand action, a niche requirement that often limits options.
The initial impression upon unboxing this stock was one of solid craftsmanship. The hardwood felt substantial, yet the “Featherweight” designation suggested it wouldn’t add excessive bulk. I had considered a more utilitarian synthetic stock, but the allure of natural wood and the unique thumbhole design pushed me towards this Boyds offering.
A quick glance confirmed that the craftsmanship matched the feel – clean lines and a smooth finish promised a significant upgrade. This initial encounter offered a sense of immediate satisfaction, a feeling that the right piece for my rifle had finally arrived.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing environment was primarily my home workshop and the local shooting range. I fitted the stock onto my Mossberg 100 ATR, ensuring a snug and correct alignment. The factory barrel channel proved to be a perfect match, requiring no modifications.
During initial handling, the stock felt remarkably comfortable, even before live fire. The thumbhole design provided a natural and stable grip, an immediate improvement over the standard pistol grip. Recoil mitigation was a key factor, and I noted how the added weight and natural balance of the hardwood stock seemed to absorb some of the felt recoil.
There were no immediate issues or surprises; the fit was as advertised, and the ergonomics were evident from the first moment I held it. It felt intuitive, like a natural extension of the rifle itself.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including range days and transporting the rifle, the Boyds stock has held up exceptionally well. The hardwood finish shows minimal signs of wear, resisting scratches and scuffs from regular handling. I’ve encountered light dust and the occasional minor bump without issue.
Maintenance has been straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of wood polish keeps it looking its best. Unlike some synthetic stocks that can become brittle or degrade, this hardwood unit feels exceptionally durable. Compared to my previous factory stock, which felt somewhat hollow and less robust, this Boyds model offers a significant upgrade in perceived longevity and build quality.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
Specifications
This specific model is the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel. It’s designed for a Mossberg 100 ATR rifle, specifically for a short action length. The key identifier here is that it’s a Left Hand Stock for a Right Hand Action, a critical detail for left-handed shooters who operate a right-handed bolt.
The defining characteristic is the Featherweight Thumbhole design. This implies a focus on weight reduction while incorporating the ergonomic benefits of a thumbhole grip. The Factory Barrel Channel ensures a direct fit for barrels that were originally produced for the Mossberg 100 ATR.
The Finished specification means the stock arrives ready for immediate installation, without requiring additional sanding or finishing work. This saves significant time and effort for the end-user. The choice of hardwood also contributes to its natural beauty and inherent durability.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of any rifle stock is to provide a stable platform for aiming and to manage recoil. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel excels in both these areas. The thumbhole grip offers superior control and a consistent cheek weld, which is crucial for accurate shooting.
The weight distribution, inherent to the hardwood construction, noticeably tames muzzle flip during firing. This allows for quicker follow-up shots and a generally more pleasant shooting experience. While it’s not a “performance-enhancing” feature in the sense of adding power, it directly translates to improved shooter control and accuracy potential.
The main job of this stock is to be a better interface between the shooter and the rifle, and it does that exceptionally well. Its strengths lie in its ergonomic design and its ability to manage recoil effectively.
Design & Ergonomics
The Featherweight Thumbhole design is the standout ergonomic feature. The thumbhole creates a natural resting place for the shooting thumb, promoting a more relaxed and stable hand position. This leads to reduced fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
The hardwood construction provides a classic, tactile feel that synthetic materials often lack. The finish is smooth to the touch, yet provides enough texture to prevent slippage, even with sweaty hands. The overall build quality feels robust, with no flex or creaking when handled firmly.
The precision with which the stock is inletted ensures a tight fit against the rifle’s action. This precise fit is vital for maintaining consistent accuracy and contributes to the overall solid feel of the rifle.
Durability & Maintenance
Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks are renowned for their durability, and this model is no exception. The use of high-quality hardwoods means the stock is resistant to cracking and warping, even under varying environmental conditions. While it’s not impervious to heavy impacts, it’s built to withstand the rigors of regular shooting activities.
Cleaning is simple; a soft, damp cloth is usually sufficient for routine care. For deeper cleaning or to restore the luster, a wood-specific polish or wax can be applied. I haven’t experienced any significant wear, such as delamination or splintering, even after several range trips and the occasional inadvertent bump against a workbench.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel itself is a significant customization for the rifle. It directly replaces the original stock.
While this particular model doesn’t come with additional accessories, Boyds offers various finishes and inletting options for other models, allowing for further personalization. The Factory Barrel Channel means you are utilizing the existing barrel and forend assembly, so compatibility with standard Mossberg 100 ATR components is a given.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
Pros
- Ergonomic Thumbhole Design: Provides superior grip stability and a natural hand position for enhanced control.
- High-Quality Hardwood Construction: Offers a beautiful aesthetic and durable, solid feel.
- Excellent Recoil Management: The weight and design help to absorb and mitigate felt recoil.
- Precise Fitment: Designed with a Factory Barrel Channel for a seamless integration with the Mossberg 100 ATR action.
- Left Hand Stock for Right Hand Action: Addresses a specific need for left-handed shooters operating a common rifle configuration.
- Finished for Immediate Installation*: Ready to go out of the box, saving considerable time and effort.
Cons
- Weight: While designated “Featherweight,” it will inherently be heavier than most synthetic stocks.
- Price: Higher than basic polymer or entry-level synthetic stocks.
- Limited to Specific Action/Gun Model: This is a specialized part, not a universal fit.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel?
This stock is an ideal upgrade for left-handed shooters who own a Mossberg 100 ATR with a short action and desire improved ergonomics and aesthetics. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the classic look and feel of hardwood and want a more comfortable and stable shooting platform. If you’re a shooter who values a solid cheek weld and better recoil management without resorting to aftermarket recoil pads, this stock is a strong contender.
Anyone looking for an extremely lightweight, tactical-style stock might want to look elsewhere, as this model prioritizes classic design and natural materials. Shooters with an ambidextrous rifle or those needing a stock for a different action length or gun model will need to seek out other Boyds offerings.
For optimal use, ensuring you have the correct torque when mounting the action into the stock is crucial. Using appropriate gunsmithing tools for the installation will prevent damage and ensure the best possible fit.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Featherweight Thumbhole Mossberg 100 ATR Short Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel represents a significant upgrade for any compatible Mossberg 100 ATR rifle. It successfully blends classic hardwood aesthetics with modern ergonomic principles, offering a tangible improvement in both feel and function. The Left Hand Stock for Right Hand Action configuration is a thoughtful inclusion that addresses a specific shooter need.
Considering its price point of $199.99, the value proposition is strong for those seeking a premium, durable, and ergonomically superior stock. It transforms the user experience by providing enhanced control and recoil absorption, making each shooting session more enjoyable and precise.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this Boyds stock to left-handed Mossberg 100 ATR owners looking to elevate their rifle’s performance and appearance. It’s a well-crafted piece that delivers on its promises of quality and improved handling.