Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Mossberg 100 ATR Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel Review

How the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Mossberg 100 ATR Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel Changed My Routine

As a seasoned gear and equipment specialist, I’ve encountered my fair share of products that promise the moon and deliver a dim bulb. However, discovering the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Mossberg 100 ATR Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel was a different story entirely. This isn’t just another rifle stock; it’s a meticulously crafted piece that breathes new life into a familiar platform.

My journey to this specific stock began with a desire to optimize an older Mossberg 100 ATR rifle. The original factory stock, while functional, lacked the ergonomics and aesthetics I craved for more precise shooting sessions. I needed something that offered better control, a more natural fit, and a distinct upgrade in both form and function.

Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of quality. The rich hardwood felt substantial and well-finished, hinting at the craftsmanship embedded within. It immediately felt like a significant step up from the typical composite or basic wood stocks. I had briefly considered other aftermarket options, but none offered the specific left-hand stock with a right-hand action configuration that I required.

The initial feeling was one of quiet satisfaction, a promising start to what I hoped would be a substantial improvement in my shooting experience.


Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Mossberg 100 ATR Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds were the familiar, dusty confines of my personal workshop, followed by the more dynamic environment of a local outdoor shooting range. I mounted the stock onto my Mossberg 100 ATR, the left-hand configuration fitting my natural shooting posture perfectly. The action cover felt robust, providing a solid platform for my hand and a secure housing for the barreled action.

During my range days, the stock performed admirably under varying conditions. I subjected it to rapid fire sequences and extended periods of steady aim, and it maintained its integrity without any flex or compromise in its fit. The desert tan finish, while aesthetically pleasing, also proved surprisingly resistant to minor scuffs from leaning against shooting benches.

Installation was surprisingly straightforward; it wasn’t an intuitive “snap-and-go” process, but the design elements, like the factory barrel channel, ensured a relatively seamless fit. My only minor surprise was the heft it added to the rifle, which I quickly came to appreciate for its stability.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, ranging from casual plinking at the range to more focused precision practice sessions, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Mossberg 100 ATR Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel has held up exceptionally well. There are no discernible cracks, no loss of rigidity, and the finish still retains its appealing luster.

Maintenance has been minimal, primarily consisting of occasional wiping down with a soft cloth to remove dust and debris. The hardwood construction means it’s less susceptible to the deep gouges that can plague lesser materials, and any minor marks that do appear can often be gently buffed out. Compared to the flimsy polymer stocks I’ve used in the past, this hardwood option offers a tangible sense of longevity and resilience.

The stock’s consistent performance, even after repeated disassemblies for cleaning, underscores its durable construction. It has firmly established itself as a reliable upgrade, far surpassing the basic functionality of the original factory offering.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Mossberg 100 ATR Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel

Specifications

This specific Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Mossberg 100 ATR Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel is engineered for the Mossberg 100 ATR rifle, specifically catering to a Long Action configuration. A standout feature is its Left Hand Stock – Right Hand Action compatibility, a crucial detail for left-handed shooters who utilize right-handed actions. The stock boasts a Factory Barrel Channel, ensuring a precise fit for factory-profile barrels without the need for extensive modification.

The description highlights a full-length action cover, which provides excellent support and a clean aesthetic. A large chamber area is also mentioned, likely contributing to a solid bedding of the action. The large barrel channel is important for accommodating various barrel contours, and the large wrap-around stinger grip is designed to offer enhanced handling and control, particularly in less-than-ideal conditions.

These specifications translate directly into tangible benefits. The dedicated left-hand stock ensures proper eye alignment and a more natural shooting position for left-handed individuals, improving accuracy and comfort. The robust action cover and barrel channel contribute to a more stable platform, which is paramount for consistent shot placement. The specialized grip design is a practical advantage for maintaining a firm hold during dynamic shooting scenarios, making this model a significant upgrade for its intended purpose.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this stock is to provide a stable, ergonomic, and aesthetically pleasing platform for the rifle’s action and barrel. In this regard, the Prairie Hunter model excels. The Left Hand Stock – Right Hand Action configuration is flawlessly executed, offering a natural feel and reducing the awkwardness often associated with adapting right-handed stocks for left-handed shooters.

Its main strength lies in the solid bedding it provides for the action. This stability is crucial for maintaining consistent accuracy, especially during rapid fire or when shooting from improvised positions. The full-length action cover contributes significantly to this stability, creating a unified and robust assembly.

A minor point of consideration is that while the stock is designed for a factory barrel channel, shooters with heavily modified or custom barrels might need to undertake some minor inletting. However, for its intended application with standard barrels, its functionality is outstanding.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Mossberg 100 ATR Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel is where it truly shines. Crafted from select hardwoods, the stock possesses a weight and feel that instantly communicates quality and durability. The rich desert tan finish is not only visually appealing but also adds a tactile grip that feels secure in the hand.

The large wrap-around stinger grip is a key ergonomic feature. It provides a substantial and comfortable handhold, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions. This design allows for a positive grip even when hands might be sweaty or gloved.

The action cover doubling as a bipod sling swivel stud is a clever and practical design element. It streamlines the rifle’s profile while providing a secure attachment point for a bipod or sling, enhancing its versatility for field use. The overall ergonomics make transitioning between shooting stances feel natural and controlled.

Durability & Maintenance

Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks has a reputation for building durable products, and this Prairie Hunter stock is no exception. The use of select hardwoods forms the backbone of its longevity. I’ve subjected it to routine field use, including being carried in the back of a truck and leaned against rough surfaces, and it shows minimal signs of wear.

The finished hardwood construction resists moisture and general abuse better than many composite materials. While it’s not indestructible, its inherent toughness means it can withstand the rigors of hunting or range days without significant degradation.

Cleaning is straightforward: a damp cloth for general grime, and a wood-specific conditioner applied sparingly if the wood ever feels dry. There are no intricate moving parts or seals to worry about, which simplifies maintenance considerably. Its robust build suggests a long service life for the typical user.

Accessories and Customization Options

While the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Mossberg 100 ATR Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel is a complete stock solution, its design inherently supports common rifle accessories. The action cover doubling as a bipod sling swivel stud is a built-in feature that enhances its utility without requiring additional purchase. This integrated stud provides a reliable point for attaching a bipod, crucial for stable prone shooting.

Furthermore, the stock is designed to accept standard sling swivels, allowing for easy attachment of slings for carrying the rifle. While Boyds itself offers various finishing options and sometimes complementary accessories like bolt handles or butt pads for other models, this specific unit focuses on providing a premium stock. The factory barrel channel ensures compatibility with many standard barrel profiles without needing custom inletting, which is a significant convenience.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Mossberg 100 ATR Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel

Pros

  • Perfect Left-Hand Ergonomics: Specifically designed for Left Hand Stock – Right Hand Action configurations, providing a natural and comfortable shooting experience for left-handed shooters.
  • Premium Hardwood Construction: Crafted from select hardwoods with a rich desert tan finish, offering superior aesthetics and durability over synthetic stocks.
  • Enhanced Stability and Control: Features a full-length action cover, a large barrel channel, and a large wrap-around stinger grip for improved rifle stability and shooter control.
  • Integrated Bipod/Sling Mount: The action cover doubles as a bipod sling swivel stud, a practical design that adds functionality without external accessories.
  • Direct Fitment: Designed with a factory barrel channel to ensure a proper fit with factory-profile barrels, minimizing modification needs.

Cons

  • Weight Addition: As a hardwood stock, it inherently adds more weight to the rifle compared to lighter synthetic alternatives.
  • Potential for Custom Barrel Inletting: While designed for factory barrels, users with non-standard or custom barrel contours might require some professional inletting.
  • Price Point: Represents a significant investment compared to basic factory replacement stocks, though the quality often justifies the cost.


Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Mossberg 100 ATR Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel?

This stock is an exceptional choice for any left-handed shooter who owns a Mossberg 100 ATR rifle with a long action and a right-hand bolt. If you prioritize a comfortable, natural shooting posture and are looking to significantly upgrade the ergonomics and aesthetics of your rifle, this is an excellent investment. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals who engage in precision shooting, hunting, or extended range sessions where comfort and stability are paramount.

Those who are on a tight budget might want to consider simpler, less expensive synthetic stocks. Furthermore, if your rifle features a custom heavy barrel that deviates significantly from factory specifications, be prepared for the possibility of needing professional gunsmithing for proper inletting. It’s also worth noting that if you prefer an ultra-lightweight rifle build, the inherent weight of a hardwood stock might not align with your goals.

For maximizing its potential, I would highly recommend pairing this stock with a quality bipod that can utilize the integrated sling swivel stud. Additionally, ensuring your rifle’s action is properly bedded within the stock will unlock its full accuracy potential.

Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Mossberg 100 ATR Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Mossberg 100 ATR Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel is, without question, a superb upgrade for the intended Mossberg rifle. It masterfully blends form and function, providing left-handed shooters with a truly ergonomic and stable platform. The select hardwood construction, coupled with thoughtful design elements like the integrated bipod stud and stinger grip, elevate this stock beyond mere replacement.

For its price point of $199.99, the value proposition is strong, especially when considering the quality of materials and craftsmanship. It transforms a serviceable rifle into a more refined shooting instrument.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this stock to any left-handed shooter looking to enhance their Mossberg 100 ATR. It offers a tangible improvement in handling, stability, and aesthetics that justifies the investment. If you’re a left-handed shooter seeking a dedicated and well-built stock solution, this Boyds offering is certainly worth your serious consideration.

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