True Results from the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 Mountain Long Action Detachable Box Magazine Factory Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 Mountain Long Action Detachable Box Magazine Factory Barrel Channel Stock is a compelling option for those looking to upgrade their Remington 700 Mountain rifle. It promises a blend of traditional aesthetics with modern functionality, specifically catering to the long action variant. This stock aims to enhance handling, magazine compatibility, and overall shooting platform stability.
My own journey to this particular stock was driven by a desire to improve the ergonomics and modularity of a well-loved Remington 700 Mountain rifle that I use for precision shooting exercises. The factory stock, while functional, lacked the features I needed for consistent prone shooting and reliable detachable magazine feeding. I considered a few other aftermarket stocks, but most were either significantly more expensive or lacked the specific long action and detachable magazine support I required. Upon receiving the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 Mountain Long Action Detachable Box Magazine Factory Barrel Channel Stock, my initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship, with a promising heft and clean lines.
First Use Experience
My first hands-on experience with this stock took place at my workbench, fitting the barreled action. The inletting was remarkably precise, requiring minimal fettling to achieve a perfect flush fit with my Remington 700 long action barreled action. Swapping out the factory magazine system for the detachable box magazine setup was straightforward, thanks to the intuitive thumb screw mechanism.
Subsequent testing involved actual range time, focusing on prone shooting and positional accuracy. The stock’s design provided a stable base, and the full-length top rail offered ample support for accessories like a bipod. It handled a variety of ammunition types without any degradation in performance, and the laminated hardwood construction felt robust against minor environmental shifts.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including multiple range trips and some extended field excursions, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 Mountain Long Action Detachable Box Magazine Factory Barrel Channel Stock has proven itself to be a reliable upgrade. The finish has held up remarkably well, showing only minor scuffs from being leaned against various surfaces, which is to be expected. There are no signs of delamination or structural compromise, even after repeated magazine changes and bipod deployments.
Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and a light application of furniture polish keeps the hardwood looking its best. Unlike some synthetic stocks that can develop creaks or flex over time, this model retains its solid feel. When compared to the factory plastic stock, its durability and the overall feel of quality are significantly enhanced, offering a tangible improvement in handling and shooting comfort.
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 Mountain Long Action Detachable Box Magazine Factory Barrel Channel Stock is engineered for precision and versatility. It features a full-length top rail for accessory mounting, which is crucial for serious shooters who need to mount optics, bipods, and other gear without compromise. The removable bench-rest style beavertail rear barrel turret is a notable addition, allowing for fine-tuning of barrel contact or removal for a cleaner profile.
Its compatibility with Remington Detachable Magazines addresses a common upgrade desire for many Remington 700 owners, providing faster and more convenient reloads. The factory barrel channel ensures a precise fit for standard factory barrels, simplifying the installation process. The inclusion of a longer box mag well accommodates higher capacity magazines, a significant advantage for extended shooting sessions.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of core performance, this stock delivers exceptionally well for its intended purpose. The primary job of any rifle stock is to securely house the action and provide a stable platform for accurate shooting, and the Prairie Hunter excels here. The combination of the laminated hardwood construction and the generous dimensions of the stock contribute to a very solid feel, minimizing unwanted flex or vibration during recoil.
The detachable box magazine system is a clear highlight, functioning smoothly and reliably in every instance. Loading and unloading magazines is intuitive, and the magazine release mechanism is easily accessible without being overly sensitive. The full-length top rail is perfectly flat and well-machined, providing a secure mounting surface.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 Mountain Long Action Detachable Box Magazine Factory Barrel Channel Stock strikes an excellent balance between traditional aesthetics and modern tactical features. The use of laminated hardwood gives it a premium feel, far superior to injection-molded plastics. The finish is smooth and consistent, with the grain of the wood visible, adding a touch of class.
Ergonomically, the stock is designed for comfortable and stable shooting. The forend is substantial, offering a good grip surface for hand placement when shooting off a bag or barricade. The pistol grip is well-shaped, providing a natural hand position that aids in trigger control. The length of pull, combined with the full-length recoil pad, contributes to a comfortable shooting experience, even with heavier recoiling calibers.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of this stock is one of its most significant strengths. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks is known for its robust construction, and the Prairie Hunter is no exception. The laminated hardwood is inherently strong and resistant to warping or cracking under normal use. I’ve had instances where the rifle was inadvertently bumped against hard surfaces, and the stock has shown excellent resilience, with only minor superficial marks that were easily buffed out.
Maintenance is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional polishing is all that is needed to keep it in pristine condition. The finish is durable enough to withstand moderate handling without showing signs of wear. Potential failure points are minimal; the most critical component would be the magazine well and its associated release mechanism, which feels robust and well-integrated into the stock.
Accessories and Customization Options
While this stock itself is a significant upgrade, its design also opens up various accessory and customization possibilities. The full-length top rail is a prime example, readily accepting a wide array of bipod mounts, such as popular models from Harris or Atlas. This allows shooters to tailor their rifle’s setup for specific shooting disciplines, whether it’s bench rest, field hunting, or tactical application.
The primary customization inherent to this stock is its seamless integration with Remington Detachable Magazines. This upgrade alone transforms the rifle’s usability, and Boyds offers different magazine well configurations depending on the specific rifle action and magazine type. While the stock doesn’t come with additional accessories beyond what’s required for the magazine conversion, its compatibility with standard ARCA rails or picatinny sections (if added via aftermarket solutions) offers further expansion potential.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 Mountain Long Action Detachable Box Magazine Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Pros
- Exceptional build quality with durable laminated hardwood construction.
- Precise inletting for Remington 700 long action ensures a snug fit.
- Integrated detachable box magazine system offers modern convenience and faster reloads.
- Full-length top rail provides a stable and versatile platform for accessories.
- Improved ergonomics for better stability and handling during shooting.
- Classic aesthetic appeal combined with modern functionality.
Cons
- May require some minor inletting adjustment for non-standard barrels.
- The rear beavertail turret, while functional, might be perceived as an unnecessary complexity for some users.
- Price point, while competitive for its features, is still a significant investment.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 Mountain Long Action Detachable Box Magazine Factory Barrel Channel Stock?
This stock is an ideal choice for owners of Remington 700 Mountain rifles in long action who are looking to upgrade their rifle’s functionality and aesthetics. It’s particularly well-suited for shooters who want to transition to a reliable detachable box magazine system and appreciate the stability offered by a full-length top rail for accessories like bipods. Hunters and precision shooting enthusiasts who value a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern performance will find this stock to be an excellent upgrade.
Those who should likely skip this stock are users with highly specialized or custom-contoured barrels that might require significant inletting work, or individuals seeking an ultra-lightweight stock for extreme long-range backpacking where every ounce counts. For those seeking the most budget-friendly option, a factory synthetic stock might suffice, but it will lack the functional and aesthetic improvements offered by this Boyds model. A quality bipod and compatible detachable box magazines are essential complementary items to fully leverage the capabilities of this stock.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 Mountain Long Action Detachable Box Magazine Factory Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Remington 700 Mountain Long Action Detachable Box Magazine Factory Barrel Channel Stock represents a significant step up from factory offerings for the Remington 700 Mountain rifle. Its robust construction, precise fit, and thoughtful integration of modern features like the detachable magazine system and full-length rail make it a compelling upgrade. The blend of classic hardwood aesthetics with practical functionality is masterfully executed, offering a tactile and visual improvement over standard polymer stocks.
Considering its price of $199.99, the value proposition is strong. You’re investing in a durable, well-crafted component that enhances both the performance and usability of your rifle. I wholeheartedly recommend this stock to any Remington 700 long action owner looking to elevate their shooting experience. It’s an investment that pays dividends in terms of accuracy, handling, and overall satisfaction with your firearm.