Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock Review

A Close Look at the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock

As a seasoned gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’m constantly seeking out components that enhance firearm performance and user experience. My recent project involved a Savage 11 Hog Hunter in a short action configuration, and I found myself needing a stock that could handle a bull barrel and offer improved ergonomics for extended use. This led me to the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock, a product promising both robust construction and thoughtful design. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship; the hardwood felt substantial, and the finish appeared to be applied with care. While I briefly considered more budget-friendly synthetic options, the allure of a durable hardwood stock for this specific rifle was too strong to ignore. My first reaction was a sense of quiet satisfaction, a feeling that this component might just be the perfect fit.

Real-World Testing: Putting the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of this Savage 11 stock took place at my home workshop, followed by several range days specifically focused on its fit and feel during firing. I installed it on a Savage 11 Hog Hunter short action, ensuring the bull barrel channel accommodated the barrel without binding. The stock slid into place with satisfying precision, and the action screws tightened down securely, aligning perfectly with the receiver. During extended bench rest sessions and off-hand shooting drills, the Prairie Hunter stock provided a stable and comfortable platform. I noted that its design inherently encouraged a more upright shooting posture, which proved beneficial for follow-up shots.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including a couple of hunting trips where the rifle was exposed to varying weather conditions, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock has held up exceptionally well. The hardwood shows no signs of cracking or warping, despite being subjected to moderate moisture and temperature fluctuations. The finish remains intact, with only minor cosmetic scuffs from being carried in and out of rifle cases. Cleaning is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth followed by a light coat of furniture polish keeps it looking its best. Compared to a previous synthetic stock I’d used on a similar rifle, this hardwood offering provides a more substantial feel and superior thermal insulation, making it more comfortable to hold in colder temperatures.

Breaking Down the Features of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock

Specifications

This stock is specifically designed for the Savage 11 Hog Hunter in a short action configuration, featuring a blind mag configuration and a channel cut to accommodate a bull barrel. The manufacturer, Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, has engineered this stock with a full-length top rail, enhancing stability and providing a solid foundation for optics. Its construction from high-quality hardwood ensures durability and a premium aesthetic. The stock also includes integral adjustable length of pull sling swivel studs, offering flexibility for various shooting and carrying needs.

These specifications are critical for several reasons. The bull barrel channel is essential for proper fit and free-floating of heavier barrels, which directly impacts accuracy. The blind mag design simplifies the profile and reduces potential snag points, a benefit in rugged environments. The adjustable sling swivel studs offer a practical advantage for hunters and shooters who utilize slings for stability or transport.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this stock is to provide a stable and ergonomic platform for a Savage 11 Hog Hunter rifle. In this regard, the Prairie Hunter model excels. It offers a solid and consistent hold, allowing for more accurate shot placement. The full-length top rail contributes significantly to the rifle’s overall rigidity. I found that the stock’s design inherently helps to manage recoil more effectively, particularly when paired with a bull barrel.

Its strengths lie in its robust construction and the improved handling characteristics it imparts. The ergonomics are well-thought-out, promoting a natural shooting position. A minor weakness, if one could call it that, is that the hardwood, while durable, can be more susceptible to deep gouges from severe impacts compared to some advanced synthetic materials. However, for its intended purpose, it performs admirably.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Prairie Hunter stock is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally superior. The rich hardwood grain and smooth finish give the rifle a classic, refined look that many synthetic stocks can’t replicate. It feels substantial in the hand, providing a confident grip.

Ergonomically, the stock promotes a consistent cheek weld, which is crucial for repeatable accuracy. The forend is substantial enough to provide a stable resting point, and the pistol grip offers a comfortable and secure purchase. The integrated sling swivel studs are well-placed and do not interfere with hand placement.

Durability & Maintenance

In terms of durability, this stock is built to last. The hardwood construction is inherently strong and resistant to warping or cracking under normal use. The finish provides a good level of protection against minor abrasions and moisture.

Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning and reapplication of a wood finish if desired. I found no obvious failure points or areas that seem prone to wear and tear, even after consistent use in the field. Its robust build suggests it will endure for many years of active service.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock comes with integrated sling swivel studs, a practical addition that negates the need for immediate aftermarket purchases. While this model itself is a specific fit, Boyds offers a vast range of customization options for their stocks, including different finishes, materials, and inletting for various actions and barrel profiles. This particular stock is designed to mate with the Savage 11 Hog Hunter’s specific action length and barrel contour.

Pros and Cons of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock

Who Should Buy the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock?

This stock is an excellent choice for Savage 11 Hog Hunter owners who are looking to upgrade from a factory synthetic stock or replace an older, worn-out wooden stock. It’s particularly well-suited for hunters and recreational shooters who appreciate the classic aesthetics and robust feel of a hardwood firearm. Those seeking improved stability and a more comfortable shooting experience, especially with heavier barreled rifles, will find great value here.

Individuals who require extreme lightweight materials for ultralight backpacking or those who subject their firearms to highly abrasive environments on a daily basis might consider synthetic alternatives. However, for most users prioritizing durability, aesthetics, and a solid performance upgrade for their Savage 11 Hog Hunter, this stock is a superb option. A good quality rifle sling would be a complementary accessory to take full advantage of the integrated swivel studs.

Conclusion on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Savage 11 Hog Hunter Short Action Blind Mag Bull Barrel Channel Stock is a testament to quality craftsmanship and thoughtful firearm component design. It significantly enhances the handling and aesthetic of the Savage 11 Hog Hunter, offering a blend of traditional appeal and modern functionality. The substantial feel, coupled with the precision fit for bull barrels, translates directly to improved shooting performance.

Considering its price point and the significant upgrade it represents over many factory stocks, the value proposition is undeniable. For any owner of a compatible Savage 11 short action rifle looking for a premium upgrade, I would wholeheartedly recommend this stock. It’s a component that not only performs well but also adds a touch of classic elegance to the firearm, ensuring years of reliable service.