The Most Honest Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel Review Online
My quest for a more ergonomic and aesthetically pleasing stock for my well-worn Winchester Model 670 began after a particularly frustrating range day. The original stock, while functional, felt dated and didn’t quite accommodate my shooting stance as well as I’d hoped, especially during extended sessions. It was during this search that the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel caught my eye. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks has a solid reputation for quality, and the specific configuration for a left-hand stock with a right-hand action for a Winchester 670 seemed like a perfect, albeit niche, fit. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of genuine craftsmanship; the wood grain was pronounced, and the unfinished surface felt substantial and promising, a stark contrast to some of the utilitarian polymer stocks I’d considered. My primary alternative was a custom inletted piece from a smaller maker, but the lead times and higher cost made this Boyds option a much more practical choice. The immediate feeling was one of anticipation and a quiet satisfaction that a viable, quality solution was finally in hand.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel to the Test
First Use Experience
My first hands-on experience with this stock involved a careful inletting process for my Winchester 670 action, followed by a series of preparatory sanding and finishing stages. I worked on my home workbench, under good lighting, meticulously checking the fitment at every step. The stock held up remarkably well to the initial fitting and subsequent sanding, with no signs of splintering or cracking even in the more intricate areas around the barrel channel. Its factory barrel channel allowed for a very precise fit with my rifle’s original barrel profile, minimizing the need for extensive bedding work. Initially, the rifle felt a bit unwieldy, as any new stock will, but the overall balance shifted in a way that felt more natural for my shooting position. There were no immediate quirks or issues, just a solid, robust feel that suggested a much-improved shooting experience down the line.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, including multiple trips to the range and some time spent afield during hunting season, this stock has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It has endured the bumps and scrapes common to outdoor activities without showing any significant wear. The wood has remained remarkably stable, with no discernible warping or shifting, even after exposure to varying humidity levels. Maintenance is straightforward; a light coat of tung oil and occasional buffing keeps the finish looking excellent and provides an added layer of protection. Compared to the original factory stock, which was prone to scratches and dings, this Boyds piece feels significantly more robust and resilient. Its consistent performance has reaffirmed my confidence in its build quality and material selection.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel is constructed from a select hardwood, typically maple or walnut, offering superior strength and a classic aesthetic. This particular model is designed specifically for Winchester Model 670 rifles featuring a long action and requires no floor plate, simplifying installation. It boasts a left hand stock configuration to accommodate a right hand action, a unique and crucial detail for left-handed shooters who fire from the right. The factory barrel channel is precisely cut to accept standard barrels of the Winchester 670, ensuring a good fit out of the box. The stock is typically sold finished, though some options may be unfinished for custom applications.
These specifications are vital for ensuring proper fit and function. The long action designation means it’s designed for cartridges that require a longer bolt throw, common in many hunting calibers. The specific left-hand stock and right-hand action configuration is a game-changer for left-handed shooters, offering a natural and efficient shooting platform that many generic stocks simply cannot provide. The finished aspect means it’s ready for immediate installation or further customization like checkering or custom bedding.
Performance & Functionality
This stock excels in its primary role: providing a stable and ergonomic platform for a Winchester 670 rifle. The finished hardwood offers a solid bedding surface, which in turn enhances rifle accuracy by minimizing flex and unwanted movement. The inherent weight of the wood stock also helps to dampen recoil, making follow-up shots smoother and quicker. Its primary strength lies in its tailored fit for the specific Winchester action and its left hand stock design, which significantly improves control and comfort for left-handed shooters. A minor area for improvement might be if one desires an ultra-lightweight rifle, as wood stocks inherently carry more weight than modern synthetic options. However, for its intended purpose, its performance is exceptional, easily meeting and often exceeding expectations for a stock in this price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Prairie Hunter stock prioritizes both form and function. The hardwood construction provides a substantial and pleasing feel, far removed from the cold, sterile feel of some synthetic materials. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks has clearly put thought into the ergonomics, with a well-proportioned pistol grip that promotes a natural hand position and a comfortable cheek weld. The overall profile is traditional yet refined, fitting the classic lines of the Winchester rifle beautifully. The factory barrel channel is meticulously shaped, ensuring optimal barrel-to-stock contact. Any learning curve is minimal; the stock feels intuitive, and its design naturally guides the shooter into a stable shooting posture.
Durability & Maintenance
This stock is built for longevity. The select hardwood is inherently durable, and when properly finished and cared for, it can last a lifetime, and beyond. Its resistance to scratching and impact is impressive for a wood product, and it holds up well to the rigors of field use. Maintenance is blissfully simple: an occasional wipe-down with a clean cloth and a reapplication of your preferred wood finish (like tung oil or linseed oil) is usually all that’s needed. I’ve found that reapplying a thin coat of tung oil every six months keeps the stock looking and feeling its best. There are no obvious failure points, but as with any wood product, avoiding prolonged immersion in water or extreme temperature fluctuations is always wise.
Accessories and Customization Options
This specific model for the Winchester 670 typically comes as a standalone stock, meaning accessories are generally not included. However, its strength lies in its compatibility. The factory barrel channel is designed to accept standard Winchester 670 barrels, and the action inletting is precise for that specific model. For those looking to customize, the unfinished variants offer a blank canvas. You can add custom checkering, a recoil pad, or even experiment with different stock finishes to truly make it your own. The key is that this Boyds stock provides an excellent foundation for further personalization, rather than coming pre-loaded with potentially unnecessary extras.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
Pros
- Exceptional fit and finish for the specific Winchester Model 670 Long Action with a right-hand action.
- Unique left hand stock configuration provides superior ergonomics for left-handed shooters.
- Hardwood construction offers superior durability, aesthetics, and recoil absorption compared to synthetic alternatives.
- The factory barrel channel is precisely cut, often minimizing the need for extensive custom bedding.
- Excellent value proposition, delivering premium craftsmanship at a competitive price point.
Cons
- Requires careful installation and potentially minor fitting to achieve a perfect, beddable fit.
- Wood stocks are inherently heavier than modern synthetic options, which might be a consideration for ultra-lightweight builds.
- Accessories are not typically included, meaning items like recoil pads may need to be purchased separately.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel?
This stock is an absolute must-consider for any left-handed shooter who owns or is building a Winchester Model 670 rifle with a long action and a right-hand bolt. If you’re looking to upgrade from a worn or uninspiring factory stock, and desire both improved ergonomics and a classic, beautiful appearance, this is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for hunters, target shooters, or anyone who appreciates the tactile feel and timeless appeal of a well-crafted wooden stock.
Anyone seeking an ultra-lightweight rifle build or a completely synthetic, low-maintenance solution might want to look elsewhere. This stock is for those who value craftsmanship and are willing to put in a bit of effort for a truly personalized and high-performing rifle. I’d highly recommend pairing this stock with a quality recoil pad for maximum comfort, especially if you plan on extensive shooting sessions.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Factory Barrel Channel is, without question, a superb upgrade for the discerning Winchester 670 owner. It delivers on its promise of enhanced ergonomics for left-handed shooters, combined with the undeniable beauty and durability of hardwood. The precise inletting and quality of the wood make it feel like a much more expensive, custom piece. For its price, the value is exceptional, offering a significant improvement in both handling and aesthetics.
I wholeheartedly recommend this stock to any left-handed shooter looking to optimize their Winchester 670. It transforms the rifle into a more comfortable, accurate, and visually appealing firearm, embodying the best of traditional craftsmanship with modern ergonomic considerations. If you fit the profile of a left-handed shooter with a compatible Winchester, investing in this stock is a decision you won’t regret.