Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Review

Testing the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Long Action Factory Barrel Channel: What You Need to Know

For those who appreciate the classic lines and robust functionality of the Winchester Model 70, particularly its pre-WWII iterations, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Long Action Factory Barrel Channel represents a compelling upgrade or restoration component. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks is a name synonymous with quality American-made rifle stocks, and this particular offering targets a very specific niche: left-handed shooters who own a right-hand action, long-action Winchester Model 70 from the pre-war era, and who also have the two-piece floor plate configuration. My own journey to this stock began with acquiring a beautiful, albeit somewhat worn, Winchester 70 in a caliber that demanded a precise and classic aesthetic. The original stock, while functional, was showing its age and wasn’t ideally suited for a left-handed shooter like myself. I considered a few other aftermarket options, but none offered the specific combination of features—especially the left-hand configuration for a right-hand action and the pre-64 style—that this Boyds stock promised. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship; the wood felt substantial and the inletting looked promising, sparking a sense of anticipation for its transformation.

Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Long Action Factory Barrel Channel to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing focused on the fitment and feel of the stock on a genuine Winchester Model 70 Pre-64 long action. I meticulously bedded the action into the inletting, which, thanks to the factory barrel channel, was remarkably precise. The process was straightforward, involving standard gunsmithing tools and techniques, and revealed the high quality of the machining. Handling the rifle post-installation, the left-hand orientation immediately felt natural, positioning the bolt release and safety perfectly for my dominant hand.

I took the barreled action, now housed in its new Boyds stock, to a local outdoor range known for its varied shooting conditions, from sunny afternoons to occasional light breezes. The stock performed admirably across different shooting positions, from bench rest to standing. Its weight distribution felt balanced, contributing to a stable shooting platform. There were no immediate surprises or quirks; the stock simply performed as expected, enhancing the overall feel and control of the rifle.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months, this Boyds stock has seen consistent use at the range and during several hunting trips in varied terrain. It has endured dusty conditions, a few unexpected light drizzles, and the general wear and tear of being in and out of rifle cases and prone in the field. The hardwood construction has held up exceptionally well, with no signs of cracking or warping.

The finish, which I opted for in a natural oil, has proven to be surprisingly resilient, though I did reapply a light coat of stock wax after about four months to maintain its luster and water resistance. Cleaning is a simple wipe-down with a soft cloth, and periodic inspections reveal no hidden issues. Compared to some previous polymer or synthetic stocks I’ve used, the durability and tactile feel of this hardwood piece are a significant upgrade. Budget options often feel flimsy or develop rattles over time, whereas this Boyds stock feels like it’s built to last generations, much like the rifle it’s now attached to.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Long Action Factory Barrel Channel

Specifications

This particular Boyds stock is meticulously designed for the Winchester Model 70 Pre-WWII rifle, specifically a Long Action with a right-hand action and a left-hand stock configuration. It features a 2 Piece Floor Plate inletting, which is crucial for proper fitment with the original Winchester bottom metal. The factory barrel channel is precisely machined to accommodate barrels with a standard factory contour, simplifying the installation process.

The stock is crafted from select hardwood, a material chosen for its strength, stability, and aesthetic appeal. While specific weight varies slightly based on the wood density and the chosen finish, these stocks typically add a pleasing heft to the rifle, contributing to a more stable shooting platform. The design prioritizes a classic profile, evoking the feel of original Winchester stocks, but with modern manufacturing tolerances for improved accuracy in fit.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of any rifle stock is to provide a stable and ergonomic platform for the barreled action, and this Boyds model excels in that regard. The left-hand orientation for a right-hand action is not just an aesthetic choice; it genuinely improves manipulation of the bolt, safety, and bolt release for a left-handed shooter. This translates directly to faster follow-up shots and a more comfortable shooting experience, especially when transitioning between targets.

Its key strength lies in its precise inletting, which minimizes the need for extensive bedding work, though some minor adjustments are always recommended for optimal performance. The hardwood construction absorbs recoil effectively, making the rifle more pleasant to shoot, particularly with heavier calibers commonly found in long-action Model 70s. A minor point of consideration for some might be the standard barrel channel; if a rifle has been rebarreled with a significantly heavier or lighter contour, some minor inletting adjustments might be necessary. However, for rifles retaining their original factory barrel profiles, it’s a near-perfect fit.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Long Action Factory Barrel Channel is immediately apparent. The chosen hardwood feels solid and dense, with a grain pattern that, depending on the finish, can be quite attractive. The finish itself, whether it’s a factory-applied oil, lacquer, or a custom option, is typically smooth and offers good protection.

Ergonomically, the Prairie Hunter design strikes a nice balance between a classic hunting stock and a more modern, usable shape. It features a classic rounded comb that provides a comfortable cheek weld for scope use, and the forend is slim enough for a secure grip without feeling overly slender. The pistol grip is well-contoured, offering a natural hand position that aids in trigger control. There is a slight learning curve for those accustomed to more aggressively sculpted or thumbhole stocks, but the transition is generally intuitive.

Durability & Maintenance

This Boyds stock is built for the long haul. Hardwood stocks, especially when properly finished and maintained, can last for decades, if not centuries. Under normal use for its intended purpose as a hunting or sporting rifle stock, significant wear and tear are unlikely to manifest quickly.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A periodic wipe-down with a soft, dry cloth is usually sufficient for dust and grime. For added protection and to maintain a lustrous finish, a good quality stock wax or oil can be applied as needed, typically every few months or after significant exposure to the elements. There are no complex mechanisms or parts to fail, reducing potential failure points to the wood itself or the finish. As with any wooden item exposed to moisture, prolonged submersion or extreme humidity fluctuations without adequate protection could eventually lead to issues, but this is standard for all wood products.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Long Action Factory Barrel Channel is designed to work with the existing two-piece floor plate assembly of the Winchester Model 70. Therefore, the primary “accessory” it integrates with is the rifle’s original bottom metal. Boyds offers a range of factory-applied finishes, from classic oiled walnut to more contemporary lacquers, allowing some degree of personalization.

For further customization, shooters can opt for aftermarket metalwork from companies specializing in Winchester 70 parts if their original floor plate is damaged or if they desire a different aesthetic. While not directly part of the stock, the choice of a scope mount and rings will naturally be influenced by the stock’s design, particularly the comb height for achieving a proper cheek weld. Some users might also choose to add a custom recoil pad if the factory inletting allows for it, though many pre-64 Model 70s originally came with a metal buttplate or a simple hard rubber one.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Long Action Factory Barrel Channel

Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Long Action Factory Barrel Channel?

This stock is ideally suited for left-handed shooters who own a Winchester Model 70 in a long action with a right-hand action and a two-piece floor plate from the pre-WWII era, and who want to improve the ergonomics and aesthetics of their rifle. It’s perfect for collectors looking to restore or enhance a classic firearm, as well as hunters or sport shooters who prefer the feel and performance of a quality hardwood stock and need a left-handed option for their right-handed action. Anyone who appreciates traditional craftsmanship and wants to bring a vintage rifle into modern usability will find this stock to be an excellent choice.

Conversely, this stock would not be suitable for right-handed shooters, owners of short-action Model 70s, or those with rifles featuring a one-piece floor plate or a heavily modified barrel contour that deviates significantly from the original factory profile. Shooters seeking ultra-lightweight, modern synthetic materials or highly adjustable stocks might also look elsewhere. A must-have accessory to consider alongside this stock would be a good quality stock finish wax or oil for ongoing maintenance, and potentially a new set of bedding screws if the original ones are worn.

Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Long Action Factory Barrel Channel

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Prairie Hunter Winchester 70 Pre-Wwii 2 Piece Floor Plate Left Hand Stock Right Hand Action Long Action Factory Barrel Channel is, without question, a superb component for the discerning Winchester Model 70 enthusiast. It delivers on its promise of precise fitment, enhanced ergonomics for left-handed shooters, and the timeless beauty of a well-crafted hardwood stock. The value proposition here is strong; for the price point, you are receiving a meticulously manufactured part that significantly elevates the performance and feel of a classic rifle, often exceeding what one might expect for the investment.

I wholeheartedly recommend this stock to any left-handed shooter who owns the specific variant of the Winchester Model 70 it’s designed for. It’s not just a replacement part; it’s an investment in the longevity and enjoyment of a beloved firearm. If you’re looking to correct an ergonomic mismatch on your vintage Model 70 or simply want to give it a fresh, authentic lease on life with a superior grip, this Boyds stock is an exceptional choice that won’t disappoint.