Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Centerfire Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock Review

Here’s What I Think of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Centerfire Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

After years spent in environments ranging from dusty workshops to pristine labs and unpredictable field conditions, I’ve developed a keen eye for equipment that not only performs but endures. My search for a replacement stock for a Winchester Model 670 long action, specifically one that could handle precision shooting without the added complexity of a floor plate, led me to the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Centerfire Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock. The need was driven by a desire for a more stable shooting platform for benchrest accuracy, and my existing stock, while functional, lacked the rigidity and modern profile I was seeking. Initial impressions upon unboxing this particular Boyds offering were positive; the wood felt solid, the finish was consistent, and the overall heft suggested a robust construction. While I briefly considered a few other synthetic stock options, their perceived lack of tactile warmth and classic appeal steered me back to a traditional wood laminate. My immediate feeling was one of anticipation, a quiet satisfaction that I might have found the right piece to bring new life to an old rifle.

Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Centerfire Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test

First Use Experience

My primary testing ground for this stock was a dedicated shooting bench at my local range, where precise aiming and shot consistency are paramount. I carefully bedded the Winchester 670 action into the new Boyds Pro Varmint stock, a process that, thanks to the factory barrel channel, was surprisingly straightforward. The black textured paint finish offered a reassuringly non-slip grip, even with slightly damp hands from an early morning dew.

Performance under sustained fire was excellent; the added weight and stable platform significantly reduced felt recoil and allowed for much tighter shot groups than my previous stock. I experienced no issues with heat buildup around the barrel, even after a session of rapid firing. The ergonomics were immediately comfortable, requiring no significant adjustment period.

My only minor surprise was the slight difference in inletting around the tang area, which required a touch of minor sanding to achieve a perfect flush fit. This is common with aftermarket stocks, and the ease with which it was addressed speaks to the overall quality of the product.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months and numerous range days, this Boyds stock has proven to be exceptionally reliable. It has consistently provided a stable and repeatable platform for precision shooting, becoming an integral part of my long-range setup.

Durability has been impressive; despite being transported in a rifle case and subjected to varying temperatures, there are no visible signs of cracks, warping, or degradation in the wood laminate or its textured finish. The factory barrel channel has remained precisely dimensioned, ensuring consistent barrel alignment with every mounting.

Maintenance has been minimal, involving little more than an occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dust or powder residue. The black textured paint is also quite forgiving, hiding minor scuffs that might be more noticeable on a glossy finish. Compared to the older, standard Winchester stock it replaced, this Pro Varmint model offers a tangible upgrade in stability and a significant reduction in shooter fatigue.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Centerfire Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

Specifications

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Centerfire Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is crafted from laminated hardwood, chosen for its inherent strength and stability. This particular model is designed specifically for the Winchester Model 670 centerfire rifles with a long action. A defining feature is the no floor plate design, which contributes to a cleaner profile and simplifies the bedding process.

The stock boasts a factory barrel channel, meaning it’s precisely pre-cut to accommodate standard factory-profile barrels for the Model 670, reducing the need for extensive custom inletting. It’s finished with a durable black textured paint, providing excellent grip and resistance to the elements. This Pro Varmint configuration is known for its tactical-style forend and adjustable length of pull capabilities, though this specific listing refers to the fixed, standard configuration. The weight of the stock adds a beneficial mass to the rifle, aiding in recoil mitigation.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of this stock is to provide a stable and accurate shooting platform, and in this regard, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Centerfire Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock excels. The laminated hardwood construction offers superior rigidity compared to traditional wood stocks, minimizing flex under stress and ensuring consistent barrel-to-stock contact. This translates directly into improved shot-to-shot consistency, especially noticeable when shooting from a rested position.

Its strengths lie in its inherent stability and the textured finish, which provides a secure grip in various conditions. The absence of a floor plate also means less chance of accidental magazine release or structural weakness in that area. One minor area where it could be improved is the availability of more extensive customization options within this specific variant, such as adjustable cheek pieces, which are typically found on higher-end models. However, for its intended purpose as a high-performance, non-adjustable stock, it meets and often exceeds expectations.

Design & Ergonomics

The Pro Varmint design prioritizes a functional and modern aesthetic, moving away from traditional hunting stock profiles. The forend is relatively broad and flat, offering a stable base for bipods or sandbags, a crucial feature for varmint hunting or benchrest shooting. The black textured paint isn’t just for grip; it also provides a subtle, matte finish that reduces glare, which is appreciated during extended shooting sessions.

Ergonomically, the stock feels substantial and well-balanced. The pistol grip has a comfortable palm swell that promotes a natural hand position, reducing shooter fatigue during longer engagements. While this model does not feature an adjustable comb, the fixed height of the comb in conjunction with the factory barrel channel works harmoniously with standard scope mounts, allowing for a solid cheek weld. The overall build quality feels robust, with no discernible gaps or imperfections where the stock meets the action.

Durability & Maintenance

The laminated hardwood construction is inherently durable and resistant to common environmental factors like humidity changes, which can cause traditional wood stocks to warp or crack. This makes the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Centerfire Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock a reliable choice for various climates. The black textured paint is exceptionally tough, resisting scratches and wear from regular use, including being dragged over rough surfaces or leaned against obstacles.

Maintenance is commendably simple. A quick wipe-down with a slightly damp cloth followed by a dry one is usually sufficient to keep it clean. For deeper cleaning, a mild wood cleaner can be used, but it’s rarely necessary unless subjected to significant grime. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points or common issues with this type of stock; its design is straightforward and built for resilience.

Accessories and Customization Options

While this specific Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Centerfire Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock is configured for a fixed setup, Boyds offers a wide range of customization options for their stocks, often including features like adjustable cheek pieces and length-of-pull spacers. However, for this particular model, the main “accessory” is the stock itself, designed to integrate seamlessly with the Winchester Model 670 action and a factory barrel channel.

Compatibility with common shooting accessories is excellent. The broad forend readily accepts most standard bipod mounts, and the stock’s dimensions ensure it fits well into most rifle bags and cases. For those looking to further customize their rifle, the stock serves as an ideal foundation for adding aftermarket triggers, scopes, and other enhancements to the Winchester 670 action.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Centerfire Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Centerfire Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock?

This stock is an excellent choice for owners of the Winchester Model 670 long action who are looking to enhance accuracy and stability for precision shooting disciplines, such as varmint hunting, benchrest shooting, or general target practice. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate the feel and durability of wood laminate but want a more modern, tactical-style profile. Individuals seeking to replace a damaged or worn original stock with a more robust and higher-performing alternative will also find this model highly beneficial.

Those who should perhaps look elsewhere might be shooters primarily focused on extremely lightweight hunting rifles where every ounce matters, or those who absolutely require an adjustable comb or length of pull out of the box. If you prioritize pure tactical aesthetics with extensive accessory mounting rails, other stock types might be more suitable, though this stock readily accepts bipods. For maximizing the potential of a Winchester 670 for accurate shooting, this Boyds stock is hard to beat.

Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Centerfire Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Pro Varmint Centerfire Winchester 670 No Floor Plate Long Action Factory Barrel Channel Stock represents a significant upgrade for any Winchester Model 670 owner serious about improving their rifle’s accuracy and handling. Its robust construction, stable platform, and durable finish make it a highly reliable component for demanding shooting applications. While it lacks the adjustability found in some higher-end or synthetic stocks, its solid performance, ease of installation, and classic yet functional design offer exceptional value at its price point. For the discerning shooter who values stability, durability, and a tangible improvement in shooting performance, I would readily recommend this stock. It’s a smart investment that breathes new life and enhanced capability into a proven rifle action.