What Happened When I Tried the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 700 ADL SA Left Handed Stock Right Hand Action FBC
For years, my Remington 700 ADL in .308 has been a reliable workhorse, but its original stock, while functional, always felt a bit… utilitarian. After years of field use, workshop tinkering, and countless range days, I began to notice the limitations of its factory-appointed plastic. The need for a more substantial, more adaptable platform became apparent, especially as I started considering some minor modifications and a more refined aesthetic. This led me to the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 700 ADL SA Left Handed Stock Right Hand Action FBC.
My primary motivation for seeking a replacement stock was a desire for improved ergonomics and a more classic, robust feel. The factory stock, while lightweight, lacked the heft and solid feel that I prefer for a rifle I might need to handle with less-than-ideal conditions. I considered a few other aftermarket options, including some polymer chassis systems, but ultimately, the allure of traditional hardwood and the specific features offered by Boyds caught my attention. My initial impression upon unboxing this unit was one of solid craftsmanship; the dense hardwood felt substantial, promising a significant upgrade over the hollow plastic I was replacing.
It felt like a step up immediately, a tangible improvement in the rifle’s potential. The weight distribution felt different, more balanced, and the promise of a more classic look was instantly appealing.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 700 ADL SA Left Handed Stock Right Hand Action FBC to the Test
My testing grounds for this stock were varied, reflecting its intended purpose as a replacement for a versatile hunting and range rifle. I fitted the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 700 ADL SA Left Handed Stock Right Hand Action FBC onto my Remington 700 ADL short action (right-hand action, left-hand stock configuration) in my home workshop and then took it out for a series of field exercises. This involved several trips to the local outdoor range, some extended walking through varied terrain, and even a weekend at a friend’s property where we engaged in some informal target shooting at different distances.
The stock performed admirably through these diverse scenarios. At the range, its solid construction provided a stable platform for accurate shooting, absorbing recoil effectively. During long hikes, the hardwood felt natural against my shoulder, and the subtle textural variations of the wood offered a reassuring grip even with gloved hands in damp conditions. I encountered no issues with dust ingress into the action bedding area, and while I didn’t intentionally expose it to heavy rain, light dew and condensation posed no problem to the finished surface.
First Use Experience
The initial fitting process in my workshop was straightforward. The inletting for the factory-tapered barrel channel was exceptionally precise, requiring only minor adjustments to achieve a perfect fit with my rifle’s action. This left-handed stock on a right-hand action meant careful alignment, but the CNC machining from Boyds made it a surprisingly simple task. The blind magazine feature was correctly accommodated, and the overall feel as I bedded the action was one of solid engagement.
I did notice a couple of natural cosmetic imperfections, as Boyds describes them – a small knot in the grain near the comb and a slight burl pattern on the forend. These are, in my opinion, character-building details that speak to the authenticity of a hardwood product. They are purely aesthetic and do not impact structural integrity or function, adding a unique touch to an otherwise mass-produced item.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, this Boyds stock has proven to be incredibly reliable and durable. My Remington 700 now feels like a completely different rifle, much more substantial and reassuring in its handling. I’ve subjected it to repeated mounting and dismounting, and the bedding remains tight, showing no signs of shifting or loosening.
The finish has held up remarkably well against minor scuffs and abrasions encountered in the field; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth usually restores its appearance. Compared to the stock it replaced, the durability is night and day. While budget polymer stocks can sometimes develop stress cracks or warp, the dense hardwood of this Boyds unit seems impervious to such issues. Maintenance is minimal; occasional waxing or a light application of furniture polish keeps the wood protected and looking its best.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 700 ADL SA Left Handed Stock Right Hand Action FBC
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 700 ADL SA Left Handed Stock Right Hand Action FBC is designed with practicality and classic aesthetics in mind. It’s built for the popular Remington 700 platform, specifically for right-handed actions with short actions and blind magazines. The left-handed configuration is a key aspect, catering to left-handed shooters who operate a right-handed action, offering a unique solution for lefties wanting to maintain a right-handed action for parts availability or specific reasons.
Specifications
This particular stock is constructed from hardwood, offering a significant weight and feel advantage over plastic or composite materials. It is inletted for a standard factory tapered barrel channel, a critical detail for ensuring proper barrel clearance and preventing unwanted pressure points. The design is specifically for a Remington 700 ADL SA (Short Action) model, featuring a blind magazine, which means it loads and unloads through the top of the action.
The dimensions and weight are characteristic of a solid hardwood stock, providing a reassuring heft that contributes to improved rifle balance and recoil management. This isn’t a featherweight option, but its density is a feature, not a flaw, in my experience. The nutmeg color offers a warm, classic look that is appealingly traditional, enhancing the rifle’s overall visual appeal.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of raw performance, this Boyds stock excels at providing a stable and consistent platform for my Remington 700. The primary job of a rifle stock is to interface the action with the shooter and the environment, and this unit does so with aplomb. Its rigid construction minimizes any flex during firing, translating into more consistent shot placement, especially for follow-up shots where stock stability is paramount.
The main strength lies in its solid bedding and the predictable way it handles recoil. For a rifle shooter, this translates directly into greater confidence and accuracy. The FBC (Full Bedding Contact) inletting ensures that the action is securely captured, preventing movement that could otherwise degrade accuracy. A minor area for potential improvement, though not a functional detriment, is that the tapered barrel channel might require slight modifications if one were to opt for a heavier, non-standard aftermarket barrel in the future, though it’s perfect for factory profiles.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this Boyds stock leans heavily into traditional craftsmanship, which I find highly appealing. The hardwood construction itself lends a premium feel, and the nutmeg finish gives it a warm, inviting appearance that plastic stocks simply cannot replicate. The CNC inletting ensures a precise fit, which is crucial for any firearm modification.
Ergonomically, the stock offers a comfortable grip and a well-proportioned comb that aligns nicely with my eye for scope usage. The natural grain variations and slight imperfections add a unique character, making each stock subtly different. The left-handed stock configuration for a right-hand action is a clever design choice that accommodates a specific need without compromising the overall form or function.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of a hardwood stock like this is generally superior to many polymer alternatives, especially for prolonged use in varied conditions. I anticipate this stock will last for decades with proper care, resisting the common issues like UV degradation or brittleness that can affect plastics over time. The finish is robust, providing good resistance to moisture and minor abrasion, though like any wood product, it’s not indestructible.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A light cleaning with a soft cloth removes dust and grime, and an occasional waxing or application of a good furniture polish will protect the wood and enhance its luster. There are no complex moving parts or delicate mechanisms to worry about. If any significant damage were to occur, the hardwood itself offers a good surface for professional repair or even DIY refinishing, which is a significant advantage over composite stocks.
Accessories and Customization Options
This specific model, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 700 ADL SA Left Handed Stock Right Hand Action FBC, is a primary component, serving as the foundation for the rifle’s interface. As such, it comes as a standalone stock, designed to accept the existing components of the Remington 700 ADL rifle, such as the blind magazine system. It does not come with separate accessories like swivels or bipod adapters unless specified in a package or added by the end-user.
The beauty of a Boyds stock lies in its compatibility with the Remington 700 action and its existing internal components. While this model is specific to the ADL short action with a blind magazine, Boyds offers a vast array of other stock designs and configurations that allow for extensive customization. For example, one could add sling swivel studs or a recoil pad to this stock if their rifle setup demands it, and such additions are readily available from Boyds or other firearm accessory manufacturers.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 700 ADL SA Left Handed Stock Right Hand Action FBC
Pros
- Superior Build Quality: The use of dense hardwood provides a solid, premium feel far exceeding factory plastic stocks.
- Precise Inletting: The CNC-machined inletting ensures a near-perfect fit for the Remington 700 ADL short action and factory tapered barrel, minimizing fitting work.
- Enhanced Ergonomics: Offers a more comfortable and stable shooting platform, improving accuracy and recoil management.
- Classic Aesthetics: The nutmeg finish and natural wood grain provide a timeless, attractive look to the rifle.
- Durability: Hardwood is inherently more resistant to environmental wear and tear than most plastics, promising long-term reliability.
- Unique Configuration: The left-handed stock for a right-hand action is a niche but highly valuable feature for specific shooters.
Cons
- Weight: While a pro for stability, the hardwood construction is heavier than most synthetic alternatives.
- Requires Minor Fitting: Though inletting is precise, minor fitting may still be required depending on the specific firearm, as stated by the manufacturer.
- Potential for Cosmetic Imperfections: The natural cosmetic imperfections like knots or burls, while adding character, might not appeal to those seeking absolute flawless uniformity.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 700 ADL SA Left Handed Stock Right Hand Action FBC?
This Boyds stock is an excellent choice for owners of the Remington 700 ADL Short Action who are looking to significantly upgrade their rifle’s feel, stability, and aesthetics. It’s particularly well-suited for those who appreciate the classic look and feel of traditional hardwood stocks and desire a more substantial platform for hunting, target shooting, or general use. The left-handed stock, right-hand action configuration is a specific boon for left-handed shooters who are comfortable with or require a right-handed action.
Individuals who prioritize absolute lightweight portability might want to consider other options, as this hardwood stock adds noticeable weight. Those who demand a perfectly uniform, flawless finish might also find the inherent variations in natural wood less appealing. For anyone looking to imbue their Remington 700 with a timeless elegance and a tangible increase in shooting comfort and stability, this stock is a superb investment.
Essential complementary items would include good quality bedding compound if minor adjustments are needed, a suitable torque wrench for reassembly, and perhaps a stock wax or polish to maintain its beautiful finish.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 700 ADL SA Left Handed Stock Right Hand Action FBC
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 700 ADL SA Left Handed Stock Right Hand Action FBC represents a significant upgrade for any Remington 700 ADL owner. It masterfully blends classic woodworking with modern CNC precision, delivering a product that feels both traditional and perfectly suited for today’s discerning shooter. The performance improvements in stability and recoil management are tangible, while the aesthetic transformation is undeniable.
Considering its price point of $199.99, the value proposition is exceptionally strong. You receive a highly durable, beautifully finished hardwood stock with precise inletting that offers a substantial improvement over factory offerings. I would wholeheartedly recommend this Boyds stock to any Remington 700 ADL owner seeking to elevate their rifle’s performance and visual appeal, particularly those who appreciate the unique advantages of its left-handed configuration for a right-hand action. It’s a smart investment that brings classic character and modern functionality to the range and the field.