Was the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 64 Clip Feed Factory Barrel Channel Stock the Right Choice?
When you’re looking to enhance a firearm, selecting the right components can be as critical as choosing the rifle itself. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 64 Clip Feed Factory Barrel Channel Stock presents itself as a significant upgrade for the Savage Model 64 platform. It promises a blend of aesthetics and improved handling, drawing on Boyds’ reputation for quality hardwood craftsmanship.
My Savage 64, while a reliable plinker and decent for introductory marksmanship, had always felt a bit… utilitarian. The factory polymer stock, while functional, lacked the tactile appeal and ergonomic refinement I’d come to appreciate in other firearms. I was seeking a more substantial feel, something that would improve grip and offer a more classic silhouette without compromising the rifle’s inherent accuracy or ease of use.
Upon unboxing, the weight and feel of the hardwood were immediately apparent. It felt solid, a stark contrast to the lightweight plastic it was replacing. The grain pattern was subtle but attractive, hinting at the quality of the material. It offered a first-hand impression of durability and a commitment to traditional craftsmanship.
I had considered other aftermarket stock options, primarily more polymer-based designs that aimed for tactical features. However, the allure of genuine hardwood and the specific “Rimfire Hunter” profile from Boyds felt more aligned with my goal of a comfortable, aesthetically pleasing, and dependable shooting platform. My initial reaction was one of quiet satisfaction, a sense that I was holding something that would genuinely elevate the shooting experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 64 Clip Feed Factory Barrel Channel Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing primarily took place at my local outdoor range and during informal plinking sessions in my backyard. The Savage 64 with the new Boyds stock was used for extended shooting sessions, focusing on accuracy drills and general handling. The conditions varied from a mild, sunny afternoon to a slightly overcast, cooler day, allowing me to gauge its performance in typical shooting environments.
The stock proved intuitive from the outset; there was no steep learning curve. The improved grip texture and the natural feel of the hardwood made it comfortable to shoulder and hold steady. I encountered no significant issues or surprises during this initial phase, which is always a positive sign for any new firearm component.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and hundreds of rounds, this hardwood stock has held up exceptionally well. It continues to provide a solid, comfortable grip, even after prolonged periods on the bench or out in the field. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, warping, or loosening, which speaks volumes about the quality of construction and the hardwood’s resilience.
Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean, and a light application of furniture polish every few months maintains its finish. Compared to the polymer stock it replaced, which could sometimes feel slick when my hands got a little sweaty, this hardwood replacement offers superior tactile feedback. It doesn’t feel like a premium, expensive material, but it’s certainly a significant step up from basic plastic.
Breaking Down the Features of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 64 Clip Feed Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 64 Clip Feed Factory Barrel Channel Stock is constructed from hardwood harvested from old-growth trees, a key feature that immediately differentiates it from typical polymer stocks. It is designed specifically for the Savage Model 64 with a clip feed system and a factory barrel channel, ensuring a precise fit. The stock features a comfortable grip profile, engineered for better shooter ergonomics.
The use of hardwood provides a more substantial feel and can contribute to a slightly more dampened recoil impulse, although this is less pronounced with rimfire cartridges. The factory barrel channel is crucial for ensuring the barrel sits correctly without undue stress, which is vital for maintaining consistent accuracy. This direct fit means no bedding or significant modification is usually required, making installation straightforward.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary function as a rifle stock, this Boyds offering performs admirably. It provides a stable platform for consistent shooting, and the improved ergonomics contribute directly to better accuracy. The grip’s contouring allows for a more natural hand placement, reducing fatigue during longer shooting sessions.
Its main strength lies in its solid construction and comfortable feel. The primary area for potential improvement, though minor, would be in offering slightly more aggressive texturing for extremely wet conditions, but for general use, its grip is more than adequate. It meets and often exceeds expectations for a replacement stock in its price bracket, especially when considering the aesthetic and tactile upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Boyds stock is immediately evident. The hardwood material feels dense and robust, and the finish is smooth and consistent across the surface. The stock possesses a pleasing heft, lending a sense of quality and stability to the firearm.
Ergonomically, the “Rimfire Hunter” design strikes a good balance. The pistol grip offers a comfortable purchase, and the forend is shaped to provide a secure hold. There is a slight learning curve in getting used to the different profile compared to a factory stock, but it is a minor adjustment. Practical design details, like the subtle checkering on the grip, enhance control without being abrasive.
Durability & Maintenance
This Boyds hardwood stock is built for longevity. Under normal use for a rimfire rifle, it should last for decades, potentially outliving the rifle itself. The inherent toughness of hardwood resists minor impacts and abrasions quite well.
Maintenance is incredibly simple; a periodic wipe-down and occasional waxing is all that is needed. There are no complex parts to clean or maintain. Potential concerns would be extreme environmental exposure, like prolonged immersion in water, which could eventually affect the wood finish, but for typical shooting conditions, it is exceptionally durable.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 64 Clip Feed Factory Barrel Channel Stock itself is the primary enhancement, and it does not typically come with additional accessories in the box. However, its design is based on the Savage Model 64, meaning it is compatible with standard Savage Model 64 sling swivel studs if the user chooses to add them.
There are no built-in customization options on the stock itself beyond its inherent design. However, Boyds offers stocks in various wood types and finishes, allowing for aesthetic customization during the initial purchase. The key compatibility here is its direct fit for the specified Savage 64 model.
Pros and Cons of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 64 Clip Feed Factory Barrel Channel Stock
Pros
- Superior Aesthetics: The genuine hardwood construction offers a classic, attractive look that significantly enhances the firearm’s visual appeal.
- Improved Ergonomics: The comfortable grip and well-designed profile lead to a more natural and steady shooting stance, reducing fatigue.
- Enhanced Tactile Feel: The natural texture of the hardwood provides a more secure and pleasant grip compared to synthetic materials, especially in varying conditions.
- Solid Build Quality: Constructed from old-growth hardwood, the stock feels substantial, durable, and built to last.
- Direct Fit: Designed with a factory barrel channel, installation is generally straightforward, requiring minimal to no modification.
Cons
- Weight Increase: The hardwood construction will add a noticeable amount of weight compared to the original polymer stock, which might be a consideration for some users.
- Limited Finish Options: While hardwood is attractive, the available finishes might be less varied than some synthetic stocks, and specific protection might be needed for extreme environments.
Who Should Buy the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 64 Clip Feed Factory Barrel Channel Stock?
This stock is an excellent choice for Savage Model 64 owners who prioritize classic aesthetics and improved handling. It’s perfect for the recreational shooter looking to add a touch of elegance and better ergonomics to their plinker or practice rifle. Home gunsmiths or hobbyists who enjoy upgrading their firearms with quality components will also appreciate the craftsmanship.
Those who should probably skip this stock are users who prioritize absolute lightest weight above all else, as the hardwood will be heavier than the original plastic. Individuals who require a highly tactical or ultra-modern look might also find the traditional hardwood less appealing. A necessary complementary item to consider adding would be sling swivel studs if you plan to mount a sling for easier carry in the field.
Conclusion on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 64 Clip Feed Factory Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 64 Clip Feed Factory Barrel Channel Stock represents a significant upgrade over the factory plastic offering for the Savage Model 64. It successfully blends traditional craftsmanship with functional design improvements, enhancing both the look and the feel of the rifle. The hardwood construction provides a substantial, comfortable grip and a classic aesthetic that many shooters will appreciate.
Considering its price point of $199.99, the value proposition is strong. You’re not just getting a piece of wood; you’re investing in improved shooting ergonomics, increased durability, and a visually appealing firearm. I would absolutely recommend this stock to anyone looking to elevate their Savage Model 64. It transforms the rifle from a basic tool into something more enjoyable and refined to shoot.