Everything You Need to Know About the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 93E MKII Bull Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 93E MKII Bull Barrel Channel Stock represents a significant upgrade for rimfire enthusiasts looking to enhance their Savage 93E MKII or similar models. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, a name synonymous with quality firearm furniture, offers a product designed to marry aesthetics with practical functionality for a truly refined shooting experience. My own journey to this particular stock was spurred by a desire to improve the handling and visual appeal of a trusty, yet somewhat utilitarian, Savage 93E MKII that was primarily used for plinking and light pest control. The original factory stock, while serviceable, lacked the tactile feel and solid balance I was after. I briefly considered a few synthetic alternatives, but their often sterile feel and perceived lack of character didn’t quite appeal to my preference for more traditional materials. From the moment I unboxed this Boyds stock, there was an undeniable sense of quality that immediately settled any lingering doubts.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 93E MKII Bull Barrel Channel Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place on my home workbench and then at the local outdoor range. The Savage 93E MKII was stripped down, and the process of fitting the new stock began. Installation was remarkably straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a moderate amount of patience. The barrel channel was precisely machined to accept the bull barrel without any binding or excessive play, a welcome change from some aftermarket parts that can require significant fitting. The stock felt substantial in hand, with a pleasing weight distribution that immediately suggested improved balance once fully assembled. There were no immediate quirks or surprises, just a smooth, almost seamless transition from the old to the new.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of occasional range use and some time spent in a gun safe, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 93E MKII Bull Barrel Channel Stock has held up exceptionally well. It has seen trips to the range in various weather conditions, including light drizzle, and has endured. The Nite-Glint finish has proven surprisingly resilient, showing no signs of premature wear or significant scuffing despite being handled and moved around. Cleaning and maintenance have been minimal; a light dusting and occasional wipe-down with a soft cloth are all that’s needed to keep it looking pristine. Compared to some of the more budget-friendly polymer stocks I’ve encountered, this hardwood option feels far more durable and less prone to the nicks and scratches that can quickly mar lesser materials.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 93E MKII Bull Barrel Channel Stock
Specifications
This Rimfire Hunter stock from Boyds is specifically designed for Savage 93E MKII and compatible bolt-action and LR receivers with a bull barrel channel. It is crafted from certified walnut or American walnut, providing a solid and aesthetically pleasing foundation for your rimfire rifle. The stock features two precisely drilled swivel stud holes, strategically placed for optimal sling attachment, a crucial detail for hunters or those who utilize slings regularly. The Nite-Glint finish offers a subtle sheen that complements the natural beauty of the hardwood without being overly flashy. The Lifetime Warranty provided by Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks further underscores their confidence in the product’s longevity and quality.
The choice of certified walnut or American walnut is not merely cosmetic; it provides a degree of shock absorption and a warm, solid feel that synthetic materials often lack. The precise machining for the bull barrel channel ensures a snug fit, which is critical for maintaining consistent accuracy by preventing barrel harmonics from being negatively affected by a loose stock. The inclusion of two swivel stud holes is a practical touch, offering flexibility in sling mounting positions, whether for carrying or for shooting stability.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of any rifle stock is to provide a stable platform for the action and barrel, and to facilitate accurate shooting. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 93E MKII Bull Barrel Channel Stock excels in this regard. The rigid hardwood construction minimizes flex, and the perfectly machined barrel channel ensures that the bull barrel is properly supported, contributing to improved shot-to-shot consistency. The stock’s design promotes a natural point of aim, making it comfortable and efficient to bring the rifle to bear.
Its main strength lies in the superior feel and balance it imparts compared to factory plastic stocks. The weight distribution is notably improved, making the rifle feel more substantial and less “whippy” during aiming. The only minor area for potential improvement, which is inherent to hardwood stocks, is their susceptibility to significant environmental moisture changes over extended periods, though the Nite-Glint finish does offer a good degree of protection. For its intended purpose of enhancing a rimfire rifle’s handling and appearance, it performs admirably.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Rimfire Hunter stock is both classic and functional. It features a traditional hunting rifle silhouette, with a well-proportioned pistol grip that offers a comfortable and secure hold, even with gloved hands. The forend is substantial enough to provide a stable resting point on sandbags or other supports, and it is ideally shaped for a bull barrel. The Nite-Glint finish provides a smooth, durable surface that feels pleasant to the touch, and importantly, does not become excessively slippery when damp.
The ergonomics are excellent for its intended use. The comb height is appropriate for most standard rimfire scopes, allowing for a good cheek weld without excessive strain. The overall feel is one of solid craftsmanship, with no rough edges or poorly fitted components. It strikes a good balance between form and function, giving the rifle a distinguished look without sacrificing practical usability in the field or at the range.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience and the reputation of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, this stock is built for longevity. Hardwood, especially when properly treated and finished, is inherently durable. While it’s not indestructible, it’s certainly more robust than many common plastic alternatives against impacts and general wear. The Nite-Glint finish adds another layer of protection against minor abrasions and environmental factors.
Maintenance is pleasantly straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a soft, dry cloth after handling is usually sufficient to remove fingerprints and dust. For deeper cleaning or if the stock becomes exposed to more significant dirt, a slightly damp cloth followed by a dry one works well. Wood will always require a bit more care than plastic, but the minimal effort required for this stock makes it a manageable task. I haven’t encountered any specific failure points, and the materials suggest it will last for many years of regular use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 93E MKII Bull Barrel Channel Stock comes with a significant built-in feature: the two pre-drilled swivel stud holes. These are ready to accept any standard sling swivel, making it immediately compatible with a wide range of hunting or tactical slings. Beyond that, the stock itself is designed as a primary component, not a platform for extensive accessory mounting. However, it is crafted to the precise specifications required to fit Savage 93E MKII actions, ensuring compatibility with existing rifle components like trigger guards and action screws.
While Boyds doesn’t offer additional integrated accessory rails on this specific model, their commitment to quality hardwood construction means it provides a solid foundation. If you were looking to add accessories, you would typically do so via the scope mount system and potentially through aftermarket sling attachments that utilize the provided studs. The primary “customization” comes from the inherent beauty of the wood grain and finish itself, which is a significant aesthetic upgrade over most factory offerings.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 93E MKII Bull Barrel Channel Stock
Pros
- Exceptional Material Quality: Crafted from certified walnut or American walnut, offering a premium look and feel.
- Precise Fitment: Designed specifically for Savage 93E MKII bull barrel channel, ensuring a snug and accurate fit.
- Improved Ergonomics: Enhanced grip and balance contribute to a more natural and stable shooting platform.
- Durable Nite-Glint Finish: Provides a protective and aesthetically pleasing surface that resists wear.
- Integrated Swivel Studs: Includes two precisely placed swivel stud holes for easy sling attachment.
- Lifetime Warranty: A testament to the manufacturer’s confidence in the product’s durability and quality.
- Significant Aesthetic Upgrade: Transforms the appearance of a basic rimfire rifle into something truly handsome.
Cons
- Wood’s Inherent Properties: While durable, wood can be more susceptible to extreme moisture and impact damage than high-end synthetics.
- Limited Accessory Mounting: This stock is focused on core rifle functionality and does not feature integrated accessory rails.
- Price Point: At $199.99, it represents a significant investment for a rimfire rifle, though justified by its quality.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 93E MKII Bull Barrel Channel Stock?
This stock is an ideal choice for rimfire rifle owners who own a Savage 93E MKII or a compatible model with a bull barrel and are looking to significantly upgrade the rifle’s aesthetics and handling. It’s perfect for shooters who appreciate the traditional feel and beauty of hardwood furniture on their firearms, whether for hunting, pest control, or serious target practice. If you want your reliable plinking rifle to look and feel like a premium firearm, this is an excellent investment.
Anyone looking for a highly tactical rifle stock with extensive accessory mounting capabilities might need to look elsewhere. Those on a very tight budget who are satisfied with basic functionality would also likely find this stock an unnecessary expense. For those who appreciate the classic, robust feel of wood and want to enhance their Savage rimfire’s performance and visual appeal, this stock is a fantastic option.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 93E MKII Bull Barrel Channel Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Rimfire Hunter Savage 93E MKII Bull Barrel Channel Stock is a superb upgrade that delivers on its promises of improved aesthetics and enhanced handling. The quality of the hardwood, the precise machining, and the durable finish all contribute to a product that feels every bit as good as it looks. For the price of $199.99, you are getting a piece of craftsmanship that transforms a utilitarian firearm into something truly special, backed by a lifetime warranty that provides peace of mind. I wholeheartedly recommend this stock to any Savage 93E MKII owner who wants to elevate their rifle with a touch of classic elegance and tangible performance improvement. It’s a worthwhile investment for anyone who values quality, tradition, and a superior shooting experience.