The Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116: Is It Really That Good?
As someone who’s spent over a decade putting gear through its paces in everything from dusty workshops to unforgiving outdoor environments, I’m always on the lookout for components that offer tangible improvements. My trusty Savage 110, a rifle that’s seen its fair share of use, was still wearing its original factory stock. While serviceable, it lacked the precision fit and recoil management I craved, especially after a day spent at the range. This led me to the Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116. Hogue is a name synonymous with robust, well-made firearm accessories, and the promise of a pillar-bedded, synthetic stock that would conform precisely to my rifle action was compelling. My initial impression upon opening the package was positive; the Ghillie Green finish looked surprisingly appealing, and the material felt substantial and grippy. While I briefly considered other aftermarket options, none offered the specific pillar-bedding system that Hogue champions for this particular Savage action. This replacement promised a more stable platform, and frankly, after wrestling with the limitations of the old stock, the prospect of a more precise fit offered a welcome sense of relief.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 to the Test
First Use Experience
My primary testing ground for this Hogue stock was the familiar environment of my backyard range, extending to longer sessions at a local outdoor club. The goal was to see how this stock performed under repeated firing and in varying light conditions, mimicking typical range days. I specifically wanted to assess how the recoil absorption felt over extended shooting, and if the “precise fit” translated to consistent accuracy. Installation itself was straightforward, though I did encounter minor fitting adjustments as noted by other users – nothing a bit of filing couldn’t solve. The intuitive nature of its design meant I didn’t need extensive familiarization; it felt natural to grip and shoulder immediately. A pleasant surprise was how the synthetic material handled the slight dampness from morning dew on the range bench, maintaining its grippy texture without becoming slick.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, approximately one weekend a month at the range and some practice sessions in between, the Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 has proven its mettle. It has held up remarkably well with no discernible cracks, stiffness, or performance degradation. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and a bit of soap is usually sufficient, and the material resists collecting debris. Compared to the flimsy factory stock it replaced, this Hogue offers a night-and-day difference in rigidity and feel. While it doesn’t possess the premium heft of a finely finished walnut stock, its practical durability and consistent performance easily surpass budget alternatives.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116
Specifications
The Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 is constructed from Hogue’s proprietary Cobalt polymer, known for its durability and shock-absorbing qualities. A key feature is the aluminum bosses integrated at critical mounting points. These bosses ensure a secure and stable connection between the stock and the rifle action, preventing the common issue of a stock “shooting loose” over time. The stock is designed for Savage Model 110, 111, 114, and 116 long actions, providing a precise fit that cradles the rifle’s barreled action. The included color, Ghillie Green, offers a subtle yet effective aesthetic that blends well in various environments. This pillar bedding system is designed to eliminate the flex and variance often found in traditional bedding, leading to more consistent shot placement.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of this stock is to provide a stable and accurate platform for the Savage rifle action. It excels at this, offering a significant upgrade over many factory stocks. The pillar bedding system genuinely improves accuracy by ensuring the action is consistently seated. I observed a noticeable reduction in felt recoil, which allowed for quicker follow-up shots and less shooter fatigue during long range sessions. The stock’s design effectively absorbs recoil energy without negatively impacting the rifle’s harmonics, a crucial factor for consistent accuracy. Its ability to conform to the rifle action means that when properly bedded (or as bedded as this stock allows), it provides a solid lock-up that doesn’t shift.
Design & Ergonomics
Hogue’s design philosophy is evident in this stock’s ergonomics. The synthetic material provides an excellent grip, even with gloved hands or when slightly damp. The textured surfaces are strategically placed to offer secure hand placement without being abrasive. The forend offers a comfortable width for resting on bags or shooting sticks, and the pistol grip is sculpted to promote a natural hand position. The overall build quality feels robust; it’s designed to withstand the rigors of field use and the workshop without complaint. Even minor adjustments needed during fitting revealed solid construction underneath the surface.
Durability & Maintenance
The Cobalt polymer used in this stock is exceptionally durable, designed to resist impact, chemicals, and extreme temperatures. I’ve yet to see any signs of cracking or degradation after extensive use. Maintenance is refreshingly simple, typically requiring just soap and water to clean. The design avoids intricate crevices where dirt and grime can accumulate excessively, making it a low-maintenance option. Unlike wood stocks that can warp or require refinishing, this synthetic offers a worry-free ownership experience. Potential concerns might arise if subjected to extreme, prolonged direct heat which could potentially affect the polymer, but within typical operational parameters, it’s built to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 comes as a standalone component, meaning there are no integrated accessories like bipod mounts or sling swivels included directly with the stock itself. However, it is designed to accept standard sling swivel studs, allowing for the attachment of popular accessories like shooting slings or QD bipods. The compatibility with standard Savage action screws ensures a straightforward installation process. While no specialized Hogue accessories are bundled, its design allows for easy integration with most common rifle accessories that mount to a stock’s forend or rear sling stud.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116
Pros
- Pillar bedding system provides superior action-to-stock contact for improved accuracy.
- Recoil-absorbing synthetic rubber construction significantly reduces felt recoil.
- Aluminum bosses at mounting points ensure a secure and durable connection.
- Ergonomic design with excellent grip provides comfortable and stable handling.
- Rugged construction built to withstand harsh environments and repeated use.
Cons
- May require minor fitting adjustments for some rifle models or years.
- No integrated accessories like sling swivel studs or bipod mounts included.
- The Ghillie Green color might not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences.
Who Should Buy Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116?
This Hogue stock is an excellent choice for owners of Savage Model 110, 111, 114, and 116 long action rifles who are seeking a significant upgrade in accuracy and recoil management. It’s particularly well-suited for those who engage in frequent range shooting, hunting, or any activity where consistent shot placement and shooter comfort are paramount. Hobbyists looking to enhance their rifle’s performance without a complete custom build will find this stock a valuable addition. Those who should consider alternatives might be individuals seeking a purely aesthetic upgrade or those who require a stock with advanced built-in features for specialized shooting disciplines not directly supported by this model’s design. For those purchasing, a standard sling swivel stud is a highly recommended accessory to maximize the stock’s versatility for hunting and field use.
Conclusion on Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116
The Hogue Pillar Bed Shotgun Stock for Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 delivers on its promises, offering a substantial improvement over factory offerings for compatible Savage rifles. Its pillar bedding system and recoil-absorbing material work in concert to enhance both accuracy and shooter comfort, making it a practical and effective upgrade. The $135.96 price point represents excellent value for the performance gains and build quality provided by Hogue. While some minor fitting might be necessary depending on the specific rifle, the overall benefit to rifle stability and shooting experience is undeniable. I would wholeheartedly recommend this stock to any Savage 110-series long action owner looking for a more dependable and comfortable shooting platform that’s built to last. It’s a smart investment that transforms a good rifle into a great one.