Putting the Hogue Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 Top Loading Box Mag Long Action Standard Barrel Pillar Bed Stock OD Green 11205 Through Its Paces
My pursuit of a more robust and weather-resistant stock for my aging Savage rifle led me to the Hogue Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 Top Loading Box Mag Long Action Standard Barrel Pillar Bed Stock OD Green 11205. After over a decade immersed in the demanding environments of outdoor adventures, workshop projects, laboratory work, and field operations, I’ve learned to appreciate gear that not only performs but endures. The original wooden stock on my rifle, while classic, was showing its age and lacked the tactile grip I desired for slippery conditions. I was specifically looking for something lighter, more durable, and with a better feel in the hand, especially for damp weather hunting. While I briefly considered some more obscure, custom aftermarket options, their cost and lead times quickly made them impractical. The promise of Hogue’s renowned synthetic stock technology, combined with the pillar bedding and OD green finish, felt like a significant upgrade. My initial impression upon receiving it was positive; the OD green color is deep and functional, and the material felt solid without being overly heavy.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 Top Loading Box Mag Long Action Standard Barrel Pillar Bed Stock OD Green 11205 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of this Hogue stock took place right in my home workshop, followed by a trip to a local outdoor range. The installation process was straightforward, fitting the Savage action into the pillar-bedded stock with relative ease. I noted that the fore-end did make slight contact with the barrel on the left side, a minor point that still represented a significant improvement over the original, looser wooden stock. The material’s inherent tackiness provided a much more secure grip, even when my hands were slightly slick with workshop oils.
During extended use, I’ve taken this rifle, now sporting the new Hogue stock, on several hunting trips in the Pacific Northwest, a region known for its persistent dampness. The stock has performed admirably, offering a reliable purchase regardless of rain or fog. It has also endured the usual bumps and scrapes that come with navigating dense underbrush, far better than its predecessor ever could. The pillar bedding has maintained its integrity, ensuring consistent action-to-stock contact.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several seasons of use, the Hogue Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 Top Loading Box Mag Long Action Standard Barrel Pillar Bed Stock OD Green 11205 continues to impress with its resilience. There are no visible cracks, the rubber grip remains tacky without becoming overly sticky, and the pillar bedding has not shown any signs of loosening or shifting. Cleaning is a simple matter of wiping it down with a damp cloth or mild cleaner, and storage is as straightforward as any rifle stock. Compared to some other synthetic stocks I’ve handled, this one feels more substantial and less prone to that hollow, cheap plastic feel. Its performance has consistently met my expectations for a quality upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 Top Loading Box Mag Long Action Standard Barrel Pillar Bed Stock OD Green 11205
Specifications
This Hogue stock is designed specifically for Savage long-action rifles, accommodating models 110, 111, 114, and 116 that feature a top-loading box magazine and a standard barrel profile. Its most prominent feature is the over-molded rubber grip, which is integrated into the synthetic stock body. This construction offers a superior tactile feel and enhanced grip compared to traditional wood or hard plastic stocks. The stock also boasts pillar bedding, a system where rigid pillars are embedded into the stock to provide a precise and solid interface between the rifle’s action and the stock itself. This precise bedding is crucial for consistent accuracy and prevents action stress that can occur with traditional bedding. The OD Green color is a utilitarian, non-reflective finish ideal for outdoor environments.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of this Hogue stock is to provide a stable and ergonomic platform for a Savage rifle. Its performance in this regard is excellent. The pillar bedding system ensures that the action is securely mounted, which is paramount for maintaining shot-to-shot consistency. This rigidity translates to improved accuracy potential, as it minimizes flex and shifting of the barreled action within the stock. The over-molded grip excels at providing a secure hold, even in adverse weather conditions, significantly enhancing control during the shooting process.
While the overall performance is strong, one minor point of contention arose for another user: a specific Savage 110 .270 Win was reported to have fitment issues, particularly with accommodating the blind magazine and experiencing bolt binding when the action was fully tightened onto the pillars. This suggests that while generally compatible, slight variations in Savage actions might require minor adjustments. The soft, tacky feel of the over-molded rubber, while a benefit for grip, was noted by one user as potentially feeling “cheap” and susceptible to tearing if force is applied incorrectly during modification attempts.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this Hogue stock prioritizes functionality and durability. The OD Green finish is understated and practical, blending well into natural surroundings. The over-molded rubber sections, strategically placed on the pistol grip and forend, offer a warm, comfortable, and secure hold. This is a stark contrast to the often slippery and cold feel of bare synthetic or wood stocks.
Ergonomically, the stock feels substantial and well-balanced when shouldered. The pistol grip angle is comfortable for a variety of shooting positions, and the forend provides a solid resting surface. The pillar bedding, while internal, is a critical design element that contributes significantly to the overall stability and feel of the rifle. The inclusion of a standard barrel channel accommodates most standard contour barrels without issue.
Durability & Maintenance
From my experience and observations, this Hogue stock is built for the long haul. The synthetic stock material is inherently resistant to rot, warping, and insect damage that can plague wooden stocks, especially in humid climates. The over-molded rubber has proven remarkably durable, resisting scuffs and abrasions from regular field use.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth or a mild soap solution is usually sufficient to keep it clean. Unlike traditional bedding that might require glass bedding compounds, the pillar bedding system is a set-and-forget component that requires no special upkeep. Potential long-term concerns might revolve around prolonged exposure to extreme UV radiation, which can degrade polymers over very extended periods, but for typical use, it should last for decades.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular Hogue stock is designed as a direct replacement for specific Savage rifle actions, and as such, it generally does not come with additional accessories. Its primary purpose is to upgrade the existing rifle’s stock. Customization options are limited to the inherent design of the stock itself; there are no built-in accessory rails or interchangeable components.
However, the pillar bedding system ensures a solid foundation that can be a great platform for adding other rifle-specific accessories, such as custom trigger guards or sling swivel studs, if the user chooses to do so. The stock’s design is focused on providing a superior foundational platform rather than extensive modularity.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 Top Loading Box Mag Long Action Standard Barrel Pillar Bed Stock OD Green 11205
Pros
- Superior Grip and Tactile Feel: The over-molded rubber provides an exceptional, non-slip grip, enhancing weapon control in all conditions.
- Improved Accuracy via Pillar Bedding: The pillar bedding system offers a rigid and consistent interface for the rifle action, potentially improving shot stability.
- Enhanced Durability and Weather Resistance: The synthetic construction is robust and far less susceptible to environmental damage than traditional wood.
- Lighter Weight Compared to Wood: This stock is generally lighter than its wooden counterparts, improving the rifle’s handling.
- Functional OD Green Finish: The OD Green color is practical, non-reflective, and suitable for field applications.
Cons
- Potential Fitment Issues: Some specific Savage rifle variations (like a reported Savage 110 .270 Win) might require minor modification due to magazine clearance or bolt binding.
- Soft Over-Molded Rubber: While providing grip, the rubber’s softness could be perceived as less durable by some and might tear if improperly handled during modifications.
- Limited Modularity: The stock is designed as a direct replacement and does not offer integrated accessory rails or extensive customization options.
Who Should Buy Hogue Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 Top Loading Box Mag Long Action Standard Barrel Pillar Bed Stock OD Green 11205?
This stock is an excellent choice for Savage 110, 111, 114, and 116 rifle owners who are looking to upgrade from an older or less durable factory stock. It’s particularly well-suited for shooters who hunt or operate in wet or variable climates and value a secure, positive grip. Anyone seeking to improve their rifle’s handling, weather resistance, and potential accuracy through a solid bedding system will find this a worthwhile investment.
Those who require extensive modularity for attaching numerous accessories directly to their stock might need to consider alternative options with built-in rails. Additionally, if your specific rifle model has a unique action or magazine configuration that deviates significantly from the standard, it would be prudent to research fitment or be prepared for minor adjustments. A quality sling, like a robust nylon or neoprene model, would be a natural companion accessory to complement the stock’s field-oriented design.
Conclusion on Hogue Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 Top Loading Box Mag Long Action Standard Barrel Pillar Bed Stock OD Green 11205
The Hogue Savage 110, 111, 114 & 116 Top Loading Box Mag Long Action Standard Barrel Pillar Bed Stock OD Green 11205 represents a significant upgrade for owners of compatible Savage rifles. Its combination of a superior over-molded rubber grip, effective pillar bedding, and durable synthetic construction delivers a noticeable improvement in handling and potential accuracy. The practical OD Green finish adds to its appeal for serious outdoor use. While there’s a slight caveat regarding potential fitment nuances with specific action variations, and the soft rubber might not appeal to everyone, its overall performance and build quality make it a strong contender. For its price point, this stock offers excellent value, delivering features and durability typically found in more expensive aftermarket options. I would confidently recommend this Hogue stock to any Savage long-action rifle owner seeking a robust, weather-resistant, and ergonomically superior replacement for their current stock.