Why Consider a Savage Mark II Stock Upgrade?
The factory stock on your Savage Mark II, while functional, might not be the best fit for your individual needs and shooting style. There are several compelling reasons why you might want to swap it out.
One of the primary benefits of a new stock is improved ergonomics. The way a rifle feels in your hands directly impacts your comfort, consistency, and overall shooting experience. Factory stocks are often designed to fit a broad range of users, which means they might not be ideally suited to your body type or preferences.
A new stock can significantly improve adjustability. The ability to customize the stock to your physique is a game changer. Consider these factors:
Length of Pull (LOP)
The distance from the trigger to the buttpad is critical. If the LOP is too short, you’ll be cramped, and if it’s too long, you’ll be stretching uncomfortably. Many aftermarket stocks, including those from Boyds, offer adjustable LOP, allowing you to dial in the perfect fit.
Grip Style
The standard factory grip might not feel the best. Some shooters prefer a more vertical pistol grip, offering better control and leverage, while others prefer the traditional, straighter grip. New stocks come in a range of grip styles, allowing you to select one that feels most natural.
Cheek Piece and Comb Height
Proper cheek weld is crucial for consistent sight alignment. If the comb (the top part of the stock where your cheek rests) is too low, you might have to strain to see through your scope, while a comb that’s too high can be equally problematic. Adjustable cheek pieces, found on many premium stocks, let you set the perfect height for a comfortable and consistent cheek weld.
Beyond comfort, a well-fitted stock can also contribute to enhanced accuracy. Think of the stock as the foundation of your rifle’s accuracy. A stable and secure platform is essential for consistent shot placement.
Bedding Options
Some aftermarket stocks offer options for bedding the rifle’s action. Pillar bedding, which uses metal pillars to create a more rigid connection between the action and the stock, and glass bedding, which uses an epoxy compound to perfectly mold the action into the stock, can drastically reduce vibrations and promote greater accuracy. While not all stock upgrades require bedding, these processes improve consistency.
Stability
A high-quality stock, particularly one made from a rigid material, provides a more stable platform for your Savage Mark II’s action. This reduces the chances of flex or movement during firing, leading to more consistent shot placement.
Vibration Reduction
A well-designed stock can help to dampen vibrations created by the recoil, which contributes to accuracy. This helps reduce any disturbance to your point of aim as you fire.
Finally, upgrading your stock is an excellent way to enhance the aesthetics and personalize your rifle.
Stock Material
Different stock materials offer different looks and feels. Laminate wood, for example, can be incredibly attractive and durable, while other materials offer different advantages.
Color and Finish
You can choose from a wide array of colors, finishes, and patterns to create a rifle that truly reflects your personality.
Overall Look and Feel
A new stock can transform the appearance of your Savage Mark II, giving it a more modern, tactical, or classic look, depending on your preferences.
Boyds Gun Stocks: A Closer Look
Boyds Gun Stocks is a well-established name in the firearms industry, known for providing high-quality, aftermarket stocks for a wide variety of rifles and shotguns. They’ve built a strong reputation for their craftsmanship, vast selection, and commitment to customer satisfaction. Boyds stocks are a popular choice for those looking to improve the performance, comfort, and appearance of their firearms.
Boyds offers several different stock models specifically designed for the Savage Mark II. These stocks are designed to be direct replacements for the factory stock, meaning they should fit your rifle with minimal modification.
Boyds utilizes several key stock materials that contribute to the quality of their product:
Laminated Hardwood
This is a signature Boyds material. The hardwood is laminated together and shaped. This construction provides superior strength, stability, and resistance to warping compared to a single piece of wood. The lamination process also allows for a wide range of colors and patterns.
Other Materials
Some models may incorporate other materials for specific design purposes, but laminated hardwood is a mainstay.
Key Features of Boyds Savage Mark II Stocks
Boyds stocks come with features that set them apart. These attributes cater to the varying needs of shooters and can make a big difference.
The design and construction of a Boyds stock are typically focused on function and aesthetics. Most models are designed to be drop-in replacements, meaning they are engineered to fit the Savage Mark II action without extensive modifications. Boyds also often includes features for improved aesthetics, with the shape and finish options to allow owners to customize their rifles.
Many Boyds models offer adjustable features to fine-tune the fit.
Adjustable Comb
A vital feature for shooters using scopes, the adjustable comb (or cheek piece) allows you to precisely align your eye with the optic.
Adjustable LOP
Extend or shorten the stock to suit your build.
Boyds stocks are generally designed with precise inletting and fit to the Savage Mark II action. This ensures a snug fit, minimizing any movement and contributing to improved accuracy. Careful inletting is critical for the best possible results.
You will usually find hardware and accessories included in your stock purchase. Many models come with sling swivel studs. Some models might have a pre-installed recoil pad.
Benefits of a Boyds Stock for Your Savage Mark II
There are several advantages that can come with using a Boyds stock. They can make a big difference to how you feel and perform.
Improved Accuracy Potential
A Boyds stock, due to its solid construction and precise inletting, can contribute to greater accuracy. The stable platform reduces vibrations and movement during firing.
Enhanced Ergonomics and Comfort
The customizability of the stock allows you to dial in the perfect fit. This provides enhanced comfort during extended shooting sessions and makes you feel more in control.
Increased Customization Options
Boyds offers a vast selection of colors, finishes, and stock styles. This lets you personalize your Savage Mark II to reflect your individual taste.
Durability and Longevity
Boyds stocks, especially those made from laminated hardwood, are known for their durability. This can handle the rigors of both range use and field conditions.
Value for the Money
While not the cheapest option, Boyds stocks provide a great value for their quality and features. They represent a worthwhile investment for improving your rifle.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
While Boyds stocks offer many advantages, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider.
The installation process is relatively straightforward, but the level of skill can vary. For drop-in models, installation might only require basic tools and some elbow grease. Some advanced users might want to perform some minor refinements. For the best possible results, carefully follow the instructions and consider consulting a gunsmith if you’re not comfortable with any part of the process.
The weight of some Boyds stocks might be slightly more than the factory stock. This is especially true of stocks made from dense materials. If weight is a primary concern, choose a lightweight stock or model.
The cost of a Boyds stock is typically more than the factory stock. However, remember that you are getting a significant upgrade in terms of features, materials, and potential performance. It’s a worthwhile investment for many shooters.
Compatibility is a crucial factor. Ensure that the Boyds stock you choose is compatible with your specific Savage Mark II model (e.g., barrel contour, magazine type). Double-check the specifications and product descriptions carefully before ordering.
Comparison: Boyds vs. Other Stock Options
Boyds faces competition from other manufacturers. You might be interested in these brands.
Magpul
Known for their durable polymer stocks.
Hogue
Offers various rubber-coated and synthetic stocks.
Boyds sets itself apart with the vast number of choices and customization options. They use high-quality materials. Their focus is providing a high-quality wood stock for your Savage Mark II.
Reviews and User Feedback
Customer reviews consistently praise the quality, fit, and finish of Boyds stocks. Many users report significant improvements in accuracy and comfort. Positive feedback often highlights the ease of installation and the attractive appearance of the stocks.
Some users also note the durability of the stocks. The robust materials and construction techniques used by Boyds withstand the rigors of use.
Conclusion
Upgrading the stock on your Savage Mark II is a worthwhile investment that can significantly improve its performance, comfort, and appearance. Boyds Gun Stocks offers a compelling solution for shooters looking for a high-quality, customizable, and durable stock. With a vast selection of models, materials, and finishes, Boyds provides a great opportunity to tailor your rifle to your specific needs and preferences.
Final Recommendation: If you’re serious about enhancing your Savage Mark II, Boyds is a strong contender. They provide a solid value for the price and offer features and materials that enhance a rifle. Explore their different models. With a wide range of choices, it can be a simple choice.
Call to Action: Are you ready to elevate your shooting experience? Research the range of Boyds Gun Stocks available for the Savage Mark II. You’ll find the perfect stock to transform your rifle into the ultimate plinking, target shooting, or varmint hunting machine.
