The Savage 220 is a popular and reliable .223 Remington bolt-action rifle known for its accuracy and affordability. Many shooters find that upgrading the stock significantly improves the rifle's ergonomics, aesthetics, and overall shooting experience. One popular upgrade is swapping the factory stock for a Boyds stock. This article delves into the benefits of pairing a Savage 220 with a Boyds stock, exploring various aspects of this upgrade.
Why Choose a Boyds Stock for Your Savage 220?
Boyds stocks are renowned for their quality, customization options, and relatively affordable price point. They offer a significant upgrade over the standard Savage 220 factory stock in several key areas:
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Improved Ergonomics: Boyds stocks often feature better ergonomics, providing a more comfortable and secure grip. This leads to improved accuracy and reduced fatigue during extended shooting sessions. Many Boyds models offer adjustable features like comb height, allowing for a perfect cheek weld.
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Enhanced Aesthetics: Boyds offers a wide range of stock styles and finishes, allowing you to personalize your Savage 220 to match your individual preferences. From classic walnut to modern synthetic materials and even camouflage patterns, there's a Boyds stock to suit every taste.
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Increased Accuracy Potential: A well-fitting stock can contribute significantly to improved accuracy. By providing a stable and consistent shooting platform, a Boyds stock helps minimize shooter error and maximize the potential accuracy of your Savage 220.
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Durability and Material Selection: Boyds uses high-quality materials in their stocks, resulting in durable and long-lasting products. They offer options in hardwood, laminated wood, and durable synthetic materials, each offering unique advantages in terms of weight, weather resistance, and overall performance.
Choosing the Right Boyds Stock for Your Savage 220
Boyds offers various stock models compatible with the Savage 220. Before purchasing, carefully consider the following factors:
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Material: Wood stocks offer classic aesthetics and a warm feel, but require more care and maintenance. Synthetic stocks are more durable, weather-resistant, and require less maintenance. Laminated stocks provide a balance of both aesthetics and durability.
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Finish: Choose a finish that complements your personal style and provides the level of protection you need. Oil finishes offer a natural look but require occasional maintenance, while other finishes offer greater durability and protection against the elements.
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Style: Boyds offers a diverse range of stock styles, from traditional hunting stocks to more tactical styles. Consider the intended use of your rifle when selecting a stock style.
Installation Process: Swapping the Stock
Installing a Boyds stock on a Savage 220 is generally a straightforward process, but it requires some basic gunsmithing skills. Here's a general overview:
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Safety First: Always unload the firearm and verify that the chamber is clear before commencing any work.
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Remove the Existing Stock: Carefully remove the action screws holding the factory stock in place. Consult your Savage 220 owner's manual for detailed instructions.
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Install the New Stock: Carefully align the Boyds stock with the action and secure it using the appropriate screws. Ensure that the action is properly bedded in the stock for optimal accuracy.
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Test Fit: Before tightening the screws completely, test the fit of the action to ensure everything aligns properly.
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Final Tightening: Once the fit is confirmed, tighten the screws to the manufacturer's specified torque.
Case Study: Improved Accuracy with a Boyds Stock
Many shooters report significant improvements in accuracy after installing a Boyds stock on their Savage 220. One example is a shooter who consistently experienced groups of 2 inches at 100 yards with the factory stock. After installing a Boyds Pro Varmint stock, the shooter's groups shrunk to under an inch, a 50% improvement in accuracy. This demonstrates the potential for a significant upgrade in performance with a properly fitted stock.
Conclusion: Enhancing Your Savage 220 with a Boyds Stock
Upgrading your Savage 220 with a Boyds stock is a popular and effective way to improve the rifle's ergonomics, aesthetics, and accuracy. The wide range of styles, materials, and finishes allows for considerable customization, resulting in a rifle tailored to your individual preferences and shooting style. By carefully selecting the appropriate stock and following proper installation procedures, you can significantly enhance your overall shooting experience with your Savage 220. Remember to prioritize safety and consult your owner's manual and other resources when performing any modifications to your firearm.