The Savage Mark II FV-SR is a popular choice for rimfire enthusiasts, offering accuracy and affordability. However, many shooters find the factory stock lacking in certain areas, particularly ergonomics and stability. This leads many to seek Savage Mark II FV-SR stock upgrades. This in-depth guide explores various upgrade options, helping you choose the best fit for your needs and shooting style.
Understanding Your Needs: Why Upgrade Your Stock?
Before diving into specific upgrades, consider why you're unhappy with the factory stock. Common complaints include:
- Poor Ergonomics: The factory stock might feel uncomfortable for extended shooting sessions, leading to fatigue and impacting accuracy. This is particularly true for shooters with larger or smaller hands.
- Lack of Adjustability: The lack of adjustable features like cheek rest height and length of pull can hinder proper shooting posture and consistency.
- Limited Stability: The factory stock's material and design might not provide sufficient stability, resulting in less precise shots, especially at longer ranges.
- Aesthetics: Some shooters simply want to improve the look of their rifle.
Top Savage Mark II FV-SR Stock Upgrade Options
Several options exist for upgrading your Savage Mark II FV-SR stock, each offering different benefits and drawbacks.
1. Aftermarket Synthetic Stocks
Many manufacturers offer high-quality synthetic stocks specifically designed for the Savage Mark II FV-SR. These stocks often provide:
- Improved Ergonomics: Contoured designs and textured surfaces enhance grip and comfort.
- Enhanced Stability: Durable materials and reinforced designs offer better rigidity and reduce recoil.
- Increased Adjustability: Some aftermarket stocks include features like adjustable cheek rests and length of pull.
- Variety of Colors and Styles: You can find stocks in various colors and styles to match your personal preference.
Examples: Boyd's Gunstocks, Bell & Carlson, and Richards Microfit offer various options. Consider researching specific models and reading reviews before purchasing.
2. Custom Wooden Stocks
For a truly personalized touch and enhanced aesthetics, consider a custom-made wooden stock. This route offers:
- Unmatched Customization: You can specify the wood type, finish, and even incorporate personalized engravings.
- Superior Aesthetics: High-quality wood stocks offer a classic and elegant look.
- Potentially Improved Stability: Certain wood types, such as walnut or maple, can offer excellent stability.
However: Custom stocks can be significantly more expensive and require a longer lead time.
3. Modular Stock Systems
While less common for the Mark II FV-SR specifically, modular stock systems allow for greater customization and adjustability down the road. These systems typically involve:
- Interchangeable Components: You can swap out components like cheek rests, butt pads, and grip panels to fine-tune the stock to your preferences.
- Adaptability: These systems often allow for future upgrades and modifications.
Note: You may need to adapt the system to fit your specific rifle, potentially requiring additional parts or modifications.
4. Adding Accessories to the Factory Stock
Before investing in a completely new stock, consider modifying the existing one:
- Recoil Pads: Replacing the factory recoil pad with a softer or more contoured one can significantly improve shooting comfort.
- Cheek Risers: Adding a cheek riser can improve cheek weld and consistency, especially for scopes.
- Grip Enhancers: Adding textured grip tape or sleeves can improve your grip on the factory stock.
Case Study: Upgrading to a Boyd's Gunstocks Stock
Let's say a shooter consistently experiences fatigue during longer shooting sessions with their factory stock. After researching, they choose a Boyd's Gunstocks Pro Varmint stock in a comfortable color and with adjustable features. The upgrade results in:
- Improved Comfort: The contoured design and textured surface significantly reduce hand fatigue.
- Increased Accuracy: The improved stability and cheek weld contribute to greater shot consistency.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: The new stock gives the rifle a more modern and personalized appearance.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Savage Mark II FV-SR Stock Upgrade
The best Savage Mark II FV-SR stock upgrade depends entirely on your individual needs, budget, and preferences. Carefully consider your shooting style, comfort requirements, and aesthetic preferences before making a decision. Don't hesitate to research different options, read reviews, and potentially consult with experienced shooters or gunsmiths to find the perfect upgrade for your rifle. Remember, a properly fitted stock can significantly improve your shooting experience and accuracy.