The Savage 110 is a popular hunting and precision rifle known for its accuracy and affordability. However, many shooters find that upgrading the stock significantly enhances both the rifle's performance and its overall feel. This guide explores the world of Savage 110 aftermarket stocks, helping you choose the perfect upgrade for your shooting needs and preferences.
Why Upgrade Your Savage 110 Stock?
The factory stock on a Savage 110, while functional, often leaves room for improvement. Upgrading offers several key advantages:
- Improved Accuracy: A more rigid and stable stock can significantly reduce vibrations and flex during recoil, leading to improved shot grouping and accuracy. Many aftermarket stocks feature bedding features or are designed for specific chassis systems further enhancing accuracy.
- Enhanced Ergonomics: Factory stocks sometimes lack the adjustability needed for a comfortable and repeatable shooting position. Aftermarket stocks often include features like adjustable cheek rests, length-of-pull adjustments, and more ergonomic grip designs. This improves your shooting posture and reduces fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
- Increased Customization: Aftermarket stocks come in a wide variety of materials, colors, and styles, allowing you to personalize your rifle to match your aesthetic preferences. You can choose from traditional wood stocks, modern synthetic stocks, or even high-tech carbon fiber options.
- Added Functionality: Some aftermarket stocks incorporate features like M-LOK or Picatinny rails for mounting accessories such as bipods, lights, or vertical grips, expanding your rifle's capabilities.
Types of Savage 110 Aftermarket Stocks
The market offers a diverse range of aftermarket stocks, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Here are some of the most popular types:
Synthetic Stocks
- Pros: Durable, weather-resistant, lightweight, often less expensive than wood stocks.
- Cons: Can feel less "warm" to the touch than wood, may not offer the same level of aesthetic appeal to all shooters.
Wood Stocks
- Pros: Classic look and feel, often provide excellent stability, can be highly customizable.
- Cons: More expensive than synthetic stocks, require more care and maintenance, susceptible to warping or cracking in extreme conditions.
Carbon Fiber Stocks
- Pros: Extremely lightweight, incredibly stiff and stable, often provide superior accuracy.
- Cons: The most expensive option, can be more fragile than other materials.
Chassis Systems
- Pros: Extremely rigid and stable, highly customizable, often feature integrated bedding systems.
- Cons: Usually the most expensive option, can add significant weight to the rifle.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Stock
Selecting the right aftermarket stock involves careful consideration of several key factors:
- Your Budget: Prices vary significantly depending on the material, features, and manufacturer.
- Your Shooting Style: Consider whether you primarily shoot from a benchrest, prone position, or standing.
- Your Rifle's Intended Use: The stock you choose should be appropriate for the type of shooting you plan to do (hunting, target shooting, etc.).
- Weight and Size: A heavier stock can improve stability but may also make the rifle more cumbersome to carry.
- Adjustability: Consider features like adjustable cheek rests and length of pull.
Popular Aftermarket Stock Manufacturers
Several reputable manufacturers produce high-quality aftermarket stocks for the Savage 110. Researching different brands and models will help you find the perfect fit for your needs and preferences. Some popular choices include, but are not limited to, Bell & Carlson, Boyd's Gunstocks, McMillan, and MDT (for chassis systems).
Installation and Bedding
While some stocks are designed for easy drop-in installation, others may require professional gunsmithing services for proper fitting and bedding. Bedding ensures a solid and consistent contact between the rifle's action and the stock, contributing significantly to accuracy.
Choosing the right Savage 110 aftermarket stock can dramatically improve your shooting experience. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can find an upgrade that enhances both the accuracy and ergonomics of your rifle. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow all applicable firearm safety regulations.
