Savage stock/bedding project advice needed!

[SavageMOA]

Like many, if not all, I have grown tired of the "tupperware" stock on my Savage 12FV in .223. I'm looking to replace the stock. I've looked at Boyd's and Richard's Microfit and have decided that the Richards Microfit would be best. I HAVE heard that they do still require a little work. Is the work simple enough that my novice hands could do it without ruining the stock?

The second part of my question is, I would like to bed the stock. What would be the most effective method of bedding my stock? Cost is definately an issue as I am a college student.

Also, since I have heard mixed reviews about Richard's, I am MORE than open to suggestions on stocks to replace my current stock. I would really prefer a thumbhole stock though.

Thanks in advance for all the help

Will

 

[Shootndig]

You might try sharpshootersupply.com . Other good stuff for Savages there, too. Price is higher, but likely less inletting and prep work. As far as bedding, glass it and float it. See the tech article under article archive on the front page here... Stress Free Bedding. It's as good as it gets for instructions. Even has pictures for dummies like me. Good luck!

 

[Shootndig]

Sorry, its actually listed under "Pillar Bedding Stress Free Method". Works basically the same if you don't use pillars, as well.
I have used both Richards and Boyds. Boyds will usually fit closer, but either will require varying amounts of inletting type work. If you are reasonably handy with a few basic woodworking tools, you should be able to do it.
Richards can be slower than all get out, and hard to get in touch with. Boyds seems to have changed thier business model lately, and is supplying finished stocks??
Another option may be to contact Joel Russo on here, and see what he can do for you. He turns out some really nice unfinished laminated stocks.

 

[teele1]

Sharp Shooter would be my first choice if I had to make it all over again. They are fully inletted and have pillars already installed. I used a Bell and Carlson Medalist and its pretty darn good. Cost was just over $200.00 from Discount Shooters Supply and required no work other than bedding. Just an opinion. Hope this helps. Shoot Strait and Shoot Savage.
teele1

 

[savet06]

I have to add in one more plus on the SSS stocks. I have had two Richard's microfit, and while they are good wood there is work to be done. You may also wait a great deal longer than they advertise,as in 4-5 months). I am no gunsmith or craftsman, but mine have turned out decently. If I had to do it over again I would go with the SSS or the Bell and Carlson as mentioned. Perhaps a bit more cost involved, but worth it IMO.
Mike

 

[SavageMOA]

I'm fine with paying more if the stock is going to be worth it. I REALLY would like a thumbhole stock and the only ones I can find are in laminate. With that being said, are bell and carlson stocks good in everyone's opinion?

 

[Forum Boss]

I would concur that The Sharpshooter stock is a good way to go if you want a thumbhole. These days $315 with pillars installed AND a Pachmayer pad is a pretty good price. See: http://sharpshootersupply.com/ThumbholeBR_Stock.html

If you want fancier looking woods, Bill Shehane, www.scopeusout.com, offers a variety of stocks for Savages, including some thumbholes.

If you don't like the look of the laminate, you can always paint it a solid color and it will look like fiberglass when you're done.

 

[SavageMOA]

well I'm starting to lean back towards the Boyd's stock. I'm just afraid to spend $315 on a rifle stock and end up not liking it. I actually have grown to love the look of a good laminate stock. I've heard the technology used to make them has grown leaps and bounds so they're nearly as good as synthetics and look much better. Is this true? My concerns are rigidity, weatherproof, and durability,I baby my rifles anyway, but accidents happen.). Do laminates measure up?

 

[savet06]

You could also spend less, put in MORE time getting it ready to find out if you like it or not,i.e. sanding, bedding, sanding, buying then installing a recoil pad, sanding...did I mention sanding? then putting your choice of protective coating on) and then end up not liking it...and it still wouldn't be pillar bedded unless you are able to do that on your own.
I've had the Boyd's...decent, but still required a good bit of work before I sent it to Fred to have it pillar bedded. At that point he was only working with fiberglass. Had he been in laminates I would have one of those beauties in my safe as we speak.

Yes, laminates do hold up very well. If you are looking for a weatherproof stock to be carried out in the field, then the Bell and Carlson is the way to go. If you do baby them as you say, then you will not have any concern with a laminate.

 

[SavageMOA]

I went ahead and ordered the Boyd's thumbhole varmint in Nutmeg laminate from Stocky's stocks,by the way, the Stocky's people were the most friendly people I have ever dealt with). I'm more confident about being able to do the minor woodwork needed myself now that I've enlisted my father's help and his workshop.

As far as bedding goes, Since I have a heavy barrel, What would be the best method?

Free floating the whole barrel? free-floating half and bedding half? Full bed? or Pillar bed?