Synthetic vs Laminate Stocks

[Phil3]

I routinely go to my local 100 yard range (all we have around here) to punch holes in paper targets. I have a Howa 1500 action in 223 for which I want to shoot as accurately as possible. I have not had a good experience with a Bell & Carlson Tactical Medalist, but recognize I need a stock that gives me best accuracy. I don't really need tactical stuff, which seems expensive (Manners, McMillan), and I have heard that laminates can be cheaper and actually stiffer and stronger. ??? If so, This may be the way to go. It does seem that most benchrest people use laminates and that must be for a reason (accuracy I presume). Ideally, a stock that can ride bags front and rear but also use a bipod up front at times would work well for me. Is the laminate a better bet for my needs? Was considering looking at Joel Russo stocks, but no idea on costs for these.

Phil

 

[BoydAllen]

The main issue with laminates in not their accuracy, but their weight. Accurate rifles can be built with either.

 

[Leaddog]

I have (2) F T/R rifles. One, with a McMillan A5 glass stock and the other, a Master Class High Power Prone laminate by Alex Sitman. Although I see no difference in accuracy (both custom rifles), the perceived recoil is somewhat less with the laminate. I like them both, but I like my laminate stock by Alex better. Both stocks weigh about the same. 4.6 Lbs.

 

[Nodak7mm]

Phil,

I have dealt with Joel for the past 3-4 yrs. Got one and another in the works.

Tell me what I can do to help answer your questions... Shoot me a PM.

Rod

 

[SS427]

Hogue and H.S. Precision make stocks that your Howa will drop right into. The expensive models have CNC machined aluminum bedding block built right in, the same as the Bell and Carlson. The Hogue is in the $250 price range and the H.S. is about $350. Lots of guys skim bed these but I have done nothing to any of mine and they shoot really well. One of them is a Wby Vanguard in .223 and it will shoot its fair share of 1/2 inch groups.

 

[Sully2]

Go to web site Scope us Out.com check out Bill Sehane stuff great guy

Ive got one of his stocks on my latest 6mm build

 

[CJ6]

Another for Bill Shehane. I have several. He does sell Metal (HVY) gun or fiberglass/graphite stocks as well, but mainly wood laminates.