When upgrading or customizing a rifle, one of the key components shooters consider is the stock. Among the most popular aftermarket options is the line of Boyds stocks, known for their beautiful hardwood construction and wide compatibility with various rifle actions. However, a common question arises: do Boyds stocks need to be bedded? The answer depends on several factors, including the rifle’s intended use, the tolerances of the action-to-stock fit, and the shooter’s accuracy expectations. Understanding bedding and its relationship to Boyds stocks can help gun owners make more informed decisions.
Understanding Rifle Bedding
Bedding is the process of creating a stable and precise interface between the rifle’s action and its stock. The goal is to improve consistency and accuracy by minimizing movement during recoil and ensuring repeatable harmonics with every shot. Bedding can be done through several methods, such as glass bedding with epoxy resin or using aluminum pillar bedding.
Why Bedding Matters
Even the slightest movement of the action within the stock can lead to inconsistencies in shot placement. Bedding serves to eliminate any voids or inconsistencies in the contact surfaces between the rifle’s receiver and the stock. This is especially critical in precision shooting and long-range applications, where even minor inaccuracies can have a noticeable effect.
About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks
Boyds stocks are known for being affordable yet aesthetically pleasing alternatives to synthetic and factory wooden stocks. They are made from laminated hardwood, which provides both strength and dimensional stability. The company offers options for dozens of rifle models and provides customizations such as adjustable combs, finishes, and recoil pads.
Factory Fit of Boyds Stocks
Boyds stocks are inletted using CNC machines to fit specific rifle actions, meaning they typically offer a snug and functional fit right out of the box. For general hunting and recreational shooting, many users find that no additional bedding is necessary. However, the fit might not be perfectly matched for every individual rifle due to factory variances, which leads to the need for bedding in some cases.
Do Boyds Stocks Need Bedding?
The need to bed a Boyds stock depends on what the user expects from their rifle. For casual shooters or hunters engaging targets within moderate distances, the out-of-box fit may be entirely adequate. However, for target shooters, competitive marksmen, or anyone pushing their rifle’s precision to its limits, bedding can offer clear benefits.
Factors Influencing Bedding Requirements
- Precision Goals: If maximum accuracy is the goal, bedding improves action stability and shot repeatability.
- Fit of Action: Some factory actions may not mate perfectly with the CNC-inletted Boyds stock. In such cases, bedding fills gaps and ensures better contact.
- Barrel Type: Free-floating barrels benefit from a stable receiver bed to avoid shifting harmonics.
- Environmental Exposure: Humidity and temperature can slightly alter wood stocks. Bedding can help reduce these effects on performance.
Types of Bedding for Boyds Stocks
Several bedding options are compatible with Boyds hardwood stocks. The choice depends on user experience and the desired end result.
Glass Bedding
Glass bedding uses a two-part epoxy resin to mold the action perfectly to the stock. It’s the most common bedding method and is ideal for creating a custom, supportive fit. Once cured, the epoxy holds the action firmly and eliminates movement under recoil.
Pillar Bedding
Pillar bedding involves inserting metal sleeves (pillars) into the stock to prevent compression when tightening action screws. Many rifle builders combine pillar bedding with glass bedding for a more rigid and durable fit. This method helps maintain torque settings and consistency over time.
Full-Length Bedding vs. Partial Bedding
- Full-Length Bedding: Involves bedding the entire length of the action and recoil lug area. Suitable for heavy-barreled precision rifles.
- Partial Bedding: Only critical contact areas such as the recoil lug and tang are bedded. This approach is often enough for hunting rifles.
Pros of Bedding a Boyds Stock
There are several advantages to bedding a Boyds stock, especially for precision-minded shooters:
- Improved accuracy and repeatability
- Better action-to-stock contact
- Reduced shot dispersion
- Minimized torque shift from action screws
- Stabilized performance in varying weather conditions
Potential Drawbacks of Bedding
While bedding offers benefits, it’s not always necessary or ideal for every shooter. Some possible downsides include:
- Permanent modification of the stock
- Time-consuming for DIY users
- Risk of error without proper tools or knowledge
- May void manufacturer warranty if done improperly
When You Can Skip Bedding
Not every rifle owner needs to bed their Boyds stock. Bedding may be unnecessary in the following scenarios:
- Using the rifle only for short-range or general hunting
- Rifle groups consistently well with factory fit
- Shooter prefers to avoid permanent alterations
- No visible play or gaps between action and stock
Best Practices for Bedding Boyds Stocks
If you choose to bed your Boyds stock, following best practices ensures the best results:
- Use high-quality bedding compounds
- Apply release agent to the action to prevent bonding
- Support the barrel if not free-floating
- Ensure torque specs are followed when reassembling
- Consider professional bedding if unsure about DIY
Boyds stocks offer a versatile and affordable upgrade for rifle enthusiasts. While many users find that they perform well without bedding, those seeking enhanced accuracy and tighter groupings may benefit from taking the extra step. Bedding a Boyds stock especially through glass or pillar bedding can transform a good rifle into a precision instrument. Whether or not bedding is necessary ultimately depends on your rifle’s performance, shooting needs, and expectations. Evaluating your goals and understanding the stock-to-action fit will help you determine if bedding is the right move.