Gunsmithing Importance of rifle stock

[BCIII]

Please forgive my ignorance, but I am relatively new to precision shooting.

Can I get some input on the importance of a stock, beyond the obvious, bedding, free-floating barrel, weight and comfort?

What criteria makes for a good stock? Rigidity of material?

For example, I have a factory stock on my .308. It is somewhat comfortable (I've gotten used to it), the barrel is free floating, at least when it is cold, haven't checked it at the range. Accuracy of the rifle is great. So again, beyond comfort and performance, why would/should I change?

This isn't quite as important for my 308, but I am starting a .260 build and want to make an informed decision when I choose the stock. Ideally, I want to find a good dual purpose stock. One that will facilitate both precision/long range targeting as well as hunting. I'm looking at a HTG. But I have seen others of similar construction (appearance) that don't cost quite as much. Why would the McMillan be superior to say, a B&C or any other?

Thanks for any input.

 

[smokebomb]

Stocks are as diverse as shooters. A lot of what makes a good stock is how IT fits YOU.

As far as fitment goes, you want a stock that fits you for the purposes you'll use it. Length of pull, height of comb, grip angle and shape and distance from trigger, forend width and overall weight are the things you need to consider in this category.

As far as quality goes, a stock should be very rigid. Pillars or bedding block come in here, whichever you prefer. You also need to decide if you want detachable magazines or an internal magazine.

For composite stocks, Manners and McMillan typically lead the pack in rigidity and quality of inlet. It is hard to beat the HTG for an all-around stock, but it depends on your taste and needs.

B&C makes good stocks. They may be less refined in some ways, but a lot of shooters use them with top-level accuracy.

You just need to decide what you want a stock to do, and find one that fits your budget. Personally, I enjoy modifying stocks to fit me; a stock that doesn't fit correctly is a lot like a mis-sized pair of shoes: OK for a while, but as the miles rack up, you're uncomfortable and find yourself thinking of the next pair of shoes you're going to buy.

 

[BCIII]

Thanks for the input smokebomb.

 

[Goatman007]

Smokebomb is right. I and my shooting partner both bought SPS's, factory stocks. I put a B&C on mine and accuracy is top notch. You would be surprisedhow a small barrel/stock "rub" affects accuracy. If yours shoots good and you are happy with it, don't change it. Most people go for "tacticool" though.