So...many.... stocks....

flyfisher117

flyfisher117

Professional Milk Jug Hunter
Full Member
Minuteman
Sep 25, 2010
753
376
Idaho
#1
Alright heres the deal I have a Remington 700 SPS Tac. in .223 its my first and currently only .223 so it is my target gun as well as my coyote/squirrel gun. Im in the process of getting new glass for it but the more i own the gun the less i like the stupid stock that came with it.

What is a good stock to look at? or company to look at?

Requirements:

#1. Must be a light stock I dont want the gun getting much heavier
#2. NO WOOD or cheap synthetic like the noisy plastic stocks that some remingtons have
#3. cheap as possible, im going to say less than $300
#4. possibly have the ability to later on in its life time if i ever feel like it be fitted with a removable magazine. (not really a must have because im not sure if i will ever get one but just wouldnt mind the option)
 
#4
Re: So...many.... stocks....

I honestly dont know squat about stocks and all but i saw the Bell and Carlson Medalist stock and considered it.

I guess here is another must have for me. I either want to be able to go to a store or some place and feel the stock and see if i like the feel or at least buy it from somewhere that if it doesnt fit me that they will allow me to return it.
 
#5
Re: So...many.... stocks....

well, with that last addition, unless your near a great store that stocks a lot of premium gear, your making your choices very limited. i do understand your rational, you don't want to buy the wrong kit.

you might be better off going to a range and seeing if some friendly shooters will allow you to handle their stock. some people, like myself dont mind at all, if you are just legitimately wondering about the feel. (as long as your not acting like a total f**king kook.)
 
#7
Re: So...many.... stocks....

Noobie,

Can't be done with 2 of your top 3 requirements.

You can get a light stock < 40 oz
You can get a cheap stock for Less than $300

But you can only pick 1......Quality light stocks cost money. McMillan and Manners have excellent light stocks. Prices start around $450 or so without bedding and go up from there.
 
#8
Re: So...many.... stocks....

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BobinNC</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Noobie,

Can't be done with 2 of your top 3 requirements.

You can get a light stock < 40 oz
You can get a cheap stock for Less than $300

But you can only pick 1......Quality light stocks cost money. McMillan and Manners have excellent light stocks. Prices start around $450 or so without bedding and go up from there.




</div></div>

What are manners stocks like? i did see one on their sight that kind of tickled my fancy and i seriously considered saving up for it but like you said it was $450 and i wasnt sure if they were decent stocks. It was the MCS-T and MCS-T1. The T1 was a tad bit heavy and looked a tad bit bulky for hunting. the T looked just about right
 
#9
Re: So...many.... stocks....

they are fantastic stocks, and if you get them without all the bling, they are very reasonable. you would be doing yourself a favor for the long term growth of your shooting to save the coin for one.

if your not adding the cheek rest or the minichassis they are all light. and even with the addition of those things they are light compared to most other equivalent stocks. throw in a few extra bucks for 90% carbon fiber and your talking seriously light and seriously stiff.

look around on here, you will find nothing but good things about Tom Manners, Todd, their products and their customer service.
 
#10
Re: So...many.... stocks....

I just went through the same thing. I wanted a better stock, but I didn't want to drop more than $300. Then I said "F" it, get what you really want and you'll be happy. I went on McMillan website, went straight to the specials page and found the one I wanted. You cant go wrong with Manners either.
 
#11
Re: So...many.... stocks....

For something on the cheap that works, I would go with Bell and Carlson Medalist M40 (2.7 lbs) or the A1 (2.25 lb). Both are just over 2 bills.

It's going to be heavier than the OEM stock, but it should work a lot better.

In the future, you can always send it in to somebody to inlet for a DBM system of your choice.

The McMillan specials are a good value, just keep in mind you'll probably want to skim bed the action just to the install right the first time around.
 
#12
Re: So...many.... stocks....

+++ on picking up an HS take-oof stock from an LTR, PSS, 5R, VS, or simular. They are typically priced very fair. Just keep a sharp eye out across the gun popular gun sites on the web as when they do pop up and the price is right they sell fast. Usually in the $200'ish range. Sometimes less if it's really used or painted up.............

 
#13
Re: So...many.... stocks....

You want the Bell & Carlson Tactical Medalist A3 Hook Style Series 2956 Long Range Remington 700 Short Action Stock

AKA "light tactical"

If you want a DBM at a later date it can be modified.

Stocky's carries them @ 218.33
 
#15
Re: So...many.... stocks....

If it were me, I'd save up for a Manners MCS-T with 90% carbon fiber option. I've had the hankering for one of these for quite some time.

I'm not big on heavy barrels for my hunting rifles. But I think I will have one someday just so I can justify the purchase of that stock for my "light" varmint style hunting rifle.
grin.gif
 
#16
Re: So...many.... stocks....


<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: the noobie</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Requirements:

#1. Must be a light stock I dont want the gun getting much heavier
#2. NO WOOD or cheap synthetic like the noisy plastic stocks that some remingtons have
#3. cheap as possible, im going to say less than $300
#4. possibly have the ability to later on in its life time if i ever feel like it be fitted with a removable magazine. (not really a must have because im not sure if i will ever get one but just wouldnt mind the option) </div></div>

I just got a B&C "M40 Style" stock in. Depending on how "light" you are thinking, this may actually fill all of your requirements. This is my third B&C Stock and it keeps company with a McMillan and AI in the safe.

You can order it with a BDL inlet and then later on have a smith open it up for a magazine system. The M40 style stock will be one of the steps in our upcoming article series and adding a magazine system will follow.
 
#17
Re: So...many.... stocks....

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: geometro</div><div class="ubbcode-body">For something on the cheap that works, I would go with Bell and Carlson Medalist M40 (2.7 lbs) or the A1 (2.25 lb). Both are just over 2 bills.

It's going to be heavier than the OEM stock, but it should work a lot better.

In the future, you can always send it in to somebody to inlet for a DBM system of your choice.

The McMillan specials are a good value, just keep in mind you'll probably want to skim bed the action just to the install right the first time around. </div></div>
+1
 
#18
Re: So...many.... stocks....

The HS Precision stocks are certainly another option, but coming in at around 3 bills, it's right at the budget limit for the basic models with bells and whistles added, it certainly goes over.

The HS Precisions not a bad recommendation in addition to the Bell and Carlson: ultimately up to the OP to decide which one feels better/they prefer if they can get a hold of both to try.
 
#19
Re: So...many.... stocks....

Say i get a Manners MCS-T is the forend short enough for the little 20 inch barrel on my gun? or are they built more for guns with the longer 22-26 inch barrels?
 
#20
Re: So...many.... stocks....

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Fisky</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

I'm not big on heavy barrels for my hunting rifles. But I think I will have one someday just so I can justify the purchase of that stock for my "light" varmint style hunting rifle.
grin.gif
</div></div>

Im starting to get there and as soon as i can i am going to upgrade to a an AR with a standard barrel for my hunting gun. but i figured before i worry about more guns im going to get a decent scope, base, rings, stock, and possibly trigger on the SPS Tac then i will worry about anymore guns
 
#24
Re: So...many.... stocks....

Hope someone can help. Im going to pull this thread from the dead. Since I originally asked I have now replaced the scope and rings (decided not to change base) and started shooting the gun more. Since then I have also been able to get a job, so my budget isnt as tight as was before.

What i want in a stock RE-EDITED.

1. Price to be less than $600 (a little bit over that is fine but $700 is the max
2. Weight, I would still like it lighter weight, but its not as much of an issue (of course nothing thats 5+ lbs)
3. I want the stock to be one that will be good for various types of shooting (prone, sandbag, etc) but also be shootable when hunting in the field off of sticks.

I was looking at the Manners MCS T4. Im just a little leary because I have never shot a gun with that much of a verticle grip or one that is that shape completely. Yea, it looks good but how would it perform in the hunting field? The stock that ive been really looking at is the Manners MCS T3. Just curious if anyone has experience with either?
 
#25
Re: So...many.... stocks....

Heres the 3 that im trying to choose between.
HS Precision
Bell and Carlson
Manners MCS T3

I guess Which one would be the best overall as far as value and quality?

B&C is cheap but is it worth it? or would the Hogue thats on the gun be about the same. HS Precision is about $100 less than the Manners, ive heard great things about both companies. Would the HS Precision be better then I can take that $100 and buy more ammo?
 
#27
Re: So...many.... stocks....

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: sr15match</div><div class="ubbcode-body">+++ on picking up an HS take-oof stock from an LTR, PSS, 5R, VS, or simular. They are typically priced very fair. Just keep a sharp eye out across the gun popular gun sites on the web as when they do pop up and the price is right they sell fast. Usually in the $200'ish range. Sometimes less if it's really used or painted up.............
</div></div>

Especially the LTR. It's a little shorter in the fore end for the 20" barrel.

IMG_6761.jpg
 
#28
Re: So...many.... stocks....

Fw707 if you dont mind me asking what are the holes for on the side of your stock?

Ok back on task, If i went with the HS i listed would it fit my barrel as far as length and taper? Its just the factory SPS Tactical barrel and as far as i can tell its just the Varmint contour but I havent found a 100% yes or no answer to that
 
#29
Re: So...many.... stocks....

Those are "flush cups" for attaching a sling. It also has 2 on the bottom. A member on here that goes by Da-Law-Dawg installed them.
Any of the HS stocks with the Varmint barrel channel will work with your Tactical barrel. As far as I know, it's the exact same contour.
 
#32
Re: So...many.... stocks....

I have two McMillan HTG's and I like them a lot. That being said, I just ordered a Manners MCS-TA. This will be my first Manners stock but I suspect it will not be my last.
 
#33
Re: So...many.... stocks....

The Manners MCS T3 is a real nice stock. The level of quality is right at the very top. The form and function of it shows a Lot of Thought into a real nice design. Lots of attention to detail. The think about Manners, if you call them and talk to them most times they can help you sort out the details. Nothing like Excellent CS!!

Always remember, The SALE is only the beginning...
Gary
 
#35
Re: So...many.... stocks....

I'd personally say crack that piggy bank open and see if you have enough coin for a McM/Manners that suits you. Look at what you want for adjustments and other items that will add to the cost and start saving up. BUY ONCE CRY ONCE.

I never felt an McM A4 before I bought mine. I looked at them and knew I'd love it. Never looked back. Only thing is I bought it from someone and it had no adjustable cheek rest or flush cups which I wanted, but now it has flush cups and wears a Tac Ops cheek rest and love it.
 
#36
Re: So...many.... stocks....

My Piggy bank is titanium.. no breaking this one open. No but Im just not sure if i myself would see enough of an accuracy increase or notice any higher quality between the HS Precision and McMillan. I like the tacticool looks of the McMillans (yes i sit on here and drool over everyone elses) but $500 and then how ever long it takes for the stock to be made and shipped im going to be getting my stock by the time coyote season starts back up and by then i want to have my new scope dialed in and have a few nice hunting loads loaded up. Also I only paid $350 for the gun,
crazy.gif
Not sure if i want a stock that costs more. Even though my scope already does.
laugh.gif
 
#37
Re: So...many.... stocks....

One of the Hide Sponsors has McMillan A5s (Basic) for $408 I believe to your design (Correct me if I am wrong).. Maybe more than you want to spend, but then again, great stock..
 
#38
Re: So...many.... stocks....

I was in a similar situation around the first of the year (bought a used SPS to turn into a hunting rig) and went back and forth over different stocks, knowing the OEM Remington stock was a piece of crap. Ultimately went with a McMillan that I ordered through another shooting forum that has a deal with McM (under $500, though not by much). I couldn't be happier. The fit in the McM stock is about as custom as you're going to ever see, short of actually sending the barreled action to them as a guide. It's stiff, light, the ergonomics are perfect and the tolerances are very tight. The stock DID cost more than the rifle in this case, but the results are worth it. Groups shrunk to half what they were in the original stock, cheekweld is outstanding, balance is what I want, etc. The way I look at is is that I keep my rifles forever and use them to put food on the table, so the extra $100 or $200 for top quality components means nothing over the life of the weapon.
 
#39
Re: So...many.... stocks....

look up jwprecision in the commercial vendors section in the market place, he has mcmillan A5 non adjustable for low 600 and in stock.

you really need to handle the different stocks before you buy, also see if you have any local hide members and check out their set ups.
 
#40
Re: So...many.... stocks....

Zeme, what scope, rings, bases are on that gun? minus the stock it looks almost exactly like mine!

On stocks styled like the A-4 and A-5 how comfortable is a verticle grip like they have going to be when shooting out of shooting sticks?


The thing I like about the HS is that they are a bit cheaper. I know I said I COULD spend $600 on a stock I would prefer not too just because all of the money I save can go into ammo for the gun and also Go towards the new harris bi-pod i want/kind of need as well as Badger bolt knob that i want to get installed.

The closest hide members to me are an hour + away. I know when investing in a stock it would be worth going and meeting up but for me it would cost me another $100 just to drive to the range and meet them. ('76 Jeep Wagoneer doesnt get good mileage)Tank into town half a tank around town and another tank back up home. And Ive been to a few different "tactical" shops around and just seen if they didnt have any guns with higher end stocks but the one had an Accuracy International but thats all that I have found.
 
#42
Re: So...many.... stocks....

Scope is a Nikon Monarch 5 X 20 with BDC, rings are Warne (non detachable) Mounts are Burris Extreme Tactical 2 piece makes loading much easier. The Stock was listed at $260 and I waited for a price drop and got it for $200 delivered. It is miles ahead of the Hogue OEM,same stock on the 700p and M24 sniper rifle. I am shooting dime sized groups at 100 yds. I think my next upgrade will be a timney or equivilent trigger. The stock is versitle and can be used for hunting or bench. Check out the forums clasified also Sniper Centeral and Ebay has them show up from time to time.


One for sale in the clasified for $260 + shipping, make him an offer he cann't refuse.
 
#44
Re: So...many.... stocks....

Heres a question i just got when looking at the McMillans, their butt stock seems to be higher and they mention this saying you will get better sight alignment with bigger scopes. Im running a scope with 42mm obj and its as low as it will go. Will these stocks be too high for one to get a good solid cheek weld as well as being the correct height?
 
#46
Re: So...many.... stocks....

Ok I cant decide.
HS #1

or
HS #2

The reason im looking at the Vertical gripped one is because ive noticed that when shooting with the hogue i tend to hold into the very bottom of the grip, pinky almost not holding onto the stock at all. Hard to explain without a picture but its almost like im trying to hold onto a vertical grip because thats the way that I feel gets me my best trigger pull. Im still just worried about how a stock like that would perform out hunting.

Im going to town hopefully tomorow to run into cabelas, they have had a gun with a vertical grip on the shelf for about a year so im going to go see how it feels, also see if they dont happen to have one of the R700 PSS guns with the HS stock and see how it feels. Might run to Impact guns while im at it
 
#47
Re: So...many.... stocks....

Just an FYI on the weight of various stocks. Gives you an idea of what is "lightweight" and what is not (comparatively speaking).

McM A1-3 or HTG standard fill 36 oz
MCM A1-3 or HTG "Edge" ~25 oz
Manners MCS-T3 Standard 41.6 oz
Manners MCS-T3 "90% Carbon Fiber" ~35 oz
B&C Medalist Tactical A1 (#2958) 36 oz
B&C M40 Stock (#1000) ~43 oz

As you can see, the B&C A1 Tactical is virtually the same weight as Manners "Lightweight" T3.

IMHO, the B&C A1 stock makes a great "do-all" stock for the budget-minded shooter. Order it from Stocky's and send it back if you don't like it. The B&C's are every bit the equal of the HS Precision stocks for ~$100 less. If you want to splurge on a real lightweight, get the McMillan HTG or A1-3 in the Edge construction. I'm running the A1-3 on one of my rifles and I love it. Mine came in at 24 ounces! The wife has a B&C M40 stock on her .223.
 
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