Synthetic stock vs. laminated stock for accuracy

JelloStorm

Gunny Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Feb 23, 2010
1,409
4
43
Northeast Pennsylvania
Hey all,

I have a Savage 17HMR with a shitty synthetic stock that I think is throwing off the accuracy. Especially when hunting I've noticed. It may be the crappy synthetic stock is allowing for too much flex and is throwing off my zero.

So I've been thinking about getting a replacement Boyd's laminated wood stock. What are the trade offs with going laminated wood vs. synthetic.

I'm sure synthetics are better for all weather, however it's so flimsy I'd almost put money on a more rigid stock. Or are laminates susceptible to weather conditions too?

Figured I'd ask the experts before buying anything. What do ya'll think??
 
Re: Synthetic stock vs. laminated stock for accuracy

definatly a worth while upgrade.

I personaly like laminated stocks alot , i can shape them a bit to fit my hands better with no ill effects

So long as its bedded proplerly it should shoot fine or better
 
Re: Synthetic stock vs. laminated stock for accuracy

A synthetic will be more weather resistant.. but if you have a quality sealed laminate you should be fine as well. Make sure the inside of the laminate is sealed or seal it yourself if it's not. You could also go with a synthetic with a bedding system like a Choate or step up to a fiberglass stock like a Bell and Carlson. I'm guessing a McMillan or Manners isn't on the list.. but they are great options if you are willing to spend the money.
 
Re: Synthetic stock vs. laminated stock for accuracy

The weather problem with wood is that solid wood swells and shrinks or moves as the temperature and ambient humidity change. Laminate stocks are much less prone or less sensitive to weather changes and synthetic/figerglass stocks are all but impervious to weather changes. The key to a good stock is to insure the barrel is free floated in all conditions and a good bedding job so the receiver isn't stressed under any conditions. That being said the advise to make sure the wood of a laminate is treated on the inside is probably good as it pertains to the longevity of the stock.

All of this is my opinion of course.