Just ordered one after causing a crack in my second ALD short action walnut stock.
Reviewing my stock choosing journey because, well I have a new toy on the way and like most who would be honest, just want to hear some reassurances. Thought I would share in case any one else is thinking about it. Tell me if you can relate.
First, I was set on going to semi customize an upgraded Boyds walnut. I KNOW I could use one safely but the voice in my ear cautioned what I would feel like if I did happen to ruin another.
That voice sounded a lot like my wife - actually, identical.
Since it is an ADL not a BDL, and short action not long, the choices are MUCH fewer.
- McMillan and Brown were too pricy for me (and for that little voice)
- I ended up dismissing Bansners because they seemed like a lot of after fitting would be needed
- Excluded HS until I found them for over $80 cheaper than the $415 listed on the manufacturers sight
- Began comparing HS against the only B and C options available for this config which is a non Medalsit , non Alaskan version.
I decided to call the vendor and ask how the two compared given the $80 cost diff. The guy could not have been better or more informative. I will happily recommend them but only via PM to be considerate to sponsors.
So, per him, the HS is stiffer. The B and C is fine and is lighter by a few ounces but they had some returned due to misaligned pillars. They are glued in place I guess and can set up canted I suppose. Despite some of what I read he said the HS was actually thinner and less clubby feeling particularly in the wrist (which jives with how my B and C feels). He said while the HS came with a bedding block I sounded like someone who would eventually want to skim bed it. I mentioned the B and C came with a decellerator pad. That was the one thing in their favor. He joked that the shop says HS calls theirs the ultra mag pad because it makes every caliber feel like an ultra mag!! Pretty funny. It might matter if this wasn't going on a pussy cat 6mm. The pad is glued on so it would take a little doing to replace. The B and C is rather slick while the HS more tactile exterior leant a higher quality impression.
I was surprised he said both stocks are lighter than walnut?? Midway had more colors available but added $30 and as it turns out I liked one of the two original choices best anyhow. I am paying a little
under $350 delivered which seems like a good deal for an HS Precision. Ordered Thursday, scheduled for arrival Tuesday- though Monday looking possible.
Feel free to chime in. I hope this does someone some good - even if only relating to the process.
