Rethinking Your Rifle’s Foundation: Why Upgrade?
The foundation of any rifle’s accuracy and user experience lies in its stock. The factory stock on the Savage 110, while functional, often presents limitations that can hinder your shooting potential. Many shooters find that the original stock falls short in several key areas.
One common complaint is the lack of adjustability. Factory stocks are often fixed, making it difficult to achieve a perfect fit for shooters of varying sizes and builds. This can lead to an improper cheek weld, inconsistent eye relief with your optics, and an overall uncomfortable shooting experience. Discomfort, in turn, often translates to reduced accuracy as the shooter struggles to maintain a consistent shooting position.
Another potential concern is durability. While the Savage 110 is built to last, the stock can be susceptible to damage from harsh weather conditions, rough handling in the field, or general wear and tear over time. Cracks, dents, and warping can affect the rifle’s point of impact. A more robust stock can protect your investment.
Finally, the factory stock might limit your customization options. For shooters looking to add accessories such as bipods, slings, or other enhancements, the factory design may not offer adequate mounting points or the flexibility needed to truly personalize their rifle.
The Advantage of Change: Magpul Stocks for the Savage 110
Magpul, known for its innovative and durable firearm accessories, has a long-standing reputation for providing premium solutions that address these common stock shortcomings. Upgrading to a Magpul stock can significantly elevate your Savage 110’s performance.
The most noticeable benefit is enhanced ergonomics and shooter comfort. Magpul stocks are engineered with shooter comfort in mind, often featuring a more ergonomic design that promotes a natural shooting position. The design incorporates features such as improved grip angles, optimized cheek weld, and a comfortable overall feel. This improved comfort can greatly reduce shooter fatigue, allowing you to maintain focus and accuracy over extended shooting sessions.
Another standout advantage is the adjustability. Magpul stocks offer the flexibility to fine-tune your rifle to your exact body dimensions. Adjustable length of pull (LOP) allows you to customize the distance from the trigger to the butt of the stock, while adjustable cheek risers ensure a consistent cheek weld for optimal eye alignment with your optics. This precise fit is paramount for maximizing accuracy.
Magpul stocks are renowned for their durability and weather resistance. Constructed from high-strength polymers or other rugged materials, these stocks are built to withstand the rigors of the field and exposure to the elements. They are resistant to impact, temperature fluctuations, and moisture, ensuring that your rifle remains reliable and functional in diverse environments.
Moreover, upgrading to a Magpul stock can lead to increased accuracy. A well-fitted and stable stock provides a more consistent platform for your rifle. This can translate to tighter shot groups and improved overall precision, whether you’re hunting, target shooting, or engaging in tactical applications.
Finally, Magpul stocks embrace modularity. Many models incorporate the M-LOK system, which allows you to easily attach a wide variety of accessories, such as bipods, sling mounts, and other add-ons, expanding the rifle’s versatility.
Choosing the Right Match: Finding the Perfect Magpul Stock
When selecting a Magpul stock for your Savage 110, the first consideration is to understand the options available and how each design compliments the 110 series. Magpul, while not necessarily having a model dedicated solely to the Savage 110, offers designs that can often be adapted or paired with compatible aftermarket components for a near-perfect fit. Finding the right combination involves research and assessment.
Before making your decision, it’s crucial to consider your primary shooting style. Are you primarily a hunter, a target shooter, or do you have other uses for your rifle? The answer will inform your choices regarding adjustability, weight, and accessory mounting options. A hunter might prioritize a lightweight stock and sling attachments, while a target shooter might focus on maximum adjustability and a stable platform.
Your budget is another key factor. Magpul stocks vary in price, so establishing a budget beforehand will help narrow down your choices. While it’s tempting to go for the most expensive option, remember that a well-chosen stock at a lower price point can often provide significant improvements over the factory version.
Of course, personal preference plays a role. Consider the aesthetics of the stock, as well as any color options. The right stock should feel good in your hands and enhance the overall appearance of your rifle.
Consider the specific features of the available stocks.
The length of pull adjustment range is important to ensure a proper fit for your body. Determine the minimum and maximum LOP required to be comfortable.
The adjustability of the cheek riser is also a major factor. This will ensure proper eye alignment with your scope, allowing for quick and consistent target acquisition.
Think about the material used. Magpul often uses robust, lightweight polymers. These materials are durable and weather-resistant. Consider how the material interacts with the environment where you’ll be using the rifle.
The M-LOK compatibility is a huge advantage, offering many customization options. Think about the accessories you may want to attach, such as bipods, weapon lights, or other attachments.
Finally, think about color and finish. Magpul offers various colors and finishes. Choose a color that matches your taste or blends well with your environment.
The Road to Transformation: Installation Guidance
Once you’ve selected your ideal Magpul stock, the next step is installation. With the right tools and a little patience, the process can be completed with minimal effort.
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials. You will typically need screwdrivers appropriate for the action screws, perhaps a torque wrench to ensure proper screw tension, and possibly thread locker if you choose to use it.
To begin, securely unload and clear the rifle of ammunition. Remove the original stock from the Savage 110. This usually involves removing the action screws that attach the stock to the receiver. It’s helpful to have a schematic of your Savage 110 to reference screw locations.
Once you’ve removed the old stock, carefully prepare the receiver. Clean any debris, such as remnants of old thread locker. You may also need to inspect for any wear or damage on the receiver.
With the receiver prepped, carefully align the Magpul stock with the receiver and action. Insert the action screws and tighten them to the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. Use a torque wrench to achieve the correct tension. Overtightening or undertightening can affect accuracy. If you opt for thread locker, apply the appropriate amount to the threads before tightening the screws.
Now, the crucial part: setting up the stock’s adjustability features. Adjust the length of pull (LOP) by loosening the appropriate screws and sliding the buttpad forward or backward. Then, tighten the screws to secure the buttpad in place. Adjust the cheek riser.
Remember, safety is paramount. Always double-check that your rifle is unloaded before working on it. Ensure a safe work environment clear of other people, and always consult a qualified gunsmith if you are unsure about any step of the process.
The Power of Addition: Customization and Accessories
One of the greatest benefits of upgrading to a Magpul stock is the ability to customize your Savage 110. Magpul stocks often feature the M-LOK attachment system, which allows for a wide variety of accessory attachment options.
The M-LOK system, with its modularity, allows you to easily mount bipods, sling mounts, rail sections, and other add-ons to your stock.
Consider the options that are available to enhance your shooting experience.
- A quality bipod provides a stable platform for long-range shooting and hunting.
- A well-chosen sling can make carrying your rifle more comfortable and convenient.
- Consider a magazine carrier, if applicable, for quick access to spare rounds.
The possibilities are as vast as your shooting requirements. Experiment and find accessories that best suit your shooting style and application.
Maintaining Your Investment: Care and Upkeep
Once your Magpul stock is installed, proper care and maintenance are essential to ensure its long life and continued performance.
Regular cleaning is crucial. After each shooting session or exposure to harsh conditions, inspect the stock for dirt, debris, or moisture. Use a mild soap and water solution to clean the stock, and make sure to dry it thoroughly.
Regular maintenance involves checking the tightness of the screws. Periodically inspect the screws that attach the stock to the receiver, as well as any screws used to adjust the LOP or cheek riser. Retighten them as needed.
Proper storage will help preserve your rifle. Store your rifle in a dry, cool place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Protect it from dust and dirt with a gun case or storage bag.
Final Thoughts
Upgrading your Savage 110 with a Magpul stock is a smart investment that will dramatically improve your shooting experience. From enhanced ergonomics and adjustability to increased durability and customization options, the benefits are clear. By carefully selecting the right Magpul stock and following the installation guidelines, you can transform your Savage 110 into a more accurate, comfortable, and versatile firearm. This upgrade is an excellent way to bring your rifle up to a higher performance level.
Now that you understand the advantages and the process, it’s time to take action. Research the Magpul stock options and select the one that best suits your needs. Visit the Magpul website or a reputable firearms retailer today to make the purchase. You will feel the difference. Enjoy the enhanced performance and accuracy of your upgraded Savage 110!
