Howa 1500

[boomer68]

Just picked up a nice used Howa 1500 HB with the hogue stock and was thinking of replacing it with a Boyds. Should I or just keep the hogue? It’s in .22-250 with the 24” heavy barrel.

 

[RL338]

I had 1 Hogue stock , couldn’t get rid of it quick enough. The thing felt tacky , it just stuck to the front bag on my rest.
I just did a Boyds on a Wby Vanguard and like all Boyd’s stock I’ve bought it needs a little sanding to fit up.

 

[boomer68]

I am thinking of going with the thumb hole varmint model and get it pillar bedded. I’ll shoot it for the time being as is but save my pennies up for the Boyd

 

[JN270]

Try shooting it as is and see how you like it. I do like the Boyds stocks. However the Hougue usually shoots well as is. Depends if you are on with the feel or not and if you have the money to upgrade.

 

[Blkram]

If the Howa is meant for mostly cold/inclement weather, you might like the grippy texture of the Hogue stock...but if it will see year round use, you'll probably be happier with a Boyd's stock in the long run.
Howa's tend to shoot well enough, but the additional stability of the laminate stock may net you tighter groups which will enhance your confidence and enjoyment of its field performance on varmints.

Edit: And then there is the fact that some of us older riflemen still appreciate the look, feel, and warmth of wood on our firearms!
Synthetics as its uses and place, but lacks the other features that makes one want to take it down and just feel it in our hands during the off season!