Firearms
Wood vs Synthetic Stocks: What’s Best for Your Rifle? Introduction
When looking at a firearm from a purely aesthetic standpoint, it’s likely that the first thing that will catch your eye is the stock of the weapon. The stock is a beautiful piece of any firearm, and it acts as the accent piece to tie it all together. Plus, it plays a very important part in how the firearm actually operates — it provides stability and safety to the user.
When choosing between stock types, you often have two choices — wood vs synthetic stock. Not only do both of these stock types have their own unique look and feel, but they also provide the shooter with different benefits and a unique shooting experience. Read on to learn more about the differences between wood gun stocks and synthetic gun stocks and find out which one is right for you!
The Difference Between Wood and Synthetic
As mentioned earlier, there are two main types of firearm stock types — wooden and synthetic. Both have a bit of history, and before you determine which one is right for you, it’s good to know as much as you can about each one.
Wood Rifle Stocks
If you’re looking for a traditional look and feel with your firearm, then you’ll undoubtedly go with a wood rifle stock. Wooden stocks were the standard of the firearm industry throughout history. In fact, it wasn’t until about 15-20 years ago when synthetic stocks started to gain popularity throughout the market.
Wood stocks give firearms a warmth and a feel for the user that synthetic stocks are unable to replicate. If you are someone who appreciates the look, feel and story of a gun, then it’s probable that you prefer a wood stock. They carry a certain level of history and visual appeal that is hard to beat.
Synthetic Rifle Stocks
Although synthetic gun stocks are new to the scene, they’ve provided a level of performance to the firearm world that is impossible to ignore. They are a technologically superior product than a wooden stock for obvious reasons — while a wood stock was carved into what it is, a synthetic stock is formed specifically for its purpose.
Because of this, a synthetic stock is going to have some advantages over a wood stock purely based on advancements in technology. They’re also often much less expensive than a wood stock, as the technology to create the stocks improves every day (and stock quality walnut wood is becoming scarcer!). However, it is not always the right choice for every shooter or gun owner!
What is the Impact of Choosing Wood vs Synthetic Gun Stocks?
When looking at the performance of your gun, your stock choice has a direct correlation on the results you’ll be getting. There are many different factors to consider when choosing your stock — be sure to consider them all before making your purchase!
Recoil
Synthetic stocks are stronger than any wood stock. They’re made of a solid, thick and dense material, which will provide you with stability when you’re shooting. They are also easier to mold to your shoulder, which will put the shooter in a more comfortable position and lead to a better shot.
That isn’t to say that wood stocks will add a significant amount of recoil, but at the same time, it’s important to look at trends. Many wood stocks were made years and years ago, which means that the industry was working with far inferior technology and gun-making knowledge when the gun was being made. Because of that, it’s logical to assume that recoil has been lessened in gun stocks as the years have gone on.
Accuracy
When it comes to judging wood vs synthetic stock accuracy, you may be surprised to learn that a stock of a gun has little impact on the accuracy of a shot. In fact, raw accuracy doesn’t come from the stock material whatsoever — it comes from the bedding quality, barrel quality and other variables. The difference in material will make no difference in your pure shot.
However, comfort is still important in the shooter. Do you know which stock you’re more comfortable with? Your comfort as a shooter will directly impact your accuracy levels when shooting, so take the time to try out multiple stock types to learn what fits best for you.
Weight
Many people would assume that synthetic stocks are lighter than wood stocks, but that isn’t always the case. There are many factors that determine a stock’s weight, including:
- Are they solid or hollow?
- How is it designed?
- What material is actually used?
Because of the variables involved, it’s very plausible that a synthetic stock can weigh more than a wooden stock. But, with that being said, most of today’s light rifles are made with a synthetic stock. Remember, you’re not only using a different material for the stock, but there’s also a difference in the metal that is found in the stock!
Durability
When it comes to durability, a synthetic stock is the right choice every time. They’re weather resistant, can get wet and won’t chip, scratch or crack — which are all problems that wood stocks can have. Synthetic stocks are built to withstand the elements, so they are highly recommended if you’ll be shooting in poor weather conditions or near water.
Again, wood stocks are most popular due to their look, feel and aesthetic. It’s rare to find a collector’s gun with a synthetic stock — usually, the handmade wood gathers far more appreciation. It comes down to a personal preference — do you want to pay more money for a gun that could get damaged more but will skyrocket in value (and will just look cool!)? The choice is yours!
Find the Right Stock for your Rifle
Determining whether you want to go with a wood vs a synthetic stock is just one of the many ways that you can customize your firearm to your wants and needs. Another way to do this is by adding a suppressor from Silencer Central! Our silencers will help you to improve your accuracy, make you a better hunter and keep your ears protected for years of shooting! Browse our selection of silencers today!