I’ve never been one to add accessories to a firearm, preferring to keep things as simple and maintenance free as possible. However, when there is a performance issue with anything we purchase, I will try to find a custom or aftermarket solution.
Such is the case with our Stevens 200 varmint rifle. I’ve been tinkering with the Savage bolt actions for quite awhile now and feel that they are a great value capable of better than average accuracy. We found our Stevens 200 on sale and picked it up as another project. It’s a great rifle and we’ve done a few things to bring out it’s best possible accuracy. We had gone about as far as we could go with custom loads, scope/rings and barrel work, it was time to give it a new foundation.
I know that the Stevens 200 is basically a Savage 10 but wasn’t sure if they could use the same stocks or not. After contacting Choate Machine, and answering a couple questions about our rifle’s action/magazine configuration, a new Savage Tactical Stock was on the way.
Below is a side-by-side pictorial comparison between the Choate stock and the factory stock.
One of the things that bugged me the most about the factory stock was how flexible (almost flimsy) the forearm is. As you can see, that is not an issue with the Choate stock. The forearm is BEEFY and there is an integral 11″ T-rail that not only adds rigidity but allows precise placement for a bipod.
The action is bedded into a solid, machined block of aluminum. The factory stock has a polymer bedding that is thin in some areas. Choate’s aluminum bed extends completely through the front action bolt area making a rock-solid bolt contact surface.
Here’s a side shot of both stocks. Some of the Choate’s features include oversized grip, high comb, generous recoil pad (magnum shooters should appreciate that) and sling swivel studs on both the left and right sides of the forearm and buttstock.
Installation was simple:
- Take the 2 factory action screws out
- Remove the action from the factory stock, being careful not to misplace the magazine follower and spring.
- Install the action into the Choate stock and loosely install the NEW action screws.
- Check the fit and function of the bolt release lever and tighten the action screws.
We plan to do an in-depth review on this rifle when we get it back out to the range and dialed-in again. More info on how this stock improves the accuracy will be included then.
Choate Machine and Tool is one of this blog’s sponsors. Their guidance in selecting this stock was invaluable. The folks there are extremely knowledgeable and friendly.
Ben
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