Browning A-bolt stock options

[Timp2]

First time posting, have always used this forum to research questions I have but finally signed up so I can actually ask one.

Recently picked up an A-bolt that was a .280 rem changed to .280AI with a Benchmark barrel. Still has the factory stock and the only option I’m seeing out there for an upgrade is a Bell and Carlson sporter style but looking for something with more of a vertical grip. Anyone know of another option?
I saw a McMillan on eBay but waited till I actually had possession of the gun before buying and of course it sold that same day before I got a chance at it.

 

[onlybrowning]

Is an A Bolt, A Bolt II, or ABIII?

 

[Timp2]

Is an A Bolt, A Bolt II, or ABIII?

It’s an A Bolt ll, made in ‘96 based on the serial number

 

[TSnave]

Boyds has a variety of styles that will fit the A-Bolt II if you don't mind laminate or wood.

 

[Timp2]

Boyds has a variety of styles that will fit the A-Bolt II if you don't mind laminate or wood.

Thanks, I’ll take a look. Mostly hoping to stay synthetic to not add any weight though

 

[onlybrowning]

What factory stock is on it now? Synthetic Stalker or wood?


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[Timp2]

What factory stock is on it now? Synthetic Stalker or wood?


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It has the factory synthetic on it. Was a good enough deal that I wanted to buy even if I have to stay with how it is now but just hoping to come across the right upgrade. The McMillan I saw on eBay would have been perfect if I weren’t too slow. Believe it was a Game Scout

 

[onlybrowning]

I love those factory synthetic stocks. They fit me great and I love the palm swell.


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[Tanner]

I found in my own experience that the best way to make an A Bolt solid was to sell it and buy a 700 or a Tikka.

 

[onlybrowning]

I found in my own experience that the best way to make an A Bolt solid was to sell it and buy a 700 or a Tikka.

Haha! If OP decides to go this route, please pm me first.


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[sdupontjr]

I found in my own experience that the best way to make an A Bolt solid was to sell it and buy a 700 or a Tikka.

I own both, a 96 Abolt Ii Medallion 7mag and 3 tikkas. That Abolt is still my most accurate rifle out of them all. Still in factory form other than trigger spring.

The B&C is only synthetic offered right now. McMillan did at one time, but don't think they do anymore.

Oh, also much is said to the action of the tikka, but my abolt Ii action is as slick or slicker than my tikka. So no issues here.

 

[Timp2]

I had an A-bolt stainless stalker in .300wsm that was very solid, I expect this one will be a pretty good shooter with the benchmark.

Definitely nothing wrong with the factory stock and somewhat used to them from the .300wsm I had. With what I have into it though, thought if I could find the right replacement stock would make for a very affordable somewhat “custom” setup.
Brake came on it

 

[sdupontjr]

The Bell Carlson does have an aluminum bedding block. I did have one on a Custom Rem 700 308 hunting rifle and liked it. I just considered one a while back for my Abolt because it started to get some scars on the wood.

Oh and the great thing about the Abolt II is that the mag can be modified for longer COAL than the Tikka. The Mag line in Tikkas is limited to Mag constraints or single feed. My Browning allows much longer seated rounds.

Stock Hornady 7mag 162 eldx



Modified Mag for longer COAL



My 162 eldm next to Factory 162 eldx

 

[Rams horns]

After a lot of searcing I settled on the B&C, I skim bedded it and am very happy. A factory rifle no other mods shooting .55 MOA in a 243 WSSM. Have just started working up other loads.

 

[onlybrowning]

I actually have a Bell and Carlson on one of my factory short actions, but am removing it to put a factory stock back on it. I like the palm swell and the width around the action better on the factory stock. Just sits in my hand better than the Bell and Carlson. Actually just finished putting a digital camo factory stock on one of my Mountain Titaniums. Those came from the factory with a Bell and Carlson. The recoil lug is the only difference, and it is minor, so fitting the factory stock to it from a regular A bolt wasn't difficult at all.

 

[KenLee]

I found in my own experience that the best way to make an A Bolt solid was to sell it and buy a 700 or a Tikka.

Blasphemy!!!