I have a S&W branded Howa 1500 in 30-06 that I bought back in August for deer season. The gun has been flawless and couldn't be any more perfect. I haven't had a chance to do a lot of target shooting with it yet since I didn't get it deer ready until two weeks before the season started.
Well, I should have swapped the stock out before deer season. It has been through a wringer now. I was fine with the dings and scratches that it got, that's expected out of a hunting rifle. But what I was not prepared for was the finish fading and being destroyed by rain and accidentally spraying my homemade scent killer on it. I've also started to notice a little rust in the end of the bore, which I can clean up. I plan on target shooting with this gun come spring and want to spruce it up a little.
I'd like to start with the stock, maybe something laminate to keep that wood look. I noticed when I separated the barreled action from the stock however, that this rifle seems to have been partially bedded and the barrel free floated. I haven't seen too many other 1500's in person besides mine and my friend that has 3 in different calibers. Has anyone else noticed this on their 1500, if anyone else owns a Smith and Wesson 1500. Mine is the standard version with Williams Sights and standard contour barrel.
Also, if anyone has any suggestions on an aftermarket barrel, I would greatly appreciate it. I know i could probably buy a different rifle, or do this or that. I like this rifle enough to want to throw some cash and time into it. Thanks in advance.
Well, I should have swapped the stock out before deer season. It has been through a wringer now. I was fine with the dings and scratches that it got, that's expected out of a hunting rifle. But what I was not prepared for was the finish fading and being destroyed by rain and accidentally spraying my homemade scent killer on it. I've also started to notice a little rust in the end of the bore, which I can clean up. I plan on target shooting with this gun come spring and want to spruce it up a little.
I'd like to start with the stock, maybe something laminate to keep that wood look. I noticed when I separated the barreled action from the stock however, that this rifle seems to have been partially bedded and the barrel free floated. I haven't seen too many other 1500's in person besides mine and my friend that has 3 in different calibers. Has anyone else noticed this on their 1500, if anyone else owns a Smith and Wesson 1500. Mine is the standard version with Williams Sights and standard contour barrel.
Also, if anyone has any suggestions on an aftermarket barrel, I would greatly appreciate it. I know i could probably buy a different rifle, or do this or that. I like this rifle enough to want to throw some cash and time into it. Thanks in advance.