How Rifle Stocks Affect the Performance of Centrefire Rifles
When it comes to centrefire rifles and stocks, most of the shooters focus on particular factors, including the trigger, barrel, scope, and overall look, but forget the most fundamental component—the stock itself. You can compare the rifle stock to the foundation of the house. No one will build their home on shaky ground; it’s like that.
Without the good stock, there is no point in having a good-quality barrel or trigger. The relationship between the centerfire rifle and stock is the important factor that most shooters don’t realise. Keep in mind that the good connection between these two components can dramatically improve your shooting experience.
How Stock Design Impacts Centerfire Rifle Performance
There is no doubt that the geometry of centrefire rifles and stocks plays an important role in accuracy and consistency. For example, a wider forend, like the 75mm design only found on quality stocks, including the BLR model, provides more surface area contact with your front rest.
The increased contact means better stability and less movement during recoil, which is especially significant when you are dealing with the higher pressure and forces generated by centerfire cartridges.
There is another important relationship between the forend and butt. If the surfaces are perfectly aligned during your shooting, your rifle tracks consistently shot after shot. There is no twisting or shifting that can throw your group off target. This may seem like a small detail, but at a longer range, every tiny inconsistency gets multiplied on point of impact changes.
The Role of Ergonomics in Centerfire Performance
Comfort isn’t just about feeling good during long shooting sessions—it directly affects your accuracy. When centrefire rifles and stocks are properly matched to your body and shooting style, you’ll naturally maintain better shooting form. A well-designed grip reduces hand fatigue and promotes consistent hand placement, while proper comb height ensures your cheek weld is the same for every shot.
The ambidextrous design found in quality centerfire rifle stocks means that whether you’re left- or right-handed, you’ll get the same consistent performance. This isn’t just about convenience; it’s about ensuring that the stock’s geometry works optimally regardless of your shooting preference. Poor ergonomics lead to inconsistent shooting positions, which directly impact your rifle’s performance potential.
Material Choices Matter the Most for Centerfire Applications
The material that is used in centerfire rifles and stocks must have the capability to withstand the increased stresses that come with larger cartridges. There are very few manufacturers, such as Marxman Rifles, that use high-quality laminated timber, which offers excellent stability and strength. Generally, laminated constructions resist warping and provide consistent performance across different weather conditions.
The bedding interface between your barrelled action and stock is where the rubber meets the road for centerfire rifles and stocks. Quality pillar bedding ensures that the high pressures and forces generated by centerfire cartridges don’t cause your action to shift or flex within the stock. This consistent mounting translates directly to a consistent point of impact.
Getting the Most from Your Centerfire Setup!
Before purchasing the appropriate rifle, you must have a clear understanding of how centerfire rifles and stocks work together to help you to make informed decisions about upgrades and modifications. If you experience that your rifle does not provide the most potential, the stock might be the limiting factor rather than the barrel or ammunition.
Whether you’re hunting in the Australian bush or competing at your local range, the relationship between centrefire rifles and stocks determines how well your equipment performs when it matters most.
Investing in a properly designed stock isn’t just about having nice gear—it’s about unlocking your rifle’s true accuracy potential and becoming a more consistent shooter. Anyway, if you want to learn more about our centerfire rifles and stocks, get in touch with us at Marxman.
