Has anyone tried one of Hogue's overmolded stocks? I'm gonna build a 35 whelen (maybe Improved). I'm thinking of making it a no-nonsense brush gun, and was wondering if anyone had any experience with these stocks.

I'm real curious to know if the bedding block is worth the extra cost or should I save the money and bed it myself? I usually end up wearing more bedding compound than goes in the stock.

How is the fit, any stringers of the rubber from the mold seams? Recoil pad quality?

Could also use a recommendation for a good fixed power scope. Maybe 4x or 6x. Don't want to spend much over $300.00 on glass.

thanks

I have two..one is pillar bedded on a Ruger MKII 35 Whelen and the other is full length bedded on a Ruger MKII 308. These guns are utilized for exactly what you describe. No nonsense hunting rifles. I would buy another Hogue stock.

In order to customize (= make it shoot better than in factory version)my Win 70 in .338 Win, I went to a Lothar Walther bbl. + an Hogue stock with full bedding block. Drop in was precise and the rifle shoots quite accurately now. The stock is no lightweight but it sure helps tame recoil. I like the hollow recoil pad for its comfort. During initial tests, I noticed that contrary to wood stocked Win 70, the middle screw should be as tight as the 2 others.

I'm a Hogue fan all the way. Go for it.

I've got the pillar bedded one for a 338-06AI I built on a 98 Mauser. Complete drop in fit. No troubles at all. I really like the way it feels, and the rifle shoots under 1" with full-house loads. For the $100 I paid, I wouldn't hesitate to buy another stock like this. Simple and tough - which is how I like my guns. maxman