Synthetic vs Laminated stocks in a hunting rifle

[jayquiver]

I have owned walnut and synthetic stocks before, but never a laminated stock.

I was planning on buying a Cooper short action Jackson Hunter in stainless but have come across, a Sako 85 Laminated short action, that I keep "eye spying" (Grey Wolf, i think they are referred to).

Same Calibre for each model, about a $1000 difference between brands...(and I don't need a scope).

I have never owned a Sako but own a Cooper.

I will be used for hunting. Hunting style is walking, quading and still hunting. No mountain hunting so I don't need light weight.

Pro's Con's for each?

[elkhunter11]

Laminate is more stable in changing humidity than walnut, but not as stable as a higher quality synthetic stock like a McMillan.

[SlightlyDistracting]

In the past I have taken walnut stocks and used automotive clear coat to finish them. I am an auto body tech and dont advise people to do it yourself but once your done you have a high gloss look that brings out the grain in the woid like nothing ive seen. It also essentially turns the stock into a synthetic, as it completely seals the wood making it immune to weather

[SlightlyDistracting]

I clear coated this over 15 years ago

[DiabeticKripple]

If you're not looking for lightweight like you said, laminate would be the stiffest stock

[3blade]

Depends on quality. For most factory offerings, laminate will be better than tupperware. Between those two I don't think there is a bad choice, pretty rare to hear anyone complain about a Cooper or sako stock in a hunting rifle.