Video
Introduction
When Springfield Armory released the Model 2020 Waypoint, they took a significant step into the bolt-action rifle arena. However, feedback from the hunting community indicated a desire for a more traditional design. Enter the Model 2020 Boundary, a rifle that beautifully marries the classic hunting aesthetic with modern precision and performance. I had the privilege of putting this new rifle through its paces, and here’s my detailed take on it.
Carbon Fiber Stock
The Model 2020 Boundary’s carbon fiber stock, made by AG Composites, is a masterpiece. The Rogue camo pattern is hand-painted, giving each rifle a unique look. The stock features a comfortable 13.5-inch length of pull and is fitted with a Pachmayr Decelerator pad, which does a great job of soaking up recoil.
Two QD cups for sling attachment are smartly positioned, allowing the rifle to lay flat against your back, a big plus for long treks in the field. The stock also includes two M-LOK slots for mounting accessories like bipods or lights.
Model 2020 Action
At the heart of the Boundary is the Model 2020 action, precision-manufactured and built for reliability. The dual locking lugs on the fluted bolt slide smoothly down EDM raceways, providing a consistent and repeatable action. The action includes an optimized extraction cam, ensuring robust performance in all conditions. It’s built with a Remington 700 footprint, which means you have plenty of customization options.
Bolt body is fluted. The bolt handle is threaded and can be swapped for a custom option.
The Model 2020 Boundary’s internal magazine is a feature that enhances reliability and ease of use in the field. Concealed within a lightweight aluminum-hinged floor plate, this design eliminates the common problem of losing a detachable magazine during outdoor activities or accidentally leaving it home. The internal magazine is robust, and a proven design that ensures that your ammunition is securely housed, ready for any hunting scenario.
Model 2020 Boundary Lock Time
The Springfield Armory Model 2020 Boundary claims a 1.9-millisecond lock time, 45% faster than the industry standard. While this might theoretically improve accuracy, its actual impact for most shooters is uncertain. However significant or insignificant, it’s a positive feature.
TriggerTech Trigger
The trigger is where the Boundary truly shines. The TriggerTech Field trigger, with its Frictionless Release Technology™, offers a crisp, clean break that’s adjustable from 2.5 to 5 pounds. The adjustment process is straightforward and clicks just like a scope turret, making fine-tuning a breeze.
Barrel Options
The Boundary offers both carbon fiber and stainless steel barrels. The barrels are free-floated for maximum accuracy.
The rifle features a 24-inch barrel in the 7 PRC configuration, which is the longest option available. This length provides a good compromise between velocity and maneuverability in the field. The overall weight of the Boundary is 7 pounds with the carbon fiber barrel and 7.2 pounds with the stainless steel barrel.
While the carbon fiber barrel offers a slight weight reduction, the difference is minimal, raising questions about its cost-effectiveness compared to the stainless steel option. This weight class places the Boundary in the lightweight category for hunting rifles, but the minimal weight savings between the two barrel materials might not justify the higher cost for some users.
Performance
Chronograph and Accuracy Results:
175-grain ELDX: Average velocity of 2906 fps, with a standard deviation of 8.2 fps.
180-grain ELD Match: Average velocity of 2928.87 fps.
Accuracy was superb with the 175-grain ELDX ammo, consistently delivering sub-MOA groups with the best 3 shot group coming in at less than half MOA. The rifle didn’t like the Hornady 180gr ELDM’s and averaged over 1 MOA with that ammo both suppressed and unsupressed.
One downside was the included SA Radial Brake. I think the design is minimally effective at recoil reduction and it kicks up dirt, debris, dust, snow, and it is really loud. For hunting scenarios, especially when prone, this could be a significant drawback. I swapped it out for a suppressor, which not only improved noise management but also made the rifle more pleasant to shoot.
Final Thoughts
The Springfield Armory Model 2020 Boundary in 7 PRC is a fantastic addition to any hunter’s arsenal. Its blend of traditional design and modern features makes it a standout choice for those looking for a high-quality, reliable hunting rifle.
The Springfield Armory Model 2020 Boundary will ship in a variety of calibers to suit different hunting and shooting needs. The available calibers are:
- 6.5 Creedmoor
- .308 Winchester
- 6.5 PRC
- 7mm Remington Magnum
- 7 PRC
- .300 Winchester Magnum
- .300 PRC
Pros:
- Lightweight and ergonomic carbon fiber stock.
- Smooth and precise Model 2020 action.
- Outstanding TriggerTech trigger with easy adjustment.
- Excellent accuracy with a variety of ammunition.
- Ready for suppressor use.
Cons:
- Radial muzzle brake is minimally effective at recoil reduction, loud and kicks up debris due to it’s radial design.
- Carbon fiber barrel option is more expensive than the fluted stainless option with minimal weight savings.
The Model 2020 Boundary has an MSRP of $2599 for the carbon fiber barrel and $2173 for the stainless steel barrel, it’s a premium rifle.
Springfield Armory is currently doing a promotion of a free 2020 Rimfire Target Rifle with the purchase of any Model 2020 series rifle until December 31, 2024, which adds significant value to an already impressive package.
Springfield Armory has listened to the hunting community and delivered a rifle that not only meets but exceeds expectations. Whether you’re after antelope, mule deer, elk, or black bear, the Model 2020 Boundary is designed to perform in the field, making it a worthy addition to your collection.
Well done, Springfield. The Boundary is a winner.
Visit Springfield Armory for more information about the Springfield Armory Model 2020 Boundary
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