Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend isn’t just an accessory; it’s a statement. It speaks to a love for classic design, the warmth of wood, and the solid feel of quality craftsmanship that many modern synthetics simply can’t replicate. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks aims to provide that timeless aesthetic and reliable performance.
My old Mossberg 500 20 gauge had been a faithful companion for years, but its original forend had seen better days, worn smooth and feeling a little…plasticky. I wanted to give my shotgun a touch of class and a more substantial feel, without breaking the bank. I wanted something that looked like it belonged on a well-loved, well-used firearm.
Upon receiving the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend, the first thing that struck me was the finish. The wood felt solid, well-shaped, and the grain was pleasing to the eye; a noticeable upgrade from the original synthetic. The weight felt good in my hands.
I considered other options, including synthetic upgrades with rails and various tactical additions. However, I chose the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks forend for its classic look and the promise of improved grip and aesthetics. Ultimately, it was a choice driven by a desire for something more traditional.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of apprehension about the installation process, a story for later in this review. It was a welcome change from the factory forend. I knew this upgrade would not only improve the functionality of my shotgun but would breathe new life into it as well.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on clay targets and some basic pattern testing. The weather was dry and mild, perfect for a comfortable day of shooting.
The most immediate improvement was the feel of the shotgun in my hands. The wood provided a much more positive grip than the original synthetic forend. The slightly larger size and enhanced texture afforded me more control during rapid follow-up shots.
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend did require a minor amount of fitting, which I’ll elaborate on, but nothing that took away from the initial positive experience. There were no significant issues after the first range session. I only needed a rubber mallet and a punch to complete the installation.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a few hunting trips and numerous range sessions, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend has held up admirably. The finish is surprisingly resilient, showing only minor scuffs from handling and transport.
There are no cracks or signs of structural weakness, even after being exposed to some damp weather during a late-season pheasant hunt. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend has proven to be a durable and reliable addition to my Mossberg 500. It is worth noting that the wood needs to be properly cared for to avoid damaging the finish.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use keeps it looking its best. Compared to the synthetic forend it replaced, this one offers a much more satisfying tactile experience and has enhanced my overall enjoyment of the shotgun. So far, I would say it has outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend is designed specifically for the Mossberg 500 20 gauge shotgun. It replaces the factory forend with a classic, hardwood alternative.
The forend is crafted from quality laminate or solid wood, depending on the specific variant, providing both aesthetic appeal and structural integrity. It is designed to fit standard Mossberg 500 20 gauge models, offering an easy and effective upgrade for shotgun enthusiasts.
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend does not include any integrated rails or accessory mounting points, staying true to its traditional design. The absence of rails keeps the forend streamlined and comfortable to grip.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the shotgun’s handling, aesthetics, and overall feel. The solid wood construction provides a more substantial and secure grip, enhancing control and accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend significantly improves the overall feel and handling of the Mossberg 500. The improved grip enhances control during firing and reduces felt recoil.
The forend’s solid construction and ergonomic design contribute to a more stable and comfortable shooting experience. While it doesn’t offer any tactical advantages like accessory rails, its primary function of providing a secure and comfortable grip is executed perfectly.
While I did experience a slight bit of fitment issues, it only took a few light taps with a rubber mallet and a punch to drive the forend in and secure it with the retaining nut. It meets expectations and enhances the overall shooting experience. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks has a long standing reputation of quality, and this forend seems to uphold that.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the wood being smoothly finished and well-shaped. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend feels substantial in hand, lending the shotgun a more premium feel.
The forend is designed to be user-friendly, requiring minimal effort to install with only basic tools (if any are needed). The shape is comfortable and intuitive, fitting naturally in the hand and providing a secure grip.
While there isn’t a radical ergonomic redesign, the subtle improvements in grip and feel make a noticeable difference. The traditional design is aesthetically pleasing, and the enhanced grip improves overall control.
Durability & Maintenance
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend, with proper care, is expected to last for many years. The finish is durable, but some care should be taken to prevent scratches and dings.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling to maintain its appearance and integrity. Regular care will help prevent the wood from drying out or becoming damaged.
The robust construction ensures that it can withstand regular use and moderate exposure to the elements. The durability and ease of maintenance make it a worthwhile investment for shotgun enthusiasts.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend comes as a standalone replacement forend. It does not include any additional accessories.
It is compatible with the standard Mossberg 500 20 gauge action slide tube assembly. The absence of integrated rails limits customization options, but its focus remains on providing a classic and functional upgrade.
Users can customize the forend further by adding a sling swivel stud. However, for those seeking extensive customization, other forend options with integrated rails might be more suitable.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend
Pros
- Classic Aesthetic: The hardwood construction provides a timeless and attractive look, significantly enhancing the shotgun’s appearance.
- Improved Grip: Offers a more substantial and secure grip compared to the original synthetic forend.
- Enhanced Control: Enhances control and reduces felt recoil, leading to improved accuracy and shooting comfort.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality materials, ensuring long-lasting performance and reliability.
- Easy Installation: Simple installation process requiring minimal tools and effort.
Cons
- Limited Customization: Lacks integrated rails or mounting points for accessories.
- Wood Requires Care: Requires regular cleaning and oiling to maintain its appearance and prevent damage.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend is perfect for shotgun enthusiasts who appreciate classic aesthetics and improved handling. It’s also perfect for hunters and recreational shooters who want a more substantial and secure grip.
Those seeking extensive customization options with integrated rails and accessory mounting points should skip this product. If you’re content with a classic aesthetic and improved ergonomics, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend is an excellent choice.
A must-have accessory would be a good wood oil to maintain the finish. A basic sling swivel stud could also be added for carrying convenience.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend is a worthwhile upgrade for Mossberg 500 20 gauge owners seeking a classic aesthetic and improved handling. The price is justified by the quality of materials and craftsmanship.
I would personally recommend the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Mossberg 500 20 Gauge Forend to anyone looking to enhance their shotgun’s appearance and performance. It provides a substantial improvement in feel and control, making it a satisfying and functional upgrade.
Give your Mossberg 500 the upgrade it deserves. Experience the difference a quality hardwood forend can make.