Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend
The Remington 870. It’s a shotgun synonymous with reliability, versatility, and American heritage. While the core mechanics of the 870 are legendary, the factory furniture often leaves something to be desired, especially for those seeking a touch of classic style and improved grip. That’s where the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend comes into play.
I’ve always felt the synthetic forends that come standard on many 870s felt a little cheap. They also lacked the character and warmth of a well-finished wood stock. I was looking for a way to upgrade my trusted 870 for a more refined aesthetic and a more positive grip, particularly during waterfowl season when things get slick.
Upon unboxing the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend, I was immediately struck by the rich, warm tones of the walnut. The grain was beautiful, and the finish felt smooth and even, promising a comfortable and secure grip. The forend felt solid and well-made, a noticeable step up from the polymer forend I was replacing.
Compared to other aftermarket forends, I was drawn to Boyds’ reputation for quality and their use of natural hardwood. Some competitors offered synthetic options with tactical rails, but I prioritized the classic look and feel of wood. Others were similarly priced, but the reviews consistently praised the Boyds‘ fit and finish.
My first impression was definitely positive. I was excited to see how this forend would transform the look and feel of my 870, giving it a touch of timeless elegance while improving its functionality in the field. This upgrade promised to breathe new life into a trusted firearm.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend to the Test
First Use Experience
My first field test with the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend was a dove hunt on a sweltering September afternoon. I was positioned in a sunflower field, dust swirling around, and the heat beating down. The walnut forend immediately felt better in my hand than the slick plastic one it replaced.
The grip was secure even with sweaty palms, and the natural texture of the wood provided a tactile feel that inspired confidence. The forend remained comfortable to grip and manipulate even after several hours of shooting. There were no slippage or discomfort issues.
Installation was straightforward, and the Boyds forend fit perfectly onto my 870 without any modifications. The action cycled smoothly, and there was no noticeable increase in weight or bulk that hindered my movements. Overall, the initial experience was a significant improvement over the original forend.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a duck hunting trip in wet and muddy conditions and a few rounds of trap shooting, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking or splitting, and the finish remains intact. The forend exhibits normal wear that adds character over time.
Minor scratches from brush and occasional bumps are visible, but they only enhance the natural beauty of the wood. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional application of gunstock wax have kept the forend looking its best. Its maintained appearance indicates its build quality.
Compared to my previous experiences with synthetic forends that became slippery and scratched easily, the Boyds forend has been a revelation. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of durability, comfort, and overall aesthetics. This is a worthwhile upgrade for any 870 owner looking for a touch of class and improved performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend is specifically designed as a replacement forend for the Remington Model 870 12 gauge shotgun. It is crafted by Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, known for their quality hardwood stocks and forends. The product comes in a walnut finish.
The forend is designed for standard Remington 870 models, featuring a standard rail interface for compatibility. It ships with the standard accessories required for installation. Designed specifically for shotguns, it is sold as a single unit.
These specifications are important because they ensure proper fit and function on a Remington 870 12 gauge shotgun. The walnut construction provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing upgrade, while the standard rail interface allows for easy installation and compatibility with various accessories. The consistent manufacturing from Boyds delivers a good product.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend performs its job admirably by providing a secure and comfortable gripping surface for cycling the action of the Remington 870. The walnut wood offers a superior grip compared to slick synthetic forends, especially in wet or cold conditions. The comfortable hold enhances overall control.
One of the strengths of this forend is its perfect fit and finish, which ensures smooth and reliable cycling of the action. It does not impede the function of the shotgun in any way. However, it is a purely aesthetic and ergonomic upgrade and does not enhance the shotgun’s performance beyond improved handling.
The Boyds forend definitely meets my expectations, and it even exceeds them in terms of its aesthetic appeal. It provides a noticeable upgrade in both form and function, enhancing the overall shooting experience. It transforms the look and feel of a standard 870.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend features a classic and ergonomic design. The walnut wood provides a natural warmth and beauty that is unmatched by synthetic materials. The wood offers a comfortable gripping surface.
The forend is relatively lightweight, adding minimal weight to the shotgun. The wood provides a more secure and comfortable grip compared to the slick plastic forends typically found on factory Remington 870s.
The installation is straightforward and requires no special tools or modifications. There is no learning curve associated with its use. The forend is simply a replacement part that enhances the existing functionality of the shotgun.
Durability & Maintenance
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend is constructed from high-quality walnut wood and is expected to last for many years with proper care. Walnut is a durable hardwood that can withstand the rigors of regular use. Proper cleaning and maintenance ensures lasting appearance.
Maintaining the forend is relatively simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional application of gunstock wax will help to protect the wood and preserve its beauty. No specialized tools are needed for repairs or maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend does not come with any additional accessories beyond what is needed for installation. The forend itself can be further customized with various finishes and coatings to suit individual preferences. Applying specialized finishes enhances durability.
Due to its standard design, the forend is compatible with aftermarket accessories designed for Remington 870 shotguns. These accessories might include sling mounts or light mounts. The accessories provide enhanced usability.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend
Pros
- Enhanced Aesthetics: The walnut wood provides a classic and beautiful upgrade to the Remington 870, transforming its appearance.
- Improved Grip: The natural texture of the wood offers a more secure and comfortable grip, especially in wet or cold conditions.
- Durable Construction: The high-quality walnut wood is durable and long-lasting.
- Easy Installation: The forend is designed for easy installation with no special tools or modifications required.
- Enhanced Feel: Provides a more enjoyable overall shooting experience.
Cons
- Susceptible to Weather: Wood can be more susceptible to moisture damage compared to synthetic materials if not properly maintained.
- Not Tactical: Lacks the tactical advantages of some synthetic forends with integrated rails for mounting accessories.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend is perfect for hunters, trap shooters, and recreational shooters who appreciate the classic look and feel of wood. It is an excellent choice for those seeking an aesthetic upgrade and improved grip for their Remington 870 shotgun. It will enhance shooting experience.
This product is not ideal for those who prioritize tactical features, such as integrated rails for mounting accessories. Those prioritizing modern functionality will want to look at other products. It also might not be the best option for those who subject their firearms to extremely harsh conditions and neglect maintenance.
A must-have accessory would be a good quality gunstock wax to protect the wood and preserve its beauty. A light cleaning cloth is also very helpful.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend is a worthwhile upgrade for any Remington 870 owner seeking a touch of classic elegance and improved handling. The walnut wood provides a beautiful aesthetic and a more secure grip compared to factory synthetic forends. It elevates your gun’s appeal.
At around $63.00, the price is justified for the quality of materials and craftsmanship. The product delivers excellent value for the money. The forend improves the look and feel of the firearm without compromising its function.
I would personally recommend the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend to anyone looking to enhance the look and feel of their Remington 870. Upgrade your 870 today and experience the difference that a quality hardwood forend can make!