Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend offers a classic aesthetic upgrade for a beloved shotgun. Manufactured by Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, this forend aims to breathe new life and improved ergonomics into the Stevens 311 and a host of compatible models. The walnut finish promises a touch of elegance, while the beavertail design suggests enhanced handling and control.
For years, I’ve restored and customized vintage shotguns, always searching for that perfect balance between functionality and classic styling. My latest project, a well-worn Stevens 311 20 gauge inherited from my grandfather, needed a forend replacement badly. The original was cracked and splintering, detracting from the shotgun’s overall appeal and hindering comfortable use.
Upon unboxing, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend immediately impressed me with its smooth, rich walnut finish. The wood grain exhibited a natural beauty, and the overall construction felt solid and well-made. Its weight felt appropriate, suggesting durability without adding unnecessary bulk to the shotgun.
I considered a synthetic replacement or even attempting to repair the original, but wanted the enhanced grip and classic look of a beavertail forend. Other options, such as aftermarket stocks from Numrich Gun Parts, lacked the refined finish and beavertail profile I desired. This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks forend seemed to offer the best combination of aesthetics, ergonomics, and value.
My initial impression was one of genuine excitement. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend appeared to be exactly what my project needed: a high-quality, visually appealing, and functional upgrade for a classic shotgun. I was eager to install it and see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend at my local sporting clays range. The range offered a variety of simulated hunting scenarios, providing a good test of the forend’s handling and performance. I was eager to see how the beavertail design would improve my grip and control.
The forend performed admirably in dry conditions, providing a secure and comfortable grip. The wider beavertail design filled my hand nicely, improving my ability to swing smoothly and track moving targets. I found it noticeably easier to maintain a consistent grip throughout my shooting session.
Installation proved straightforward, requiring only minor adjustments for a perfect fit. After a few rounds, I encountered no slippage or looseness, demonstrating a secure and reliable connection. I experienced no issues or surprises during this first outing, solidifying my positive initial impression.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use across various hunting and shooting activities, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend continues to perform well. From upland bird hunting in dry fields to waterfowl hunting in damp marshes, the forend has proven its reliability. Its robustness offers the shooter the confidence that it can withstand the elements.
I’ve noticed minimal signs of wear and tear, primarily superficial scratches from handling in the field. The walnut finish has held up well, resisting fading and discoloration despite exposure to sunlight and moisture. Regular cleaning with a mild gun oil has kept the wood in excellent condition.
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks forend represents a significant improvement over my previous experiences with the original, damaged forend. It offers superior grip, improved handling, and a more aesthetically pleasing appearance. The enhancement provides the shooter with confidence to perform.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend is crafted from hardwood, specifically walnut, providing a classic look and durable construction. It is designed as a direct replacement for the factory forend on Stevens 311 20 gauge shotguns, as well as a host of compatible models listed by Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks. The forend features a beavertail design, which offers an enhanced grip and improved handling.
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend is finished in a walnut stain, giving it a rich, traditional appearance. It is designed to fit shotguns with a standard gun rail, ensuring compatibility with most Stevens 311 variants. The listed accessories are standard for the factory forend.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the shotgun’s ergonomics, handling, and overall aesthetics. The hardwood construction provides durability and a solid feel, while the beavertail design improves grip and control, leading to better shooting performance. The walnut finish adds a touch of elegance, enhancing the shotgun’s visual appeal.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend significantly improves the shotgun’s handling and ergonomics. The beavertail design provides a wider, more comfortable gripping surface, making it easier to control the shotgun during rapid firing or while tracking moving targets. The result is a smoother, more natural swinging motion and improved accuracy.
The main strength of the forend lies in its improved ergonomics and enhanced grip. The wider beavertail design fills the hand comfortably, reducing felt recoil and improving overall control. One potential weakness is the lack of checkering or texturing on the forend surface, which could be beneficial in wet or slippery conditions.
The forend meets and exceeds my expectations, providing a noticeable improvement in the shotgun’s handling and appearance. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend transforms the experience of owning this shotgun.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend features a classic design that complements the Stevens 311 shotgun’s traditional aesthetics. The walnut finish provides a rich, warm appearance, while the beavertail shape adds a touch of modern flair. The weight of the forend is well-balanced, contributing to the shotgun’s overall feel and handling characteristics.
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend offers a user-friendly design with a minimal learning curve. Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and minimal gunsmithing skills. The beavertail shape naturally conforms to the hand, providing a comfortable and intuitive grip.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the quality of the hardwood and the robust construction, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend should last for many years with proper care. Regular cleaning with a mild gun oil will help protect the wood from moisture and prevent cracking or warping. Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity.
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend is relatively easy to maintain and repair. Minor scratches or dents can be repaired with wood filler and refinishing. If the forend becomes severely damaged, replacement parts may be available from Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend comes as a standalone replacement forend and doesn’t include any additional accessories. While it is designed as a direct replacement for the factory forend, some shooters may choose to add aftermarket sling studs or other accessories. Options can be selected on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks website.
The forend is compatible with most standard Stevens 311 accessories, such as barrel clamps and magazine tube extensions. However, it’s essential to ensure that any aftermarket accessories are specifically designed for use with a 20 gauge Stevens 311 shotgun. You can even opt for personalized engraving on your forend.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend
Pros
- Enhanced grip and control due to the beavertail design, promoting more consistent and accurate shooting.
- Classic walnut finish enhances the aesthetic appeal of the shotgun, giving it a more refined and custom look.
- Durable hardwood construction ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Direct replacement for the factory forend, making installation quick and easy for most users.
- Affordable upgrade provides significant improvements in handling and aesthetics at a reasonable price point.
Cons
- Lack of checkering or texturing may reduce grip in wet or slippery conditions.
- The walnut finish may require regular maintenance to prevent fading or cracking.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend is perfect for shotgun owners who want to upgrade their Stevens 311 or compatible model with a more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing forend. Hunters, sporting clays enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates classic firearm styling will benefit from this product. This enhancement brings the most enjoyment to those with a love for the outdoors.
Those seeking a purely functional or tactical upgrade might prefer a synthetic forend with more aggressive texturing or accessory rails. Shooters who are comfortable with the factory forend and prioritize budget over ergonomics may not find the upgrade necessary. Those with larger hands may appreciate the grip offered.
A must-have modification would be to add a sling swivel, for those wishing to carry the shotgun in the field. While not essential, some shooters may want to add a recoil pad to further reduce felt recoil and improve shooting comfort. An expert gunsmith can provide this modification.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend represents a well-executed combination of form and function. It significantly improves the shotgun’s ergonomics and aesthetics, enhancing the overall shooting experience. Its easy installation is a significant perk.
The price of $85.99 is justified by the quality of the materials, the improved handling, and the overall visual appeal of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend. This is a small investment that pays significant dividends in terms of shooting comfort and satisfaction. It will certainly make you want to show it off.
I would definitely recommend the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend to anyone looking to upgrade their Stevens 311 or compatible shotgun. It’s a high-quality, affordable, and visually appealing upgrade that will enhance your shooting experience. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference!