Let’s Dive into Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend is a drop-in replacement forend designed to refresh or upgrade the look and feel of your trusty Remington 870 shotgun. Crafted by Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, a company known for quality hardwood products, this forend aims to combine classic aesthetics with reliable functionality. For those looking to inject some classic styling into their modern sporting shotgun, it presents an interesting option.
I’ve been a Remington 870 enthusiast for years, appreciating its reliability and versatility. The original synthetic forend on my 870, while functional, always felt a bit… bland. I was seeking a more traditional, aesthetically pleasing option that would also enhance my grip and handling, leading me directly to the American Plainsman.
Upon unboxing, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend exuded a sense of quality. The wood grain was attractive, the finish smooth, and the weight felt substantial without being cumbersome. Initial inspection revealed no obvious flaws in the craftsmanship, instilling confidence in its build quality.
Several other hardwood forends are available for the 870, but the American Plainsman stood out due to its classic styling and reasonable price point. Some competitors offered more aggressive texturing, while others focused on modularity. Ultimately, the clean lines and traditional look of the American Plainsman were what drew me in, promising an aesthetic upgrade without sacrificing functionality.
My first impression was one of excitement, tinged with a bit of apprehension. Would it fit properly? Would the wood hold up to the rigors of regular use? Only time and testing would tell, but the initial visual appeal was undeniable.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend came during a skeet shooting session at my local range. I wanted to assess its feel and performance under realistic shooting conditions. The weather was mild and dry, providing optimal conditions for testing grip and handling.
The new forend immediately improved the feel of the shotgun. The natural wood felt warmer and more comfortable in my hand compared to the original synthetic forend. The shape provided a secure grip, allowing for smoother and more controlled cycling of the action.
There were no immediate issues after the first use. The forend felt solid and secure, and the finish seemed durable enough to withstand light handling. The enhanced grip made the gun feel more controllable when firing lighter loads.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend has proven to be a worthwhile upgrade. I have used it during multiple range sessions and a couple of upland bird hunts. The finish has held up well, showing only minor signs of wear.
Durability has been impressive overall. The wood has not cracked or warped, even after exposure to varying temperatures and humidity levels. Some minor scratches are present, but they add to the forend’s character and rustic appeal.
Maintenance is straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use keeps the wood clean and protected. So far, I’ve seen no need for any specialized cleaning products or treatments.
Compared to my previous experience with the synthetic forend, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend offers a significant upgrade in both aesthetics and feel. The improved grip and natural feel of the wood have definitely enhanced my shooting experience. It performs exactly as hoped for.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend is specifically designed for the Remington 870 12 Gauge shotgun. It is a direct replacement forend, meaning it installs in place of the factory forend without any modifications to the shotgun itself. The forend is made from hardwood, providing both durability and a classic aesthetic appeal.
- Manufacturer: Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks
- Gun Make: Remington
- Gun Model: Remington Model 870
- Gun Gauge: 12 Gauge
- Gun Rail: Standard
- Included Accessories: Standard
- Gun Type: Shotgun
- Quantity: 1
These specifications are important because they ensure compatibility with the Remington 870. The use of hardwood means it will be more durable than many synthetic options, and can withstand the rigors of field use.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend performs its job admirably by providing a secure and comfortable grip for cycling the action of the shotgun. The shape and texture of the wood allow for a firm hold, even in wet or gloved conditions. This translates to smoother and faster follow-up shots.
The American Plainsman forend’s strength is definitely its enhanced grip and improved aesthetics. A possible area for improvement might be the addition of some checkering or stippling for an even more secure hold in extreme conditions. However, the smooth finish contributes to its classic look.
The forend meets and even slightly exceeds my expectations. It significantly enhances the overall feel and look of my Remington 870. Its improved grip contributes to better control and faster cycling.
Design & Ergonomics
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend boasts a classic and clean design that complements the lines of the Remington 870. The wood is smoothly finished, with a gently contoured shape that fits comfortably in the hand. The weight is well-balanced, adding a sense of quality without making the shotgun feel unwieldy.
The installation process is user-friendly, requiring only basic tools and minimal gunsmithing knowledge. The forend is designed to be a direct replacement for the factory forend. There is no significant learning curve involved in adapting to the new forend, and the ergonomic improvement is immediately noticeable.
Durability & Maintenance
The hardwood construction of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend suggests that it will last for many years with proper care. The finish seems durable enough to withstand normal wear and tear, and the wood itself is resistant to cracking or warping. Regular cleaning and light oiling will help maintain its appearance and protect it from the elements.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Wiping down the forend with a soft cloth after each use is usually sufficient. A periodic application of gun oil or wood preservative will help keep the wood in good condition and prevent it from drying out.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend comes as a standalone product. It doesn’t include any additional accessories. As a classic-style forend, it doesn’t directly support common accessory mounting options like Picatinny rails.
However, users can customize the appearance of the forend with different finishes or by adding custom checkering. The wood can also be stained or sealed to match other furniture on the shotgun. While it doesn’t directly accept accessories, its simplicity lends itself to customization based on individual aesthetic preferences.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend
Pros
- Significant Aesthetic Upgrade: Instantly transforms the look of a standard Remington 870.
- Enhanced Grip: The natural wood and contoured shape provide a more comfortable and secure grip compared to synthetic forends.
- Improved Handling: The enhanced grip translates to smoother and faster cycling of the action.
- Durable Construction: Hardwood construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy Installation: A direct replacement for the factory forend, requiring minimal gunsmithing skills.
Cons
- Lack of Accessory Mounting Options: Doesn’t readily accept accessories like lights or lasers without modification.
- Requires Regular Maintenance: Wood requires periodic cleaning and oiling to prevent drying and cracking.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend is perfect for Remington 870 owners who appreciate classic aesthetics and want to upgrade the look and feel of their shotgun without sacrificing functionality. It is especially well-suited for hunters and sporting clay enthusiasts who value a comfortable and secure grip. Those wanting to customize their firearm with classic wood furniture will appreciate the simplicity and quality this forend brings.
This product might not be ideal for tactical shooters who prioritize accessory mounting options and modularity. If you need to attach lights, lasers, or other accessories to your forend, you’ll need to consider a different product with integrated mounting rails. Also, those who prefer low-maintenance synthetic furniture might find the need for regular wood care to be a drawback.
Must-have accessories or modifications might include a matching buttstock to complete the classic look, as well as a high-quality gun oil for maintaining the wood’s finish. Consider adding checkering or stippling for improved grip in wet conditions.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend is a well-crafted and aesthetically pleasing upgrade for any Remington 870 owner. It offers a significant improvement in both feel and appearance compared to standard synthetic forends, providing a comfortable and secure grip for enhanced handling. The wood finish and classic design are a welcome addition to the utilitarian 870.
The price of $79.00 is justified considering the quality of the materials and craftsmanship. While it lacks the accessory mounting options of some modern forends, its classic styling and improved ergonomics make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking a traditional aesthetic. It breathes new life into the classic shotgun and provides a solid grip for any shooting situation.
I would personally recommend the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 12 Gauge Forend to anyone looking to upgrade their Remington 870 with a touch of classic style and enhanced ergonomics. It’s a simple and effective way to transform your shotgun into a more attractive and enjoyable firearm. Upgrade your 870 today and experience the difference a quality hardwood forend can make!