Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend offers shotgun owners a direct replacement forend crafted from walnut. This forend promises both enhanced aesthetics and a potentially improved feel for Fair SLX 800 12 gauge over/under shotguns. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks has a solid reputation, so I was intrigued to see how this product stacked up.
I’ve been a shotgun enthusiast for years, primarily using my Fair SLX 800 for upland bird hunting. My original forend, after a particularly rough grouse season involving a tumble down a rocky slope, sustained some cosmetic damage. While still functional, the scratches bothered me, and I started looking for a high-quality replacement.
Upon receiving the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend, I was immediately struck by the walnut’s rich color and smooth finish. The weight felt comparable to the original, and the build quality seemed excellent. It was clearly a step up in aesthetics.
Compared to cheaper, synthetic forends I considered, the Boyds option felt like a worthwhile investment in both appearance and potentially durability. I also looked at another walnut forend from a custom gunsmith, but the price was significantly higher. This Boyds forend seemed to strike a nice balance between quality and affordability.
My first impression was excitement tempered with a bit of apprehension. While the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend looked fantastic, I was eager to see how it performed and fit on my shotgun. I hoped it would live up to the expectations set by its initial appearance and the Boyds name.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend at my local sporting clays range. The weather was mild and sunny, a perfect day for shooting. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, requiring only a few minutes and no specialized tools.
The forend felt secure and comfortable in my hand during use. The checkering provided a solid grip, even with slightly sweaty hands. There were no noticeable gaps or movement between the forend and the receiver, indicating a proper fit.
After the first 50 rounds, I noticed no issues. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend remained firmly in place, and the walnut finish showed no signs of wear from handling. I was particularly impressed with how the forend enhanced the overall aesthetic of my shotgun.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple trips to the range and a full hunting season, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend continues to perform admirably. There are no cracks, chips, or other signs of structural weakness. The finish has held up well, showing only minor scratches from normal use.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use keeps it looking its best. I’ve found the walnut to be more resistant to scratches and dings than the original forend’s finish. This is a definite plus.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory forends, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend outperforms in both aesthetics and perceived durability. It adds a touch of class to my shotgun while providing a secure and comfortable grip. It has certainly exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend is specifically designed for Fair SLX 800 12-gauge over/under shotguns. It is crafted from walnut and features a standard gun rail configuration. The included accessories are standard, meaning it’s a direct replacement forend, assuming compatibility.
The walnut construction provides a blend of aesthetics, durability, and a comfortable feel. The standard gun rail ensures compatibility with the Fair SLX 800, eliminating the need for modifications. These specifications matter because they directly impact the forend’s fit, feel, and overall contribution to the shotgun’s performance and appearance.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend enhances the shotgun’s handling and overall shooting experience. The walnut provides a secure grip, and its solid construction contributes to a more balanced feel. It does its job well.
The primary strength is its direct replacement design and improved aesthetics. One minor area for potential improvement could be the addition of enhanced checkering for an even more secure grip in extreme conditions. It meets expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. Boyds uses high-quality walnut with a smooth, even finish. The weight is comparable to the original forend, maintaining the shotgun’s balance.
The ergonomic design feels comfortable in hand, promoting a natural and consistent grip. There’s virtually no learning curve. It’s an immediate improvement over a damaged or worn factory forend.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend should last for many years. The walnut is resistant to most common wear and tear, and the finish is durable enough to withstand regular use in the field.
Maintenance is simple; regular cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition. Minor scratches can often be buffed out with appropriate wood finishing products. Repairs, if needed, could be handled by a competent gunsmith.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend is primarily a replacement part, so it doesn’t come with many accessories. However, its walnut construction can be customized with checkering or refinishing to further personalize the shotgun’s appearance.
It’s designed specifically for the Fair SLX 800 and doesn’t require any special adapters or modifications to use. While direct accessory compatibility is limited, gunsmiths could potentially adapt it for certain aftermarket accessories with some effort.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend
Pros
- Direct replacement: Easy installation with no modifications needed.
- Enhanced aesthetics: Walnut construction significantly improves the shotgun’s appearance.
- Improved grip: Provides a secure and comfortable hold.
- Increased durability: Walnut is more resistant to wear and tear than some factory finishes.
- Affordable upgrade: Offers a premium look and feel at a reasonable price.
Cons
- Limited customization: Fewer accessory options compared to some synthetic forends.
- Walnut requires care: Needs occasional cleaning and oiling to maintain its appearance.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend?
Perfect for: Fair SLX 800 owners looking to replace a damaged forend or upgrade their shotgun’s appearance. Also ideal for hunters and sporting clays enthusiasts who appreciate the classic look and feel of walnut.
Who should skip this product? Owners seeking maximum accessory compatibility or those who prefer synthetic materials for their perceived weather resistance.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A good quality wood oil and cleaning cloth for regular maintenance. Enhanced checkering could be a worthwhile modification for improved grip in wet conditions.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend is a worthwhile investment for Fair SLX 800 owners seeking to enhance their shotgun’s aesthetics and handling. Its walnut construction provides a classic look, a secure grip, and improved durability.
At $95.99, the price is justified, considering the quality of the materials and the overall improvement it provides. It offers a premium look and feel without breaking the bank.
I would personally recommend the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks FairSlx 800 12 Gauge O/U Forend to anyone looking to upgrade their Fair SLX 800. If you value aesthetics, appreciate the feel of walnut, and want a reliable replacement forend, this is an excellent choice. Upgrade your shotgun today!