Let’s Talk About Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend isn’t just a replacement part; it’s an upgrade that can breathe new life into a classic shotgun. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks is a name synonymous with quality and craftsmanship, and this forend promises to enhance both the aesthetics and handling of your Stevens 311. For those looking to restore or personalize their shotgun, this could be the answer.
My old Stevens 311 had seen better days; the factory forend was cracked and worn after years of hard use in the field. I needed a durable, reliable replacement that would improve the gun’s ergonomics without sacrificing its classic appeal. This Boyds forend seemed to offer the perfect balance of form and function.
Unboxing the forend, my initial impression was positive. The walnut finish looked rich and felt smooth to the touch, and the semi-beavertail design appeared to be well-executed. The weight felt solid, suggesting a robust build, and the overall quality seemed significantly better than the original plastic forend.
I considered a synthetic replacement, but ultimately chose the Boyds hardwood option for its classic look and feel. Compared to other wooden forends, the semi-beavertail design offered a more comfortable grip and enhanced control, something I valued for both hunting and clay shooting. I was eager to see how it performed in the field.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend was at a local sporting clays range. Installation was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a few minutes of my time. The immediate improvement in grip and comfort was noticeable.
The semi-beavertail design provided a wider, more secure gripping surface, which improved my swing and follow-through. Even in the slightly damp conditions of an early morning shoot, the forend remained grippy and comfortable. I was surprised by how much this seemingly small upgrade improved my overall shooting experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple hunting trips in varying weather conditions, the Boyds forend has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking, splitting, or warping, even after being exposed to rain, mud, and occasional bumps in the field. The finish has also remained intact, showing only minor wear in high-contact areas.
Maintaining the forend is simple; a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use keeps it looking and performing its best. Compared to the original plastic forend, the Boyds hardwood forend provides a much more positive feel and a superior level of durability. This upgrade has definitely exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend is crafted from high-quality hardwood with a walnut finish, providing both aesthetic appeal and enhanced durability. Its dimensions are approximately 9 inches in overall length and 1-3/4 inches in overall width, ensuring a comfortable and secure grip. The semi-beavertail design offers improved ergonomics and control compared to traditional forends.
These specifications contribute directly to the performance and overall user experience. The 9-inch length provides ample gripping surface, while the 1-3/4-inch width offers a comfortable and stable platform for the support hand. The walnut finish not only looks great but also provides a natural, non-slip surface, even in wet conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend significantly improves the handling and control of the Stevens 311 shotgun. The semi-beavertail design fills the hand nicely, providing a more secure grip and enhanced recoil absorption. This leads to improved accuracy and reduced fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
The primary strength of this forend is its improved ergonomics and handling characteristics. However, a potential weakness might be its susceptibility to scratches and dings compared to synthetic alternatives. Overall, the Boyds forend meets and exceeds expectations, offering a noticeable upgrade over the original factory part.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend is excellent; the hardwood is dense and well-shaped, with a smooth, consistent finish. The weight is slightly more than the original plastic forend, adding a sense of solidity and balance to the shotgun. The semi-beavertail design is both aesthetically pleasing and functionally superior.
The forend is user-friendly and requires no special tools or skills to install. The design is intuitive and provides a comfortable, natural grip that enhances shooting performance. There is virtually no learning curve involved, making it an easy and worthwhile upgrade for any Stevens 311 owner.
Durability & Maintenance
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend is built to last, with its durable hardwood construction and protective finish. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. The finish is resistant to scratches and wear, but it’s important to avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners.
Maintenance is straightforward; simply wipe down the forend with a lightly oiled cloth after each use to remove dirt, moisture, and fingerprints. Periodically applying a quality wood preservative will help to maintain the finish and protect the wood from the elements. The forend is not easily repaired if damaged, so it’s important to handle it with care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend does not come with any additional accessories, as it is a direct replacement part. Customization options are limited to refinishing or adding checkering for improved grip. However, it is compatible with any accessories that are designed to fit the standard Stevens 311 20 gauge shotgun.
The forend is compatible with various sling attachments and other aftermarket accessories designed for the Stevens 311. While the forend itself offers limited customization options, it provides a solid foundation for further enhancing your shotgun.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend
Pros
- Improved ergonomics and handling compared to the factory forend.
- Durable hardwood construction with a beautiful walnut finish.
- Easy to install with basic tools.
- Enhanced recoil absorption for improved shooting comfort.
- Adds a classic, personalized touch to your Stevens 311 shotgun.
Cons
- May be more susceptible to scratches and dings compared to synthetic alternatives.
- Limited customization options beyond refinishing or adding checkering.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend?
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend is perfect for hunters and sporting clay enthusiasts who want to improve the handling and aesthetics of their Stevens 311 shotgun. It’s also an excellent choice for those looking to restore a classic shotgun with a high-quality, durable replacement part. Anyone seeking a more comfortable and secure grip will appreciate the semi-beavertail design.
Those who prioritize extreme durability and are unconcerned with aesthetics might prefer a synthetic forend. Individuals seeking extensive customization options may also want to explore other alternatives. However, for most Stevens 311 owners, this Boyds forend is an excellent upgrade. A quality gunsmithing screwdriver set can make installation even easier and prevent damage to the screw heads.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend is a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to enhance the performance and appearance of their Stevens 311 shotgun. The improved ergonomics, durable construction, and classic walnut finish make it a significant upgrade over the original factory forend. At $79.99, the price is justified by the quality and performance benefits.
I would personally recommend this forend to anyone seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing upgrade for their Stevens 311. It’s a simple and effective way to breathe new life into a classic shotgun and improve your shooting experience. Upgrade your Stevens 311 today with the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Semi Beavertail Forend and experience the difference!