The IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL Made a Bold First Impression
The IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL, or more accurately, the grip designed for pump and automatic 12 and 20-gauge shotguns, promises enhanced control and versatility. This black, two-piece pistol grip aims to transform your shotgun into a more maneuverable and tactical platform. At a price point of $28.99, it’s an accessible upgrade for shotgun enthusiasts looking to improve their handling.
I’ve always been fascinated by modular weapon systems. A pistol grip for a shotgun seemed like a way to drastically change the weapon’s profile for storage, transport, and potentially close-quarters use. I was hoping for a significant improvement in handling speed and compactness when navigating tight spaces.
Upon receiving the IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL, the first thing I noticed was its simple, functional design. The black polymer seemed robust enough for its intended purpose, but without any user feedback available, the build quality was purely speculative. It immediately made me think of similar pistol grip conversions I’ve seen for AR-15 platforms, though those are generally more complex.
Compared to standard shotgun stocks, like the classic wood stock on my Mossberg 500 or the adjustable synthetic stock on my Remington 870, the IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL promised a more compact and aggressive profile. I chose this due to its advertised compatibility with both 12 and 20-gauge shotguns, offering greater versatility. My initial excitement was tempered by the lack of detailed information; however, the price made it a worthwhile experiment.
Real-World Testing: Putting IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL at my local outdoor shooting range. I brought both my 12-gauge Mossberg 500 and a 20-gauge Stoeger Condor to evaluate the fit on both platforms. The weather was dry and mild, ideal for shooting and testing the grip in relatively controlled conditions.
Installation proved to be straightforward on both shotguns. However, I quickly realized that the pistol grip drastically altered the shotgun’s balance and handling characteristics. The reduced length of pull made it feel significantly less stable, especially when firing heavier 12-gauge loads.
The first time using the grip, the recoil felt much more pronounced and directed straight into my wrist. There was definitely a learning curve to properly managing the weapon.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several range sessions spanning a month, the IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL showed no signs of physical wear and tear. The polymer construction seems durable enough for moderate use, but its impact on shooting accuracy and comfort remained a concern. Cleaning was simple, just wiping down the grip with a cloth after use.
The biggest issue remained the control and handling. Compared to my experience with traditional stocks, the pistol grip made follow-up shots slower and less precise. While it did offer a more compact package, the trade-off in stability wasn’t always worth it.
Breaking Down the Features of IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL
Specifications
- Type: Pistol Grip. This is a two-piece grip designed to replace the standard stock on compatible shotguns.
- Compatibility: 12 & 20 Gauge Shotguns. It is designed to fit a variety of pump-action and automatic shotguns in both 12 and 20 gauge.
- Material: Black Polymer. The grip is constructed from a durable, lightweight polymer material.
- Configuration: Pistol Style. This provides a pistol-style grip for enhanced control and maneuverability.
- Price: $28.99. This makes it an affordable accessory.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate the potential applications and limitations of the IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL. The pistol-style grip aims to offer increased control and a more compact profile, but the polymer construction and compatibility determine its longevity and suitability for different shotgun models.
Performance & Functionality
The IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL’s primary function is to provide a more compact and potentially more maneuverable grip option for shotguns. However, its performance in this regard is mixed. While it does reduce the overall length of the shotgun, the drastically altered balance and increased felt recoil make it harder to control, particularly with heavier loads.
The grip’s greatest strength lies in its simplicity and ease of installation. Its weakness is the compromise in shooting comfort and accuracy. It meets the basic expectation of providing a pistol grip, but falls short in delivering significant performance enhancements.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL is adequate for its price point. The polymer feels durable enough, but lacks the premium feel of higher-end aftermarket grips. The weight reduction is noticeable, but the ergonomic design leaves much to be desired.
The pistol grip design does offer a more secure grip compared to holding the bare receiver. However, the lack of any texturing or ergonomic contours makes it less comfortable for extended use and potentially slippery in wet conditions.
Durability & Maintenance
The polymer construction of the IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL suggests decent longevity, but only time will tell. It shows no signs of damage after a month of moderate use. Maintaining the grip is extremely simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth.
There are no moving parts to worry about, minimizing the potential for mechanical failure. The overall impression is that it should last for a reasonable period with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL is a standalone grip and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. Its simplistic design limits customization options. It’s primarily intended as a direct replacement for the standard stock.
Compatibility with aftermarket accessories is limited, as it doesn’t offer any mounting points for slings or other attachments. Users looking for greater customization should consider more advanced stock systems.
Pros and Cons of IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL
Pros
- Affordable Price: At $28.99, it’s a budget-friendly way to experiment with a pistol grip configuration.
- Simple Installation: Easy to install, requiring no specialized tools or gunsmithing.
- Compact Profile: Reduces the overall length of the shotgun, making it more maneuverable in confined spaces.
Cons
- Reduced Stability: Drastically alters the balance of the shotgun, making it harder to control.
- Increased Recoil: Transfers more recoil directly to the wrist, which can be uncomfortable, especially with heavy loads.
- Basic Design: Lacks ergonomic features and texturing for enhanced grip and comfort.
Who Should Buy IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL?
The IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL is perfect for budget-conscious shooters who prioritize compactness over comfort and control. It might also appeal to those experimenting with different shotgun configurations.
This product should be skipped by those prioritizing accuracy, recoil management, or comfortable extended use. Anyone needing a stable platform for hunting or tactical applications should also look elsewhere.
Must-have accessories would include recoil-absorbing grips to mitigate the increased felt recoil. Otherwise, there are limited modification opportunities.
Conclusion on IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL
The IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL offers a budget-friendly entry point into pistol grip shotgun configurations. However, its performance is heavily compromised by its impact on recoil and handling. The low price makes it an interesting option for experimentation.
Ultimately, the value proposition depends on individual priorities. While the low cost is appealing, the trade-offs in comfort and control make it difficult to recommend for serious use.
I would only recommend the IVER JOHNSON STOCK 2-PC PISTOL to those fully aware of its limitations and willing to invest in additional recoil mitigation. Proceed with caution, and perhaps consider saving up for a higher-quality, more ergonomic pistol grip system.