Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 12 Gauge Stock Review

Was the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 12 Gauge Stock the Right Choice?

As a seasoned gear and equipment specialist, I’ve encountered my fair share of aftermarket parts, and upgrading a classic like the Remington 870 is always an interesting endeavor. My particular need arose from wanting to enhance the handling and aesthetic of my Remington 870 12 Gauge shotgun, specifically for left-handed use. The factory stock, while functional, lacked some of the refined ergonomics I prefer, and frankly, it was a bit bland. I was looking for a stock that offered improved comfort, a secure grip, and a touch of understated elegance. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 12 Gauge Stock immediately caught my eye, promising a blend of traditional hardwood craftsmanship and modern design. After considering a few other options, including more tactical polymer stocks and other wood alternatives, this model stood out for its material and the specific mention of a left-handed configuration. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship; the wood felt dense, and the finish was impressively uniform. It offered a distinct sense of quality that promised a significant upgrade.

Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 12 Gauge Stock to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing grounds for this particular stock were primarily the indoor shooting range and my home workshop, where I could meticulously assess its fit, finish, and immediate feel. The installation itself was straightforward, requiring standard gunsmithing tools. The left-hand configuration meant that the cast and pitch were correctly oriented for a southpaw shooter, which is a critical detail often overlooked. This immediately translated into a more natural and comfortable point of aim compared to ambidextrous or right-handed stocks. Even during the initial dry-fire practice, the grip felt secure and well-placed, and the forward handhold, a key feature of the Sterling design, made shouldering the shotgun feel more balanced. I did notice that the high-gloss finish, while beautiful, could be a bit slippery if my hands were slightly damp, a minor point that I anticipated would be mitigated with gloves or more consistent handling.

Extended Use & Reliability

Weeks of range sessions, including several trips where the shotgun saw extended handling without being fired, revealed the true character of this Boyds stock. It has held up exceptionally well to repeated use and the occasional jostle. The hardwood construction has proven robust; there are no signs of cracking, warping, or any structural degradation, even after being stored in varying environmental conditions between my workshop and outdoor range bag. Cleaning and maintenance are relatively simple: a damp cloth for the finish and occasional light oiling to maintain its sheen. Compared to the plastic stock it replaced, the density and solidity of the Sterling are remarkable, offering a more substantial feel that inspires confidence. I haven’t experienced any loosening of the stock over time, which speaks volumes about the quality of the epoxy bedding and the overall construction.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 12 Gauge Stock

Specifications

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 12 Gauge Stock is crafted from what Boyds describes as the finest hardwoods, laminated together for enhanced strength and stability. This density is crucial; wood fibers that don’t easily separate ensure that the stock maintains its integrity regardless of the shotgun’s orientation or the forces applied. The stock features a specific left-hand cast, meticulously designed to provide a proper sight picture for left-handed shooters, preventing the common issue of looking under or over the sights that often occurs with right-handed stocks. It’s finished with a durable, high-gloss black epoxy, offering a visually striking appearance and a protective layer against the elements. The description also mentions a “forward hand hold” design, which contributes to improved ergonomics and easier carrying. While the product description lists compatibility with “Commercial or MIL-Spec buffer tube size,” this is typically a feature for AR-style stocks, and for a traditional shotgun stock like this, it’s likely an artifact of general product template rather than a direct application. What’s pertinent here is its precise fitment for the Remington 870 platform.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of a shotgun stock is to provide a stable platform for aiming and absorbing recoil, and the Sterling left-hand model performs admirably. The left-hand cast is its standout feature for left-handed shooters, offering immediate improvement in the natural point of aim. The dense hardwood absorbs recoil effectively, making follow-up shots more manageable and reducing felt punishment during extended shooting sessions. The “forward hand hold” design, while subtle, does contribute to a more secure and balanced feel when carrying the shotgun, preventing it from feeling muzzle-heavy or awkward. Its main job is to connect the shooter to the firearm comfortably and effectively, and this stock excels at that. The only minor area for potential improvement might be the slipperiness of the high-gloss finish in very humid conditions, but this is a common characteristic of gloss finishes and is easily managed.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Sterling stock is a compelling blend of classic aesthetics and practical ergonomics. The use of laminated hardwoods, featuring an inlay of figured and straight grain walnut, gives it a premium look that far surpasses most factory polymer stocks. The high-gloss black epoxy finish provides a uniform, deep color that looks stunning and feels smooth to the touch. In terms of ergonomics, the dedicated left-hand cast is paramount, ensuring a proper cheek weld and sight alignment without the need for compensatory body contortions. The forward handhold contributes to a comfortable, stable grip, reducing fatigue during prolonged handling or shooting. The overall feel in hand is one of substantial quality; it’s not a lightweight, flimsy part, but a solid, well-contoured piece of craftsmanship.

Durability & Maintenance

Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks is known for its durable products, and this Sterling model is no exception. The lamination process and the robust epoxy finish contribute to excellent longevity. Under normal use for a 12 Gauge shotgun, this stock is built to last for decades. The dense hardwood is resistant to the common issues that plague lesser quality wood stocks, such as cracking or splintering under stress or impact. Maintenance is minimal, primarily consisting of wiping down the stock with a soft cloth after use and occasionally applying a quality wood polish or wax to maintain the shine and protective layer of the high-gloss finish. I haven’t encountered any wear points, nicks, or loose bedding, even after significant range time and transport.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 12 Gauge Stock arrives as a complete unit, ready for installation. It doesn’t typically come with additional accessories in the way that some firearm components do. However, its primary “customization” is its inherent design: the left-hand cast and the figured walnut inlay provide a significant aesthetic and functional upgrade. While Boyds offers various finishes and configurations, this specific Sterling model focuses on delivering a high-quality, finished product directly. Compatibility with other aftermarket Remington 870 components, such as magazine extensions or different sights, remains unaffected by the stock itself, as it adheres to the standard Remington 870 platform dimensions. The true customization here is selecting a premium, purpose-built stock that perfectly suits the user’s handedness and aesthetic preferences.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 12 Gauge Stock

Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 12 Gauge Stock?

This stock is an excellent choice for left-handed shooters who own a Remington 870 12 Gauge shotgun and are looking to upgrade its aesthetics and ergonomics. It’s ideal for individuals who appreciate the classic beauty and tactile feel of real wood over synthetic materials. If you frequently carry your shotgun for extended periods, whether for sport shooting or other applications where comfort and balance are key, this stock will be a welcome improvement. Anyone seeking a high-quality, durable, and visually striking aftermarket part that is specifically designed for left-handed operation should seriously consider this model. Those who prefer a more rugged, matte finish, or a lighter-weight tactical build might be better served by polymer alternatives. A good pair of shooting gloves can easily mitigate the slipperiness of the gloss finish if that is a concern.

Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 12 Gauge Stock

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 12 Gauge Stock is, without question, a superb aftermarket upgrade. It masterfully combines traditional woodworking artistry with practical ergonomic enhancements tailored for left-handed shooters. The quality of materials, the precision of the left-hand cast, and the stunning high-gloss black epoxy finish all contribute to a product that feels both luxurious and highly functional. It significantly improves the handling and visual appeal of the Remington 870, making it a more comfortable and enjoyable firearm to shoot and carry. For the price, considering the craftsmanship and the specialized left-hand configuration, this stock offers exceptional value. I wholeheartedly recommend this model to any left-handed Remington 870 owner seeking a premium, durable, and aesthetically pleasing stock that performs as beautifully as it looks.