Getting My Hands on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend
For years, my trusty Stevens 311 shotgun has been a reliable companion for everything from casual clay busting to more serious upland pursuits. However, over time, the original forend, while functional, began to feel a bit… pedestrian. Its slender profile didn’t offer the most comfortable grip, especially during longer shooting sessions, and frankly, it lacked a certain aesthetic appeal that I’d come to appreciate in my firearms. This led me on a quest for an upgrade that would enhance both form and function. I considered a few generic aftermarket options, but nothing quite captured the classic lines and perceived quality I was after. Then, I stumbled upon the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend. The name itself, Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks, carries a certain weight in the firearms community, known for their craftsmanship and dedication to classic designs. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of satisfaction; the wood felt solid, the finish promising, and I felt a tangible sense of relief and curiosity about how it would perform.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the new forend was at my local shooting range, specifically for some informal skeet practice. I had the Stevens 311 fitted with the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend before heading out. The beavertail shape immediately felt more substantial and natural in my hands, providing a much more secure purchase, even with my hands being slightly sweaty from the exertion. The transition from the original forend was surprisingly intuitive; no real learning curve was involved, which is always a welcome relief with firearm accessories.
The performance under repeated firing was impressive. The added wood and its profile seemed to distribute the recoil a bit more evenly across my palm. I noticed a subtle but appreciated improvement in control when mounting the shotgun for subsequent shots. One minor surprise was the weight – it’s a bit heftier than the original, but in a way that adds to the gun’s overall balance and solid feel, rather than making it cumbersome. This unit truly felt like a natural extension of the firearm.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, including a full day of pheasant hunting in challenging weather conditions, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend has held up exceptionally well. Despite exposure to light rain and plenty of dust kicked up in the field, the wood’s finish remains intact, showing no signs of bubbling or peeling. There are a few minor scuffs from brushing against brush and terrain, but these are purely cosmetic and add to its character rather than detract from its functionality.
Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a soft cloth after each outing is all that’s needed to keep it clean and looking its best. I haven’t noticed any loosening of the fitment, which is a testament to the precise manufacturing. Compared to some of the cheaper plastic forends I’ve encountered on other firearms over the years, this hardwood option feels far more durable and built to last. It has definitely outperformed my expectations for a replacement part.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend
Specifications
This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend is crafted from hardwood, specifically walnut, providing a robust and aesthetically pleasing upgrade. Its design is a beavertail forend, which is distinctly wider and fuller than standard, slender profiles. This specification is crucial as it significantly enhances grip stability and comfort.
The gun make is listed as Stevens, and this particular model is designed for the 20 Gauge variants of the Stevens 311 and a wide array of compatible double-barrel shotguns. The gun rail is standard, ensuring it fits most original mounting hardware. The included accessories are standard, meaning it comes ready for installation without requiring extra components beyond basic gunsmithing tools.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of a forend is to provide a stable platform for the shooter’s support hand and to protect it from heat. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend excels in this regard. Its larger surface area offers a more secure and comfortable grip, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
Where this forend truly shines is in its ability to offer improved control. The beavertail shape fills the hand more completely, allowing for a firmer grip that translates to better accuracy when mounting the shotgun. Its main weakness, if one can call it that, is its slightly increased weight compared to original plastic or slimmer wood forends, which might be a consideration for those seeking the absolute lightest setup. However, for most users, this added weight contributes positively to the overall balance.
Design & Ergonomics
The walnut finish on this Boyds forend is immediately noticeable and imparts a classic, refined look to the firearm. The grain patterns are attractive, giving each piece a unique character. The overall build quality feels solid and substantial, indicative of careful craftsmanship.
Ergonomically, the beavertail design is a significant improvement. It naturally guides the hand into a comfortable and consistent position, enhancing control. The contours are smooth, with no sharp edges or uncomfortable protrusions. The checkering, if present on specific variants, would further enhance grip, but even without it, the wood provides a secure feel.
Durability & Maintenance
Given that it’s constructed from hardwood, this forend is built for longevity. Walnut is known for its resilience and ability to withstand the stresses of firearm use. I anticipate it will last for many years, far exceeding the lifespan of lesser materials.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional oiling or waxing to preserve the finish and protect the wood from moisture. It’s simple to clean with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. There are no obvious failure points in its design; it’s a solid piece of wood, ensuring reliability and minimizing concerns about breakage or wear under normal operating conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend typically comes with the forend itself and standard mounting hardware if required, as indicated by “Standard” for included accessories. Boyds also offers various finishing options, though the specific one reviewed here is the Walnut Finished variant.
Compatibility is a key strength, as this forend is designed to fit a multitude of Stevens 311 and related models, offering a broad range of potential applications for owners of these classic shotguns. While there aren’t many “accessories” in the traditional sense for a forend, the primary customization is the choice of wood species and finish that Boyds offers, allowing users to tailor the look to their preference. The standard gun rail ensures it mates with existing barrel hardware.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend
Pros
- Enhanced Ergonomics: The beavertail design offers a significantly more comfortable and stable grip than standard forends.
- Premium Aesthetics: The walnut finish and natural wood grain provide a classic and attractive look, elevating the shotgun’s appearance.
- Superior Control: The fuller profile allows for a firmer grasp, leading to improved accuracy and handling.
- Durable Construction: Made from hardwood, it promises long-lasting durability and resistance to wear and tear.
- Broad Compatibility: Designed to fit a wide range of Stevens 311 and similar models, making it a versatile replacement option.
Cons
- Slightly Increased Weight: It is noticeably heavier than the original plastic or slimmer forends, which might not suit every shooter.
- Price Point: At $85.99, it’s a moderate investment, potentially higher than basic replacement parts, though justified by its quality.
- Installation Requires Care: While generally straightforward, fitting can sometimes require minor adjustments depending on the specific firearm’s tolerances, which can be a learning curve for some.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend?
This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend is ideal for owners of Stevens 311 and compatible 20 gauge double-barrel shotguns who are looking to enhance both the aesthetics and the handling of their firearm. It’s perfect for shooters who value a classic look, appreciate the feel of quality wood, and want a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience, especially for hunting or clay sports. It’s particularly beneficial for those whose original forend is damaged, worn out, or simply feels too slender.
Those who should probably skip this are individuals seeking the absolute lightest firearm setup or those on a very tight budget who can’t justify the price for a cosmetic and ergonomic upgrade. Shooters who prefer modern synthetic materials or are not comfortable with potentially minor fitting adjustments might also want to consider alternatives. If you plan on aggressive modifications or require a bare-bones functional replacement, this might be overkill.
For those who do decide to purchase, I’d recommend having a basic gunsmithing tool kit on hand for installation, including screwdrivers and possibly a small rubber mallet if slight persuasion is needed. Ensuring you have a good quality wood finish product for periodic maintenance will also help preserve its beauty and longevity.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens 311 20 Gauge Beavertail Forend is a superb upgrade that delivers on both style and substance. It transforms a classic shotgun with its beautiful walnut finish and significantly improves handling through its comfortable beavertail profile. The build quality is excellent, promising enduring durability that justifies its price point of $85.99.
For owners of the Stevens 311 series looking for a tactile and visual enhancement, this replacement forend is a highly recommended choice. It provides a tangible increase in control and a renewed sense of pride in the firearm’s appearance. I would absolutely recommend this forend to anyone seeking to breathe new life into their 20 gauge double-barrel shotgun.