Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 20 Gauge Forend Review

Taking the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 20 Gauge Forend for a Spin

For years, my trusty Remington 870 20 Gauge has been a reliable companion, but its original forend always felt a bit… clunky. It served its purpose, sure, but it lacked any real aesthetic appeal or a modern sporting feel. When I started looking for a replacement, something that offered a cleaner profile and matched the evolving look of my shotgun, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 20 Gauge Forend immediately caught my eye. This minimalist design promised to streamline the front end, and the promise of a beautiful laminate walnut finish was certainly enticing.

The need for an upgrade wasn’t born out of failure, but rather a desire for refinement. I found myself constantly comparing its dated appearance to the sleeker lines of newer firearms, and frankly, it felt like a missed opportunity to enhance the overall feel of a beloved shotgun. The search for an alternative led me to consider a few other aftermarket options, but nothing quite struck the balance of style, material quality, and a specifically minimalist approach like the Boyds offering. It seemed to embody exactly what I was looking for: an enhancement that was functional yet elegantly understated.

My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship. The wood felt dense and well-finished, with a subtle grain that hinted at its laminate walnut construction. It felt substantial without being heavy, a crucial balance for any shotgun accessory. This first touch and visual inspection gave me a sense of confidence that this wasn’t just another piece of plastic or cheaply treated wood; it felt like a genuine upgrade, an investment in the firearm’s aesthetics and feel.

I briefly considered a few generic polymer forends, but they always lacked the warmth and classic appeal of wood. They also often felt less robust, and their universal fit sometimes meant compromises in snugness. The Boyds forend, designed specifically for the Remington 870, offered a tailored solution. My first reaction was one of genuine satisfaction; it felt good in the hand, and I was eager to see how it would integrate with the rest of the shotgun.

Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 20 Gauge Forend to the Test

First Use Experience

My first real test for this forend was on a crisp autumn afternoon at my local indoor range. The primary goal was to evaluate its feel during actual shooting, particularly how it handled recoil and my grip. I was looking for any signs of discomfort or any slippage that might occur during a series of rapid shots.

The laminate walnut material provided a comfortable, non-slip surface, even with moderately sweaty hands after a few strings of fire. It felt solid and secure during the recoil impulse, absorbing some of the shock and contributing to a more controlled shooting experience. There was no noticeable flex or looseness, which immediately put my mind at ease about its structural integrity.

Installation was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a few minutes. I appreciated that it utilized the integral choke tube mounting system, which simplified the process and ensured a precise fit. There were no surprises or quirks; it slotted into place with satisfying precision, suggesting a high degree of manufacturing accuracy from Boyds.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over the past few months, this forend has become a permanent fixture on my Remington 870. It’s seen use in various conditions, from dusty workshop environments where I was tinkering with other gear, to more humid outdoor shoots. The laminate walnut finish has proven to be surprisingly resilient, showing no signs of significant wear, cracks, or stiffness.

Cleaning and maintenance have been remarkably simple. A quick wipe-down with a slightly damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove dust or light grime. For more stubborn marks, a mild wood cleaner has worked wonders. I haven’t experienced any issues with the finish dulling or the wood absorbing moisture excessively, which can be a concern with some hardwood products.

Compared to the original polymer forend that came with the shotgun, this Boyds piece is a significant upgrade in terms of feel and aesthetics. It feels more substantial and durable, and the aesthetic enhancement is undeniable. While budget polymer options exist, they simply cannot compete with the tactile feedback and visual appeal of this hardwood option.

Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 20 Gauge Forend

Specifications

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 20 Gauge Forend is designed with a focus on essential functionality and a sleek profile. It is constructed from beautiful laminate walnut, a material chosen for its durability and aesthetic appeal. The design is described as an “original minimalist design” that provides “only the most essential of interface” with your Remington 870 shotgun.

This forend specifically fits the Remington Model 870 and is designed for the 20 Gauge variant. It features a standard gun rail and comes with standard included accessories, which typically means any necessary mounting hardware for its intended purpose. The two-piece forend design is highlighted for its ease of installation, utilizing the integral choke tube mounting system.

The laminate walnut finish not only offers a visually appealing contrast or complement to your shotgun’s receiver but also provides a pleasant tactile sensation. Unlike generic forends that might require extensive fitting or adapters, this one is purpose-built for a precise fit on the Remington 870 platform. Its dimensions are optimized for a “short forend” configuration, contributing to a more modern sporting style.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of a forend is to provide a stable and comfortable gripping surface for cycling the action and controlling the firearm. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 20 Gauge Forend excels in this regard. Its ergonomic shape and the natural texture of the laminate walnut ensure a secure grip, even during dynamic shooting situations.

The performance during recoil management is noticeable. The wood’s density seems to absorb some of the violent jarring, leading to a smoother follow-up shot. The forend’s solid construction means there’s no unwanted movement or play when cycling the action, contributing to reliable operation.

A key strength is its ability to blend form and function. While it looks fantastic, it doesn’t compromise on its practical duties. The only minor drawback, if one could call it that, is the natural expansion and contraction of wood with significant humidity changes, though the laminate construction greatly mitigates this. However, for its intended purpose and price point, its functionality is exceptional.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the American Plainsman forend is its most striking feature. Boyds has opted for a minimalist aesthetic, stripping away any unnecessary bulk to create a sleek, modern profile. This short forend design gives the Remington 870 a more streamlined appearance, reminiscent of contemporary sporting shotguns.

The build quality is evident the moment you handle it. The laminate walnut feels dense and precisely machined. The finish is smooth to the touch, but the subtle texture of the wood grain provides enough purchase without being abrasive. It feels robust and well-crafted, suggesting it will endure years of use.

Ergonomically, it’s a pleasure to use. The shape fits comfortably in the hand, and the slightly reduced length compared to some factory forends can be beneficial for shooters of varying statures. The smooth finish means no snagging on clothing or gear, and the overall feel in hand is far superior to many plastic alternatives.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my extended use, the durability of this forend is impressive. The laminate walnut construction is inherently strong and resistant to impacts. I’ve encountered no cracks, splinters, or warping, even with regular handling and exposure to different environmental conditions.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A periodic wipe-down with a soft cloth is sufficient for most cleaning needs. For deeper cleaning, a wood-specific conditioner or a light application of furniture polish can maintain the finish’s luster and protect the wood. It’s designed to be a low-maintenance upgrade, which is ideal for any firearm accessory.

I have not encountered any significant failure points or areas of concern. The integral mounting system seems very secure, and the wood itself is robust. This forend is built to last, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing enhancement for the long term.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 20 Gauge Forend is designed for direct replacement and doesn’t typically come with additional accessories beyond the necessary hardware for its installation. Its primary “customization” lies in its aesthetic. The beautiful laminate walnut finish is available in various color laminations that Boyds offers, allowing users to choose a look that best complements their firearm.

While it integrates with the integral choke tube mounting system, it doesn’t introduce new ports or accessory rails for lights or grips, aligning with its minimalist design philosophy. Compatibility with aftermarket slings or other attachments would depend on existing points on the shotgun’s receiver or barrel clamp, rather than on the forend itself. The focus here is on the forend as a standalone aesthetic and functional upgrade.

For those seeking further customization of their Remington 870, this forend serves as a stylish foundation. It pairs well with other aftermarket components that focus on performance and aesthetics, rather than adding tactical clutter.

Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 20 Gauge Forend

Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 20 Gauge Forend?

This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 20 Gauge Forend is an excellent choice for shooters who prioritize aesthetics and feel alongside functionality. It’s perfect for those looking to upgrade their Remington 870 from a utilitarian tool to a more refined sporting firearm. If you appreciate the classic look of fine wood on a firearm and want to enhance the tactile experience of shooting, this forend is a fantastic investment.

Conversely, users seeking to transform their shotgun into a tactical platform with extensive accessory mounting capabilities should look elsewhere. Those on an extremely tight budget who are only concerned with basic function might also find more economical, albeit less appealing, options. However, for the enthusiast who values craftsmanship and a touch of elegance, this forend is hard to beat.

A complementary accessory that would enhance its use is a good quality shotgun sling, ideally one that attaches to existing swivel points on the shotgun, further complementing the refined sporting look.

Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 20 Gauge Forend

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks American Plainsman Remington 870 20 Gauge Forend is a truly outstanding upgrade for any Remington 870 owner looking to elevate their firearm’s appearance and handling. Its beautiful laminate walnut construction offers a blend of classic aesthetics and modern sporting style that factory forends simply cannot match. The superior build quality and ergonomic design translate directly into a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience, while its durability and low maintenance ensure it remains a beautiful enhancement for years to come.

At its price point, the value proposition is strong. You’re not just buying a piece of wood; you’re investing in enhanced aesthetics, improved ergonomics, and a tangible increase in the overall premium feel of your shotgun. For those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and want their firearm to look as good as it performs, I would absolutely recommend this forend. It’s a straightforward, effective, and beautiful way to give your Remington 870 a significant upgrade without sacrificing functionality.