Grit & Gear: Testing the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 11 Type 2 12 Gauge Stock
As a gear and equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across diverse environments, I’ve come to appreciate the nuanced differences between a functional piece of equipment and one that truly elevates performance. My search for a replacement stock for my venerable Remington Model 11, specifically a Type 2 variant, led me to Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 11 Type 2 12 Gauge Stock. The original stock, a casualty of time and a rather enthusiastic encounter with a dropped tool in the workshop, needed a faithful successor that wouldn’t compromise the shotgun’s classic lines or handling. This particular unit from Boyds promised a return to form, utilizing the durable beauty of hardwood.
The need for this replacement became critical after my previous stock sustained irreparable damage. It wasn’t just about aesthetics; a compromised stock can affect the firearm’s balance and, more importantly, its safe operation. The initial impression of the Boyds stock was one of solid craftsmanship. The walnut material felt substantial, and the pre-drilled areas for tangs and inlets appeared precise, suggesting a good fit right out of the box. While I considered generic aftermarket options, their often-unpredictable quality and fit made me lean towards a specialized manufacturer like Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks. My first reaction was a quiet satisfaction, a feeling that I might have found a worthy successor.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 11 Type 2 12 Gauge Stock to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing began immediately upon receipt, fitting the stock to my Remington Model 11 in my home workshop. The environment was clean, well-lit, and equipped with standard gunsmithing tools, allowing for careful examination of the fit. The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 11 Type 2 12 Gauge Stock required only minor adjustments, primarily around the tang inlet, which is common for period firearms where tolerances might have varied. These adjustments were easily managed with a few passes of fine-grit sandpaper and a checkering file.
Performance was observed during bench testing and a subsequent trip to a controlled shooting range. I fired a variety of 12-gauge loads, from light target loads to heavier field rounds, to assess handling and recoil management. The stock provided a comfortable shoulder purchase, and the wood grain offered a reassuring, non-slip feel even with light perspiration on my hands. No significant issues or surprises presented themselves; the fit was remarkably good for a part designed for a firearm of this age.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several weeks, the Boyds stock has become a permanent fixture on my Model 11, seeing regular use during range sessions and careful storage. The walnut has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of cracking or significant wear despite being exposed to typical workshop dust and occasional light moisture from humidity. Its durability has been impressive; it feels as solid now as it did on day one.
Maintenance has been straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a soft cloth after each use keeps the finish clean and prevents dust accumulation. I occasionally apply a light coat of gunstock wax to preserve the wood and its natural luster. Compared to the factory original, which had developed hairline cracks over decades of use, this replacement from Boyds feels substantially more robust. It has outperformed my expectations for a replacement part, offering a blend of classic aesthetics and modern manufacturing quality.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 11 Type 2 12 Gauge Stock
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 11 Type 2 12 Gauge Stock is crafted from select hardwood, specifically walnut, offering a rich, classic aesthetic. Key dimensions include a Top Tang Width of 5/8″ and a Top Tang Length of 3 5/8″, crucial for secure receiver engagement. The bottom tang specifications are a Bottom Tang Width of 5/8″ and a Bottom Tang Length of 3 1/4″.
The stock’s dimensions at the receiver are a Stock Height of 1 5/8″ and a Stock Width of 1 7/16″, contributing to the overall balance and feel of the firearm. Its Overall Length of Stock is 13 1/2″, providing a traditional length of pull. This hardwood stock also comes with a Boyds’ Black Plastic Buttplate, offering a durable and practical end to the stock. These precise measurements are critical for a proper fit, ensuring the stock integrates seamlessly with the Remington Model 11 receiver and action.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of any firearm stock is to provide a stable platform for shouldering and aiming, and this Remington 11 Type 2 stock from Boyds excels at this. Its performance is directly tied to the quality of the wood and the precision of its shaping. The walnut material offers excellent shock absorption, noticeable when firing heavier loads, which translates to a more comfortable shooting experience. Its primary strength lies in its precise inletting, which minimizes any looseness or movement against the receiver and tangs.
A potential weakness, though minor, can be the slight variation in wood density affecting its weight distribution compared to the original, depending on the specific piece of walnut used. However, for its intended purpose as a replacement or upgrade, this model meets and often exceeds expectations, particularly given its attractive price point. It allows the Remington Model 11 to feel more ‘alive’ and controllable than it did with a worn-out original.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this Boyds stock is rooted in tradition, mirroring the elegant lines of the original Remington Model 11 stocks. The walnut finish provides a beautiful, deep luster that is both visually appealing and tactilely pleasing. Build quality is evident in the smooth finish and the tight fit of the included black plastic buttplate, which feels secure and functional.
Ergonomically, the stock is well-proportioned for a classic 12-gauge shotgun. The grip area feels comfortable in the hand, and the transition from the receiver to the comb is smooth, promoting a consistent cheek weld. There was no significant learning curve; it felt familiar and natural from the moment I shouldered the firearm. Practical design details like the inletting for the tangs are cleanly executed, ensuring a solid connection.
Durability & Maintenance
In terms of durability, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 11 Type 2 12 Gauge Stock is built to last. Walnut is a dense hardwood known for its strength and resilience, making it suitable for a tool that experiences recoil and potential bumps. Under normal use, this stock should provide decades of reliable service, significantly outlasting many composite or lesser quality wooden stocks.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving regular cleaning and occasional waxing to protect the finish. There are no complex parts to fail, meaning the potential failure points are limited to the wood itself. Potential concerns might include extreme environmental exposure (prolonged dampness or excessive dryness) that could cause expansion or contraction, but this is inherent to any high-quality wood product and easily managed with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular offering from Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks is primarily the stock itself. It comes with a Boyds’ Black Plastic Buttplate already attached, which is a functional and durable end cap. The stock is designed to accept standard Remington Model 11 tangs and action bars.
While Boyds offers a wide range of customizable finishes and features on their other products, this specific Remington 11 Type 2 stock is presented in a finished walnut. There are no additional accessories included, such as specialized recoil pads or custom grip caps, as this is a direct replacement part designed to maintain the original firearm’s classic configuration. Its strength lies in its direct fit and finish, not in extensive add-ons.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 11 Type 2 12 Gauge Stock
Pros
- Authentic Material and Finish: Crafted from high-quality walnut, it offers a beautiful and traditional look, mirroring original factory stocks.
- Precise Inletting: The stock features accurate cuts for the tangs, ensuring a snug and stable fit on the Remington Model 11 receiver.
- Solid Build Quality: The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks reputation for durability is evident; this replacement stock feels robust and well-made.
- Improved Ergonomics: Provides a comfortable and natural feel, enhancing the handling and shootability of the firearm.
- Excellent Value: Offers a premium hardwood replacement at a price point that represents significant value for a classic firearm restoration.
Cons
- Minor Fitting Adjustments May Be Needed: Due to variations in older firearms, some minor sanding or fitting might be required for a perfect flush fit.
- No Customization Options on this Specific Model: This particular model comes finished and ready to install, lacking the extensive customization options available on other Boyds products.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 11 Type 2 12 Gauge Stock?
This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 11 Type 2 12 Gauge Stock is an ideal purchase for owners of the Remington Model 11 shotgun who are looking to restore, repair, or upgrade their firearm with a high-quality, aesthetically pleasing stock. It is perfect for enthusiasts who value the classic look and feel of a traditional wooden stock. This includes collectors seeking to bring a vintage firearm back to its former glory, as well as shooters who want a more durable and refined replacement for a damaged or worn original.
Those who should probably skip this product are individuals seeking a modern, tactical, or highly customizable stock with adjustable features. If you are looking for polymer construction, adjustable length of pull, or integrated accessory rails, this classic hardwood replacement will not meet those needs. For those choosing this Boyds stock, a good quality gunsmith’s screwdriver set and potentially some fine-grit sandpaper and a checkering file are recommended for installation and fine-tuning.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 11 Type 2 12 Gauge Stock
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 11 Type 2 12 Gauge Stock stands out as an exceptional product for anyone needing to replace or upgrade the stock on their Remington Model 11. It strikes an excellent balance between classic aesthetics, robust build quality, and functional performance. The walnut material feels substantial and looks beautiful, while the precise inletting minimizes fitting headaches.
Considering its price, the value proposition is undeniable; you receive a premium, durable hardwood stock that revives the character and handling of a classic shotgun. I would personally recommend this stock to any Remington Model 11 owner looking for a faithful and high-quality replacement. If you appreciate the heritage of your firearm and want a stock that honors that legacy while providing reliable performance, this Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Remington 11 Type 2 12 Gauge Stock is a wise investment.