Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Browning BPS 20 Gauge Stock Review

What I Wish I Knew Before Buying the **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Browning BPS 20 Gauge Stock**

My Browning BPS 20 Gauge has been a steadfast companion for years, a reliable workhorse for everything from upland bird hunting to pest control around the property. However, the factory stock, while functional, always felt a bit… unfinished. It lacked the heft and the aesthetic refinement that I felt a shotgun of this caliber deserved. I was looking for an upgrade that would improve both the feel and the handling of the firearm, something that felt truly substantial. After a bit of searching, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Browning BPS 20 Gauge Stock caught my eye. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks is a name that carries weight in the aftermarket firearms community, known for their quality wood stocks. I considered a few other brands, but Boyds’ reputation for fit and finish, especially on Browning platforms, was a deciding factor. Upon arrival, my initial impression was one of solid craftsmanship; the wood felt dense and well-prepared, hinting at a significant improvement over the original.

Real-World Testing: Putting **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Browning BPS 20 Gauge Stock** to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing involved a thorough inspection and fitment on my Browning BPS 20 Gauge shotgun. The stock was installed in my workshop, a controlled environment where I could assess the precise fit. I checked for any gaps or misalignments around the receiver and action, which were thankfully non-existent.

The real test came during a weekend spent at a local shooting range and then out in the field for some informal clay busting. The increased weight and density of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Browning BPS 20 Gauge Stock were immediately noticeable during rapid fire. It seemed to absorb recoil more effectively, making follow-up shots feel more controlled and less jarring.

Ease of use was paramount, and thankfully, this replacement stock was intuitive. Once installed, it felt like a natural extension of the firearm. There were no complex adjustments or learning curves, just a more comfortable and solid shooting experience.

The only minor surprise was the slight difference in the grip angle compared to the factory stock. It wasn’t a negative, just something that required a brief adjustment period to get fully accustomed to. This new stock felt very secure in my hands, even with a light dusting of workshop grime.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, including multiple hunting trips and countless trips to the range, the Sterling stock has held up exceptionally well. The wood finish remains intact, showing no signs of cracking, excessive wear, or any degradation in its protective coating.

Durability has been outstanding. I’ve had occasions where the shotgun was leaned against rough surfaces or bumped lightly, and the stock has shown remarkable resistance to scuffs and dents. It’s handled varying weather conditions, from damp autumn mornings to dry summer afternoons, without any warping or structural issues.

Maintenance has been straightforward. A quick wipe-down with a soft cloth after a day in the field is usually all that’s needed. The finish resists oil and dirt reasonably well, making it easy to keep looking its best.

Compared to previous aftermarket stocks I’ve used on other firearms, this Boyds offering stands out. It doesn’t exhibit the stiffness or the potential for delamination that some less expensive, composite stocks can develop over time. It truly feels built to last, offering a premium feel that justifies its price point over basic replacements.

Breaking Down the Features of **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Browning BPS 20 Gauge Stock**

Specifications

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Browning BPS 20 Gauge Stock is designed specifically for the Browning BPS shotgun platform. Constructed from legal lumber, this stock emphasizes traditional craftsmanship. The product description highlights inletting on the top, side, and bottom of the stock, which is crucial for ensuring a solid positive grip.

This detailed inletting is not merely aesthetic; it contributes significantly to how the stock interfaces with the shotgun’s receiver and action. It ensures that the stock remains firmly in place, preventing any unwanted movement or play that could affect accuracy or handling. The inclusion of a recoil pad & sling swivel butt plate as well as an objective sling coupling adds significant practical functionality.

The buffer tube size is listed as Commercial or MIL-Spec, though this specification seems out of place for a traditional shotgun stock; it’s likely a generic listing from the product database. The primary material is, of course, wood, selected for its density and natural shock-absorbing qualities. This combination of materials and design features aims to enhance both the shooting experience and the firearm’s overall appearance.

Performance & Functionality

The primary job of a shotgun stock is to provide a stable platform for aiming and to manage recoil. The Sterling stock excels at both. The increased weight, compared to many polymer or lighter wood alternatives, aids in steadying the aim, particularly during longer waits in the field or when mounting for a quick shot.

A significant strength of this stock is its recoil mitigation. The inherent density of the hardwood, combined with the integrated recoil pad, noticeably softens the impact of heavier 20-gauge loads. This makes extended shooting sessions far more comfortable and can contribute to improved shot-to-shot consistency.

The biggest weakness, if it can be called that, is the added weight. For a hunter who prioritizes an ultra-lightweight setup for long treks, this might be a consideration. However, for most users, the benefits of stability and recoil reduction far outweigh this minor increase in heft. It meets and often exceeds expectations for a premium wood stock.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Sterling stock is immediately apparent. The wood is dense, smooth, and finished to a high standard, with a rich grain pattern that is far more appealing than basic synthetic materials. The inletting on the top, side, and bottom provides an excellent purchase, ensuring the stock feels securely anchored to the receiver.

Ergonomically, the stock offers a comfortable pistol grip that fits well in the hand. The length of pull is consistent with standard Browning BPS configurations, making the transition from a factory stock relatively seamless. The integrated sling swivel attachment points are a practical addition, allowing for easy mounting of a sling for carrying.

Practical design details include the smooth, slightly oiled finish which offers a good grip even with gloved hands. There’s a subtle contouring to the stock that enhances its feel when shouldering the firearm. The overall aesthetic is classic and robust, befitting a quality sporting shotgun.

Durability & Maintenance

Under normal use for a shotgun stock of this type, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Browning BPS 20 Gauge Stock is built for longevity. I anticipate this stock will last for decades, potentially outliving the firearm itself if properly cared for. The dense hardwood is inherently resistant to breakage and damage.

Maintenance is pleasantly simple. A periodic application of a good wood stock conditioner will keep the finish looking its best and protect the wood from drying out. Cleaning off mud, dust, and residue is as easy as wiping it down with a damp cloth, followed by a dry one.

Potential concerns are minimal. Extreme, prolonged immersion in water could theoretically cause issues with the wood finish, but this is true for any wood product. The inletting, being precisely machined, should maintain its integrity, but aggressive mishandling could, in rare cases, compromise it.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Browning BPS 20 Gauge Stock comes equipped with a recoil pad & sling swivel butt plate and an objective sling coupling. These integrated features are significant as they eliminate the need for immediate aftermarket accessory purchases for basic functionality. The recoil pad is functional, offering adequate cushioning, and the sling swivel points are robust.

While Boyds primarily offers finished stocks, their manufacturing process implies a high degree of precision. This means the stock is designed to interface perfectly with the standard Browning BPS receiver. There isn’t typically a need for customization of the stock itself beyond choosing different finishes or inletting options offered by Boyds.

However, users can certainly customize the shotgun’s overall setup with this stock. For instance, one might choose to upgrade the recoil pad to a higher-performance model or use specific sling attachments that complement the integrated swivels. The objective sling coupling allows for a front sling attachment, completing a versatile carrying system.

Pros and Cons of **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Browning BPS 20 Gauge Stock**

Who Should Buy **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Browning BPS 20 Gauge Stock**?

This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Browning BPS 20 Gauge Stock is ideal for Browning BPS 20 Gauge owners who are looking to upgrade from their factory synthetic or basic wood stock. It’s perfect for shooters who value traditional craftsmanship, enhanced handling characteristics, and a more comfortable shooting experience, especially with heavier loads. Hunters who spend long hours in the field and appreciate a well-balanced, solid firearm will find this stock particularly beneficial.

Those who prioritize an ultra-lightweight firearm for extreme backcountry treks might want to consider alternatives. Individuals seeking the absolute cheapest replacement option should also look elsewhere. However, for anyone who wants to invest in the longevity and performance of their BPS shotgun, this stock is a superb choice.

Consider pairing this stock with a quality sling that utilizes the integrated swivel attachments. A well-fitted shotgun case is also recommended to protect the beautiful wood finish during transport and storage.

Conclusion on **Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Browning BPS 20 Gauge Stock**

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Browning BPS 20 Gauge Stock is a testament to quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design. It transforms the feel and handling of the Browning BPS shotgun, offering a substantial improvement in recoil management and overall stability. The precise inletting and beautiful wood finish are indicative of Boyds’ commitment to producing high-quality aftermarket parts.

While the added weight is a minor trade-off, the benefits in terms of shooting comfort and control are significant. For its price of $117.99, this stock represents an excellent value proposition, delivering features and a level of refinement typically found in much more expensive options.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Browning BPS 20 Gauge Stock to any Browning BPS 20 Gauge owner looking to enhance their firearm’s performance, aesthetics, and shooting comfort. It’s a purchase that will likely be appreciated for many years to come.