Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock Review

Was the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock the Right Choice?

For years, my trusty Remington 870 20 Gauge has served me well, a workhorse through countless field trips and practice sessions. However, the stock that came with it, while functional, always felt a bit… off. As a left-handed shooter, the ergonomics were never quite perfect, leading to subtle but persistent discomfort during longer shooting days. This is precisely what led me to seek out a dedicated left-handed solution, and after some deliberation, I landed on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock. Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks has a reputation for crafting solid wooden stocks, and the Sterling model promised a clean, classic look with improved handling.

My decision to replace the original was driven by a desire for a more natural shooting posture and a better grip, especially during those crucial moments when a smooth, controlled swing is paramount. I’d toyed with the idea of aftermarket synthetic stocks, but the tactile feel and timeless aesthetic of wood always drew me back in. Compared to the factory offering, which felt a bit too generic, this particular Boyds model seemed to offer a more refined experience. My first impression upon unboxing was one of quiet satisfaction; the wood grain was appealing, and the initial fit felt promising.

Real-World Testing: Putting the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, a familiar environment where I could focus on the feel and function of the new stock. I mounted the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock on my Remington 870 20 Gauge and immediately noticed the difference in how it settled into my shoulder. The cast and pitch felt more naturally aligned with my left-handed shooting stance. The grip was comfortable, providing a secure hold without being overly aggressive.

During a series of clay pigeon throws, the increased comfort was evident. I didn’t experience the slight wrist fatigue I sometimes felt with the old stock. The recoil seemed to be managed effectively, dissipating smoothly into the shoulder. There were no immediate issues or surprises; the fit was snug, and the overall handling felt like a significant upgrade.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several weeks of consistent use at the range and a couple of outings into the field for bird hunting, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock has held up exceptionally well. The wood finish has resisted minor scuffs from casual contact with brush and gear. There are no signs of the wood cracking or splintering, which was a slight concern I had with any wooden stock.

Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a soft cloth after each use keeps it clean, and I occasionally apply a light coat of furniture polish to maintain the finish. Compared to some of the cheaper synthetic stocks I’ve encountered in the past, which could become slick when wet or develop squeaks, this wooden stock feels far more robust and reliable. It doesn’t require any complex cleaning routines, making it a low-maintenance, high-reward addition.

Breaking Down the Features of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock

Specifications

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock is crafted from top-grade hardwood, a material choice that immediately conveys a sense of durability and classic appeal. The stock features a very short forend, which can be beneficial for faster handling and a more compact feel, especially for those with shorter reach or who prefer a quicker pump action. The description also mentions a very tight action fit, suggesting that the stock is designed for a precise and secure connection to the receiver, minimizing any wobble or looseness. This level of precision in manufacturing is crucial for consistent shooting performance.

The specifications list also indicates that both left and right-handed models are interchangeable, which is a peculiar note for a specifically left-handed stock, but likely refers to the receiver fitment itself rather than the stock’s inherent hand orientation. The inclusion of “Finished” implies that the stock comes ready for immediate installation without requiring extensive sanding or sealing, saving valuable time. For a single stock unit, the build quality and attention to detail in its construction are paramount.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function – providing a stable and ergonomic platform for shooting – the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock performs admirably. The left-handed cast ensures that my eye is properly aligned with the sights, reducing the need to cant my head unnaturally. This alignment contributes directly to more consistent and accurate shots. The smooth operation of the pump action is enhanced by the comfortable grip provided by the stock.

The main strength of this stock is its dedicated left-handed design, which addresses a fundamental ergonomic need for left-handed shooters. Its primary weakness, if one can call it that, is that the “very short forend” might not suit everyone; for those with larger hands or a preference for a longer grip on the forend, it could feel a bit cramped. However, for its intended purpose, it meets and often exceeds expectations for comfort and control.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Boyds stock leans towards a classic, understated elegance. The hardwood construction gives it a substantial feel, and the finish is smooth to the touch, showing off the wood grain nicely. The overall build quality feels solid, with no discernible hollowness or cheap plastic components.

Ergonomically, the stock is a significant improvement over a standard, non-handed offering. The specific left-hand cast is the standout feature here, promoting a natural cheek weld and sight picture. The shape of the stock flows well, making it comfortable to shoulder repeatedly. The shorter forend, while a performance consideration, also contributes to a more compact and maneuverable feel in the hands.

Durability & Maintenance

The hardwood construction of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock suggests a good degree of inherent durability for its intended use. Wood, when properly treated and cared for, can last for decades. I haven’t encountered any signs of premature wear, like splitting or excessive denting, after my testing period.

Maintenance is straightforward, as is typical for wooden firearm furniture. A regular cleaning to remove dirt and oil, followed by occasional application of a wood conditioning oil or wax, should preserve its appearance and integrity. There are no complex parts to maintain or replace on the stock itself, making it a very user-friendly component.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock is primarily a replacement part, and as such, it doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories. The key “accessory” is the stock itself, ready to be fitted. Given that it’s designed for the Remington 870 platform, it will naturally integrate with the existing shotgun hardware.

While Boyds offers various finishes and styles for their stocks, this particular Sterling model is sold as a complete, finished unit. Customization options would largely involve refinishing or altering the wood yourself, which is a common practice for enthusiasts who want to personalize their firearms further. However, for those seeking an immediate upgrade, its “finished” state is a significant advantage.

Pros and Cons of the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock

Who Should Buy the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock?

This Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock is an excellent choice for any left-handed shooter who owns a Remington 870 20 Gauge and is looking for an ergonomic upgrade. It’s ideal for those who appreciate the tactile feel, warmth, and classic aesthetics of a well-made wooden stock. If you’ve experienced discomfort or misalignment with a standard or right-handed stock, this model offers a direct and effective solution.

Those who should probably skip this product might be left-handed shooters who have exceptionally long arms and prefer a significantly longer forend for their grip. Also, individuals who frequently subject their firearms to extreme abuse in harsh, wet environments and prefer the lower maintenance of synthetics might want to reconsider, though proper care mitigates this. For anyone looking for a more refined, comfortable, and naturally aligned shooting experience with their Remington 870 20 Gauge, this stock is a strong contender. Consider pairing it with a good quality recoil pad if you’re particularly sensitive to felt recoil, though the stock itself handles it well.

Conclusion on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock

The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Sterling Left Hand Remington 870 20 Gauge Stock has proven to be a worthwhile investment, effectively addressing the ergonomic needs of a left-handed shooter. Its premium hardwood construction and precise fit contribute to a solid, reliable feel that enhances both shooting comfort and control. The dedicated left-hand cast is a game-changer for those who have struggled with non-handed or right-handed stocks.

For its price point of $113.00, the value proposition is quite strong. You’re receiving a beautifully crafted, functional, and durable stock that significantly improves the shooting experience over a generic factory offering. I would absolutely recommend this stock to any left-handed shooter looking to get the most out of their Remington 870 20 Gauge. If you value a natural shooting posture and appreciate the classic beauty of wood, this Boyds stock is a superb choice that won’t disappoint.