Getting My Hands on the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens320 12 Gauge Forend
My Stevens 320 12 Gauge shotgun, while a workhorse, always felt a bit… unfinished in the grip department. The factory forend, made of a rather utilitarian polymer, was functional but lacked any real tactile appeal or ergonomic refinement. It also showed scuffs and scratches far too easily, detracting from the overall aesthetics. I was looking for something that would not only improve the handling and feel but also elevate the look of the firearm, turning it from a purely functional tool into something a bit more distinguished. After a bit of searching, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens320 12 Gauge Forend in walnut caught my eye.
The primary driver for this upgrade was a desire for a more substantial and comfortable grip, especially during longer shooting sessions. The original polymer forend felt a bit too slick, and I often found myself adjusting my grip more than I liked. I briefly considered some other aftermarket polymer options, but none offered the aesthetic or the promise of solid hardwood construction that Boyds is known for. There was a definite curiosity to see if a hardwood forend could truly make a tangible difference in handling and appearance.
My initial impression upon receiving the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens320 12 Gauge Forend was one of quality. The weight felt right, and the distinct grain of the walnut was immediately apparent and appealing. It had a solid, substantial feel that the original plastic simply couldn’t match.
Real-World Testing: Putting Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens320 12 Gauge Forend to the Test
First Use Experience
I fitted this walnut forend onto my Stevens 320 at home in my workshop. The installation was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a few minutes to ensure a snug and secure fit. My initial range trip was focused on how the new forend felt during practical use.
I tested it over several shooting sessions, alternating between clay pigeon practice and some informal target shooting. The conditions varied from a crisp autumn morning to a slightly damp, overcast afternoon. The grip remained consistent and secure, even with slightly damp hands from the moisture in the air.
The ease of use was immediately apparent. The slightly more textured surface of the walnut, combined with its shape, provided a more positive purchase than the original polymer. There were no real surprises, just a consistent and comfortable feel from the first shot.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and hundreds of rounds, the Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens320 12 Gauge Forend continues to impress. It has held up remarkably well to repeated handling and the rigors of range days. The walnut has developed a subtle patina, which I find quite attractive, and it has resisted any significant scuffs or deep scratches, unlike its predecessor.
Durability has been excellent. There are no visible cracks, no loosening, and the finish remains intact. Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a dry cloth is usually all it needs. For more thorough cleaning, a lightly damp cloth followed by a dry one works perfectly.
Compared to other polymer forends I’ve used on various firearms over the years, this hardwood option offers a superior tactile experience and aesthetic. It feels more robust and more comfortable, demonstrating a clear advantage over many budget-friendly, mass-produced plastic parts.
Breaking Down the Features of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens320 12 Gauge Forend
Specifications
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens320 12 Gauge Forend is crafted from Walnut hardwood, specifically designed for the Stevens 320 12 Gauge shotgun. It features a Standard gun rail interface, ensuring compatibility with the factory setup. The package includes only the forend itself, with no additional accessories.
The use of Walnut is a key specification, offering a natural material that is both durable and aesthetically pleasing. This is a significant upgrade from the typical Polymer found on many entry-level shotguns. Its Standard rail design means no modification is required for installation on compatible Stevens 320 models.
Performance & Functionality
This forend excels at its primary job: providing a comfortable and secure grip. The shape and material contribute to a more stable platform for cycling the action and controlling recoil. It offers a tangible improvement in handling, making follow-up shots feel more manageable.
The main strength is the ergonomic feel and natural grip offered by the hardwood. It simply feels better in the hand than standard polymer. A minor point of consideration is that while durable, hardwood is inherently less resistant to heavy impacts than some modern composites; however, for typical shotgun use, this is not a significant drawback.
For its intended purpose, this forend meets and exceeds expectations. It transforms the feel of the shotgun, making it more enjoyable to shoot and handle.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is immediately noticeable. The precision-machined Walnut is smooth to the touch, with a pleasing weight that adds a bit of heft without making the firearm feel cumbersome. The finish is consistent, showcasing the natural beauty of the wood grain.
Ergonomically, the design is a marked improvement over the factory piece. The contours are comfortable for a variety of hand sizes, and the texture of the wood provides a secure grip even without aggressive checkering. There was no learning curve; it felt natural from the moment I installed it.
Practical design elements include the absence of sharp edges and a smooth transition to the barrel. This attention to detail contributes to a pleasant user experience, allowing for smooth operation of the pump action.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its hardwood construction and solid build, this forend is likely to last for the lifespan of the shotgun under normal use. It’s designed for repeated, practical application, not extreme abuse.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down is usually sufficient to keep it clean and presentable. For deeper cleaning, a mild wood cleaner and a soft cloth can be used, followed by a light application of furniture polish or oil to maintain the finish and prevent drying.
The potential failure point for any wooden stock accessory would be extreme impact leading to cracks or splinters. However, for its intended use as a forend on a 12 gauge shotgun, this is a remote concern.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens320 12 Gauge Forend comes as a singular component. There are no included accessories.
Customization options are limited to the inherent beauty of the wood itself. Different wood types or finishes might be available from Boyds for other models, but for this specific product, the Walnut finish is the primary aesthetic choice. Its compatibility with the Standard gun rail ensures it fits without needing specialized mounting hardware.
Pros and Cons of Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens320 12 Gauge Forend
Pros
- Superior Aesthetics: The Walnut wood offers a classic, attractive look that significantly enhances the firearm’s appearance.
- Enhanced Ergonomics: The hardwood provides a more comfortable and secure grip compared to standard polymer forends.
- Solid Build Quality: The precision-machined hardwood feels durable and substantial in hand.
- Improved Handling: A more positive grip can contribute to better control and smoother operation of the shotgun’s action.
- Easy Installation: Fits directly onto the Stevens 320 with standard mounting, requiring no specialized tools or modifications.
Cons
- Price: At $79.00, it’s a more expensive option than basic polymer replacements.
- No Included Accessories: Comes as a standalone part, unlike some aftermarket kits.
- Wood Vulnerability: While durable, wood is inherently less resistant to extreme impacts or prolonged moisture exposure than some synthetic materials.
Who Should Buy Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens320 12 Gauge Forend?
This forend is an excellent choice for owners of the Stevens 320 12 Gauge shotgun who are looking to upgrade both the performance and the appearance of their firearm. It’s ideal for individuals who appreciate the tactile feel and classic look of real wood and want a more substantial grip. This model is perfect for recreational shooters, hunters, or anyone who wants to personalize their shotgun beyond its factory configuration.
Those who prioritize absolute ruggedness above all else, or who frequently subject their firearms to extreme environmental conditions where wood might be less forgiving, might want to consider other options. However, for the vast majority of practical shotgun users, this upgrade is more than sufficient. A basic gun cleaning kit and perhaps a quality wood polish would be the only recommended complementary items.
Conclusion on Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens320 12 Gauge Forend
The Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks Stevens320 12 Gauge Forend delivers on its promise of improved aesthetics and handling. The Walnut construction is not only visually appealing but also provides a more comfortable and secure grip than the standard polymer option. For its price of $79.00, the value proposition is strong, offering a significant upgrade in both feel and look for your Stevens 320.
I would readily recommend this forend to any Stevens 320 owner looking to enhance their shotgun. It’s a simple, effective upgrade that transforms the tactile experience and aesthetic of the firearm. If you appreciate quality materials and a classic look, this hardwood forend is a worthwhile investment.