Boosting Comfort and Control: Stock and Ergonomic Enhancements
One of the first areas to consider when customizing your Stevens 320 is the stock and its associated ergonomics. A stock that fits properly and feels comfortable in your hands can make a significant difference in your shooting experience. It affects everything from recoil management to target acquisition speed and overall accuracy.
Improving the Grip: Pistol Grips
Swapping out the standard stock for a pistol grip configuration can drastically alter the handling characteristics of your Stevens 320. Pistol grips offer a more aggressive and secure hold, which can be particularly beneficial for faster target acquisition and maneuverability in confined spaces.
When choosing a pistol grip, consider factors like material and grip texture. Many owners opt for polymer grips, known for their durability and resistance to the elements. Textured grips, whether achieved through molded patterns or rubber overmolds, offer enhanced purchase even in wet or sweaty conditions. Look for designs that feel natural in your hand and allow for a comfortable and secure grip during rapid firing. Many aftermarket options come with features like integrated finger grooves or ergonomic palm swells that improve comfort and promote a more consistent grip. The availability of rail systems on some pistol grip options, allows for the addition of lights or lasers.
Fine-Tuning the Fit: Adjustable Stocks and Tactical Stocks
If you want the ultimate in flexibility and adjustability, consider an adjustable stock. These stocks allow you to fine-tune the length of pull (LOP), the distance from the trigger to the butt of the stock, to perfectly match your physique and shooting style. A properly adjusted LOP contributes significantly to comfort, recoil management, and accuracy.
Tactical stocks often incorporate other features, such as adjustable cheek pieces. The cheek piece, also known as a cheek weld, determines how your cheek contacts the stock. An adjustable cheek piece helps position your eye at the correct height relative to the sights, critical for proper sight alignment and consistent shooting.
The installation of an adjustable stock usually requires some basic gunsmithing knowledge and possibly the use of specific tools. It is crucial to make sure that you are selecting a stock designed specifically for the Stevens 320. Double-check the instructions provided with the stock and don’t hesitate to consult a gunsmith if you’re unsure about any part of the installation process.
Better Control and Grip: Forends
The forend, located in the front part of the shotgun, plays a critical role in controlling the firearm. An improved forend offers enhanced grip, control, and often incorporates mounting points for accessories.
Aftermarket forends are frequently manufactured from tough polymers or sometimes even aluminum. Some are designed to improve the grip surface. Others incorporate ergonomic features, such as finger grooves, to maximize comfort.
Many aftermarket forends come with integrated Picatinny rails or M-LOK slots. These modular systems provide a convenient way to attach various accessories, such as weapon lights, vertical grips, or other tactical equipment. Installing a new forend usually requires taking apart the existing factory forend and installing the new one.
Enhancing Sight Acquisition: Sighting and Optics
Accurate aiming is essential for any firearm. Enhancing the sighting system on your Stevens 320 can significantly improve your performance, whether you are target shooting or engaging in self-defense scenarios.
Clarity and Precision: Upgraded Iron Sights
While the factory sights on the Stevens 320 are functional, they can be improved. Upgrading to enhanced iron sights can make a noticeable difference in target acquisition, especially in low-light conditions. Options include sights with high-visibility front posts, and ghost ring sights that enhance speed.
Consider sights with fiber optic inserts or tritium vials for low-light situations. These sights provide a bright and easy-to-see sight picture in dark or dimly lit environments. When choosing sights, verify their compatibility with your Stevens 320 and ensure you are comfortable with the sight picture and sight alignment.
Rapid Targeting: Red Dot Sights and Optics
Red dot sights are becoming increasingly popular on shotguns due to their fast target acquisition capabilities. A red dot sight projects a small red dot onto the target, allowing the shooter to acquire the target quickly without needing to align the front and rear sights. This is particularly useful in close-quarters combat situations where speed is paramount.
Many red dot sight options are available, from budget-friendly models to high-end optics. When selecting a red dot sight, consider factors like battery life, reticle size, and durability. Some red dot sights are specifically designed for use on shotguns and can withstand the recoil associated with these firearms.
Mounting the red dot sight on your Stevens 320 will likely involve attaching a Picatinny rail to the receiver.
Equipping for Tactical Applications: Tactical Accessories
For those who want to outfit their Stevens 320 for tactical applications, a range of accessories are available that enhance its functionality and effectiveness.
Adaptability: Rail Systems and Mounting Options
Rail systems provide a versatile platform for attaching a variety of accessories. The Picatinny rail is the most common standard and allows you to mount lights, lasers, vertical grips, and other equipment to your shotgun. M-LOK is a newer standard that uses slots for mounting accessories directly onto the forend or handguard.
Several manufacturers produce rail systems specifically for the Stevens 320. These rails attach to the receiver or forend of the shotgun and provide multiple mounting points. The choice between a full-length rail or individual rail sections depends on the number of accessories you want to mount and your personal preference.
Illuminating the Darkness: Weapon Lights
A weapon light is an essential accessory for home defense or low-light hunting situations. Weapon lights illuminate your target, allowing you to identify potential threats and improve your situational awareness.
When choosing a weapon light, consider the lumen output, which determines the brightness of the light. For home defense, a light with a minimum output of 200 lumens is generally recommended. Look for lights with a good balance of brightness and runtime, meaning the light will be bright enough without consuming the battery too quickly.
Optimizing Handling: Sling Systems
A sling allows you to carry your shotgun comfortably and securely. Choosing the right sling depends on your intended use and personal preferences.
Two-point slings attach to the forend and the stock, providing a secure and stable carrying system. Single-point slings attach to a single point on the receiver or stock, allowing for quick transitions and maneuverability.
Ensure that you select a sling designed for shotguns. Consider the material and attachment points.
Maintaining your investment: Maintenance and Cleaning Accessories
Regular maintenance is vital to keep your Stevens 320 operating smoothly and reliably. This includes regular cleaning and lubrication.
Keeping it Clean: Cleaning Kits
Invest in a high-quality cleaning kit that includes all the necessary tools for properly cleaning your shotgun. A typical cleaning kit should include a cleaning rod, brushes, patches, bore solvent, and gun oil.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your cleaning kit.
Maintaining the action: Gun Lubricants
Use high-quality gun lubricants to ensure that the internal components of your shotgun move freely. A good lubricant reduces friction, protects against wear, and helps prevent corrosion. Lubricate all moving parts, paying particular attention to the bolt, rails, and trigger mechanism.
Managing Ammunition and Reloads: Ammunition and Magazine/Shell Holders
Optimizing your reloading capabilities can prove valuable, especially in defensive or competition scenarios.
Selecting Ammunition
The Stevens 320 is chambered for 12 gauge shells, and a multitude of ammunition types are available. Match your chosen ammunition to your intended use, whether for home defense, hunting, or target practice. Consult the manual for guidelines regarding shot sizes and shell lengths.
Speed Up Reloads: Shell Holders
Shell holders provide a convenient way to carry extra rounds and speed up the reloading process. Several options are available, including stock-mounted shell holders, receiver-mounted side saddles, and belt-mounted shell holders. Choose the type of shell holder that best suits your needs and shooting style. Shell holders are a great way to keep rounds readily accessible for reloading.
The Stevens 320, a budget-friendly shotgun, becomes even more adaptable with the right accessories. From ergonomic enhancements that boost comfort and control, to sighting solutions and tactical gear, the possibilities are considerable. Ultimately, the best accessories are those that meet your specific needs and allow you to maximize the performance and enjoyment of your Stevens 320. Invest some time researching these accessories. Always prioritize safety and legal compliance.
