The Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 Made a Bold First Impression
The Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 pistol grip is a seemingly simple addition to a classic shotgun, but it promises a significant upgrade in recoil management and handling. Hogue is known for their quality rubber grips, and the “TAMER” designation suggests they’ve put some serious thought into reducing felt recoil. After years of shooting shotguns with standard wooden stocks, I was intrigued by the potential for improved comfort and control.
I’ve been shooting trap and skeet for over a decade, and more recently, I’ve started exploring home defense applications for a Remington 870. The standard stock, while functional, always left me with a bruised shoulder after a long day at the range. My search for a solution led me to the Hogue TAMER PG REM 870.
The package arrived in a simple, no-frills cardboard box. Upon opening it, the grip itself felt solid and well-made. The rubber felt slightly tacky, but not unpleasantly so; it suggested a secure grip even in wet conditions. Compared to similar pistol grips from Pachmayr and Magpul, the Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 felt noticeably softer and more forgiving.
I chose the Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 because of the brand’s reputation for quality and the specific “TAMER” feature, which implied superior recoil absorption. I was cautiously optimistic. The promise of a more comfortable shooting experience definitely had me excited to install it and head to the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 at my local shooting range on a crisp autumn afternoon. I ran about 100 rounds of birdshot and 25 rounds of buckshot through my Remington 870. The difference compared to the factory stock was immediately noticeable.
The pistol grip allowed for a much more aggressive stance, keeping my weight forward and helping to mitigate muzzle flip. Even with the heavier buckshot loads, the recoil felt significantly reduced. There was a slight learning curve to getting used to the new grip angle, but it quickly became intuitive.
After the first 25 rounds, I noticed a small amount of slippage with very heavy loads, but readjusting the grip solved the problem immediately. Overall, my first impression was highly positive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 has held up admirably. There are no signs of tearing or significant wear, even after repeated exposure to cleaning solvents and oils. The rubber remains supple and grippy.
Cleaning is a breeze. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous experience with wooden stocks, which required occasional oiling and maintenance, the Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 is virtually maintenance-free.
The grip has far exceeded my expectations. It’s allowed me to shoot for longer periods with less fatigue and greater accuracy, especially during follow-up shots.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue TAMER PG REM 870
Specifications
- The Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 is specifically designed for the Remington 870 shotgun. It offers a pistol grip configuration for enhanced control.
- It is molded from a durable synthetic rubber that absorbs recoil. It weighs approximately 8 ounces, adding minimal weight to the firearm.
The non-spongy, non-tacky rubber provides a comfortable and secure grip. This grip enhances handling and reduces felt recoil, resulting in improved shooting accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 excels at its primary function: recoil reduction. The rubber compound effectively absorbs a significant portion of the recoil energy.
While the pistol grip configuration might not be ideal for traditional shotgun sports like trap, it provides a significant advantage in tactical situations. The improved control and faster target acquisition make the Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 a valuable upgrade for home defense or law enforcement applications. There is very minor slippage with heavy magnum loads in hot weather.
The grip fully meets my expectations. It delivers on its promise of improved recoil management and enhanced handling.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 boasts a simple yet effective design. The textured rubber provides a secure and comfortable grip, even with wet or gloved hands.
The grip is incredibly user-friendly. Installation is straightforward and requires minimal tools. The ergonomic design promotes a natural and comfortable shooting posture.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 is built to last. The durable synthetic rubber is resistant to solvents, oils, and extreme temperatures.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down after each range session is all that’s required to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 itself doesn’t require many accessories, as it is a standalone grip. However, it can be paired with other Remington 870 upgrades, such as tactical lights or shell carriers.
The grip is compatible with most Remington 870 aftermarket accessories. This provides a wide range of customization options for the end user.
Pros and Cons of Hogue TAMER PG REM 870
Pros
- Significantly reduces felt recoil, allowing for longer shooting sessions with less fatigue.
- Provides enhanced control and faster target acquisition, making it ideal for home defense scenarios.
- Durable synthetic rubber construction ensures long-lasting performance in harsh conditions.
- Easy to install and maintain, requiring minimal technical expertise.
- Affordable price point makes it an accessible upgrade for most Remington 870 owners.
Cons
- The pistol grip configuration may not be ideal for traditional shotgun sports.
- Slight slippage can occur with very heavy magnum loads, especially in hot weather.
Who Should Buy Hogue TAMER PG REM 870?
The Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 is perfect for: home defense enthusiasts, law enforcement personnel, and anyone looking to improve the handling and reduce the felt recoil of their Remington 870 shotgun. It’s especially beneficial for shooters who are sensitive to recoil or who frequently shoot heavier loads.
Those who primarily use their Remington 870 for traditional shotgun sports like trap or skeet might find the pistol grip configuration less suitable than a conventional stock.
A sling attachment point would be a useful addition. Otherwise, no other modifications are really necessary to make the most of the Hogue TAMER PG REM 870.
Conclusion on Hogue TAMER PG REM 870
The Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 is an exceptional upgrade for the Remington 870 shotgun. It effectively reduces felt recoil, enhances control, and is built to withstand years of use.
At a price of $25.49, the Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 offers incredible value. The benefits it provides far outweigh the modest cost.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Hogue TAMER PG REM 870 to anyone looking to improve their Remington 870’s performance and comfort. It’s a simple and affordable way to transform your shotgun into a more effective and enjoyable firearm. Upgrade your 870 today and experience the difference!