Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 Review

The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 Made a Bold First Impression

The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 isn’t just another accessory; it’s a transformation for your shotgun. Hogue is known for quality, and this pistol grip and forend replacement promises enhanced control and recoil absorption for the venerable Remington 870. I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype and could provide a noticeable improvement to my shotgun’s handling.

I’ve spent years lugging around and firing 12-gauge shotguns in various conditions, from dense woods while deer hunting to open ranges practicing clay shooting. The factory Remington 870 stock and forend, while functional, always felt a little… lacking. Aftermarket options always promised an improvement in grip and recoil mitigation.

Unboxing the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870, I was immediately impressed by the feel of the rubber. It felt solid, grippy, and far more substantial than the factory plastic. The pistol grip had a comfortable contour, and the forend promised a more secure hold.

Compared to similar offerings from Magpul and Mesa Tactical, the Hogue stood out for its simplicity and focus on tactile feel. I’d previously used a Magpul SGA stock, which, while offering adjustability, sometimes felt too bulky. The Hogue aimed for a more streamlined, organic feel, and I was drawn to that. It was also a great alternative to the Mesa Tactical Urbino pistol grip stock, which is more expensive and requires specialized tools to install.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The quality seemed excellent, and the design promised improvements. I was eager to get to the range and see if the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 could live up to my expectations.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 was at my local shooting range. I spent the afternoon putting it through its paces with a variety of loads, from light target rounds to heavier buckshot. The weather was cooperative: dry and sunny, ideal for testing.

The immediate difference was the improved grip and feel. The rubber forend provided a much more secure and comfortable hold than the factory plastic, especially when cycling the action quickly. The pistol grip allowed for a more controlled and stable shooting platform. There were no issues when racking rounds of different sizes or loads.

The only initial issue was the slight creaking sound from the pistol grip, as noted by others. This was easily overlooked, and I was able to focus on performance. Recoil felt noticeably reduced, especially with heavier loads.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 has proven its worth. The rubber has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of wear or deterioration. It has seen range trips, a pheasant hunt in light rain, and even a dusty weekend of informal clay shooting.

Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Occasionally, I use a silicone-based gun cleaner to keep the rubber supple and prevent it from drying out. The grip is still solid and comfortable to use during different situations.

Compared to my previous experiences with the factory stock, the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is a significant improvement. The enhanced grip, improved recoil absorption, and overall comfort have made shooting my Remington 870 a more enjoyable and controlled experience. This is more durable, reliable, and feels better in the hand.

Breaking Down the Features of Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870

Specifications

• The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is designed specifically for the Remington 870 12-gauge shotgun. It replaces the factory stock and forend with a pistol grip and matching forend.
• The grip and forend are molded from a durable synthetic rubber that is resistant to solvents and oils. The rubber offers superior grip and recoil absorption compared to traditional polymer or wood furniture.

The choice of rubber over polymer is significant. The rubber provides a more tactile and secure grip, especially in wet or cold conditions. This enhances control and reduces the risk of slippage, leading to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots.

Performance & Functionality

• The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 excels in providing enhanced control and recoil absorption. The pistol grip allows for a more natural and stable shooting position.
• The rubber forend offers a superior grip, facilitating faster and more reliable cycling of the action. The shorter forend design also eliminates interference when mounting a shell holder on the receiver.

The primary strength of the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is its improved ergonomics. The pistol grip provides a more comfortable and secure hold, while the rubber material effectively dampens recoil. The minor creaking of the grip is a small price to pay for these benefits.

Design & Ergonomics

• The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is designed for both functionality and aesthetics. The pistol grip is well-shaped and fits comfortably in the hand.
• The rubber material provides a non-slip surface that enhances control and confidence. The forend’s shorter length is a thoughtful design choice that improves compatibility with accessories.

The build quality is excellent, with durable rubber that feels substantial and long-lasting. The pistol grip is comfortable, even during extended shooting sessions. The pistol grip helps to reduce recoil fatigue.

Durability & Maintenance

• The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is built to withstand years of use. The durable rubber material is resistant to solvents, oils, and extreme temperatures.
• Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the grip and forend clean. Deeper cleaning can be accomplished with a gun cleaning solvent.

The rubber’s resistance to solvents and oils is particularly important. This ensures that the grip and forend will not degrade or become sticky over time, even with regular exposure to gun cleaning products. It also extends the product’s life.

Accessories and Customization Options

• The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is primarily a drop-in replacement for the factory stock and forend. It does not come with any additional accessories.
• However, it is compatible with a wide range of Remington 870 accessories, such as shell holders, slings, and optics. It also fits different Remington 870 models.

While the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 doesn’t offer extensive customization options on its own, its compatibility with other accessories is a major advantage. This allows users to tailor their shotgun to their specific needs and preferences. It is easy to add a shell holder, sling, or optic.

Pros and Cons of Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870

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Who Should Buy Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870?

• Perfect for: Home defense users looking for better control, hunters seeking a more secure grip in adverse conditions, and recreational shooters wanting to reduce recoil. The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is a great upgrade for anyone looking to improve the ergonomics and handling of their Remington 870.
• Who should skip this product? Those looking for highly adjustable stocks or modular systems with extensive customization options. Those focused on tactical options and prefer polymer, should also skip this product.
• Must-have accessories or modifications? A good quality shell holder is a practical addition for home defense or hunting. A sling is also recommended for easier carrying.

Conclusion on Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870

The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is a worthwhile upgrade for any Remington 870 owner seeking enhanced control and recoil absorption. Hogue has delivered a quality product that significantly improves the shooting experience. The rubber material is durable and provides a superior grip compared to the factory stock and forend.

At around $34, the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 represents excellent value for money. The price is justified by the improved ergonomics, enhanced control, and recoil reduction it provides. It’s an affordable and effective way to breathe new life into your shotgun.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 to anyone looking to upgrade their Remington 870. It’s a simple, effective, and affordable way to improve your shotgun’s performance and handling. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference!

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