What Makes Hogue Remington 870 20 GA. OverMold Shotgun Forend – 1 out of 2 models Stand Out?
The Hogue Remington 870 20 GA. OverMold Shotgun Forend – 1 out of 2 models is designed to enhance the grip and control of your trusty 20-gauge shotgun. This forend, crafted by Hogue, promises a comfortable and secure hold, even in challenging conditions. Its simple, yet effective design makes it a worthwhile upgrade for any 870 enthusiast looking for improved handling.
I’ve always believed that the forend is the primary interface between the shooter and a pump-action shotgun. After a particularly slick and fumbled attempt to cycle my 870 during a dove hunt last fall, I knew I needed a better grip solution. The Hogue OverMold seemed like the perfect blend of affordability and enhanced performance to remedy the situation.
Upon receiving the Hogue forend, the first thing I noticed was the quality of the OverMold material. It felt substantial, yet pliable, offering a reassuring tactile experience. The weight was negligible, a welcome surprise considering some aftermarket forends can throw off the balance of the shotgun.
I considered several other options, including a more aggressive textured forend from Magpul and a traditional wood replacement. Ultimately, the Hogue’s reputation for comfort and its price point made it the most appealing choice. It promised an upgrade without a complete overhaul.
My initial excitement was definitely tempered by a bit of skepticism. Could a simple grip really make that much of a difference? After a few minutes of handling and dry-firing, I was cautiously optimistic. The feel in hand was a significant improvement, and I was eager to put it to the test.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Remington 870 20 GA. OverMold Shotgun Forend – 1 out of 2 models to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Hogue OverMold forend was at the local shooting range, focusing on fast cycling drills. I wanted to simulate the rapid follow-up shots one might need during upland bird hunting. The OverMold’s enhanced grip immediately translated to smoother, more confident cycling.
During this initial test, the weather was cooperative, but I made sure to introduce some “adverse conditions”. I sprayed the forend with water and even a bit of mud. The grip remained surprisingly secure, thanks to the slightly tacky texture of the OverMold material.
The Hogue forend required absolutely no getting used to. It felt like a natural extension of the shotgun. The improved grip meant less conscious effort was needed to maintain control, allowing me to focus on target acquisition.
There were no significant issues with the initial use. The forend performed exactly as advertised. The only surprise was how much of a difference such a simple upgrade could make.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue OverMold forend has proven to be a reliable and durable upgrade. I’ve taken it through a full dove season, several trips to the range, and even a muddy pheasant hunt. It has consistently performed well.
Despite being subjected to typical field abuse, the OverMold material shows minimal signs of wear. There are no visible scratches or gouges, and the grip remains as secure as it was on day one. The Hogue logo is still crisp.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove dirt and grime. I have yet to use any specialized cleaning products on it. The durable material cleans quickly.
Compared to the factory synthetic forend that came with my 870, the Hogue is a clear winner. The enhanced grip and improved comfort have significantly boosted my confidence and performance. The factory forend felt slick and cheap. This Hogue forend delivers where it counts.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Remington 870 20 GA. OverMold Shotgun Forend – 1 out of 2 models
Specifications
- Caliber: 20 Gauge. This forend is specifically designed for 20-gauge Remington 870 shotguns, ensuring a proper fit and function.
- Material: Hogue’s durable OverMolded rubber. This material offers excellent grip, even in wet or cold conditions, and provides shock absorption for enhanced comfort.
- Compatibility: Remington 870 20 GA. Only. It is crucial to ensure compatibility before purchasing, as this forend will not fit other shotgun models or gauges.
- Installation: User-friendly drop-in replacement. Installation is typically straightforward, requiring no gunsmithing skills, making it an accessible upgrade for most users.
These specifications are crucial because they define the intended use and limitations of the product. The 20-gauge specificity ensures proper fit and cycling, while the OverMolded rubber dictates the level of grip and comfort the user can expect. Proper fit results in optimal shotgun operation.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Remington 870 20 GA. OverMold Shotgun Forend excels in its primary function: improving grip and control. The OverMold material provides a secure and comfortable hold, even with gloved hands or in adverse weather conditions. This translates to faster cycling and better accuracy.
Its strength lies in its simplicity. It’s a drop-in replacement that delivers a noticeable performance boost without requiring any modifications. A minor weakness could be the lack of aggressive texturing for those who prefer a more tactile grip.
The Hogue OverMold forend meets my expectations and then exceeds them. Its functionality makes it a worthwhile investment for any 20-gauge 870 owner seeking to enhance their shotgun’s handling. It adds value to my firearm.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue forend boasts a sleek and functional design. Its streamlined profile doesn’t add unnecessary bulk to the shotgun, maintaining a balanced feel. The OverMold material is comfortable in hand, even after extended periods of use.
The ergonomics are excellent. The forend’s shape and texture promote a natural and secure grip, minimizing fatigue and maximizing control. There’s virtually no learning curve. Anyone familiar with the Remington 870 will find it instantly intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue OverMold forend is built to last. The durable rubber material is resistant to scratches, gouges, and the elements. It’s designed to withstand the rigors of regular use in the field or at the range.
Maintenance is a breeze. A simple wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean and functioning properly. The forend requires no specialized cleaning products or tools.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Remington 870 20 GA. OverMold Shotgun Forend is primarily a standalone upgrade. It does not come with any additional accessories. The focus is on enhancing the grip and feel of the existing shotgun.
While the Hogue forend itself is not customizable, it is compatible with various aftermarket accessories for the Remington 870. This includes sling mounts, shell carriers, and other enhancements. The Hogue forend enhances the operation of these accessories.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Remington 870 20 GA. OverMold Shotgun Forend – 1 out of 2 models
Pros
- Enhanced Grip: The OverMold material provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet or cold conditions.
- Improved Control: The enhanced grip translates to faster cycling, better accuracy, and reduced recoil.
- Easy Installation: The drop-in design makes installation quick and easy, requiring no gunsmithing skills.
- Durable Construction: The OverMold material is resistant to scratches, gouges, and the elements, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Affordable Upgrade: The Hogue forend offers a significant performance boost at a reasonable price.
Cons
- Limited Customization: The forend itself is not customizable, offering limited options for personalization.
- Basic Design: Some users may prefer a more aggressive textured grip or a more elaborate design.
Who Should Buy Hogue Remington 870 20 GA. OverMold Shotgun Forend – 1 out of 2 models?
This Hogue Remington 870 20 GA. OverMold Shotgun Forend is perfect for hunters who need a reliable grip in various weather conditions. It also serves home defense enthusiasts who want enhanced control for quick follow-up shots, as well as recreational shooters looking for a comfortable and affordable upgrade.
Those seeking a highly customizable forend with integrated rails or a more aggressive texture should skip this product. Also, individuals who are perfectly satisfied with the factory forend may not find this upgrade necessary.
A must-have accessory is a good quality gun cleaning kit to maintain the entire shotgun, including the Hogue forend. Additionally, a sling can be helpful for carrying the shotgun comfortably in the field.
Conclusion on Hogue Remington 870 20 GA. OverMold Shotgun Forend – 1 out of 2 models
The Hogue Remington 870 20 GA. OverMold Shotgun Forend – 1 out of 2 models is a simple, yet effective upgrade that delivers a noticeable improvement in grip and control. The OverMold material provides a comfortable and secure hold, enhancing cycling and accuracy. Its durability and ease of installation make it a worthwhile investment for any 20-gauge 870 owner.
At $34.99, the price is more than justified. The performance boost and enhanced comfort it offers far outweigh the cost. It’s an affordable upgrade that can significantly improve the shooting experience.
I would absolutely recommend the Hogue OverMold forend to anyone looking to enhance the handling of their Remington 870 20-gauge shotgun. Upgrade your 870 today! You will not be disappointed.