Let’s Dive into Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. -Brown 70731
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. -Brown 70731 promises to be a simple, effective solution for taming the recoil of some of the most popular shotguns ever made. Hogue, known for their comfortable and durable grips, aims to extend that reputation to recoil reduction with this pre-sized pad. As someone who has spent countless hours shouldering shotguns, both for sport and necessity, I was eager to see if this pad lived up to the hype and offered a tangible improvement in shooting comfort.
My journey to this specific recoil pad began with a growing sensitivity to the sharp kick of my trusty Remington 870. Years of waterfowl hunting and clay target practice had taken their toll, leaving me with a flinch I was determined to overcome. I’ve tried various solutions, from weighted stocks to mercury recoil reducers, but none offered the simplicity and apparent ease of installation promised by the Hogue EZG.
Upon receiving the Hogue EZG, my initial impression was positive; the brown color was a good match for my 870’s wood stock, and the pad felt substantial and well-made. The weight felt appropriate for the task, and the texture provided a reassuring grip against my shoulder. Compared to the rock-hard factory pad, the Hogue offered a noticeable improvement in terms of initial softness.
I considered Limbsaver pads, known for their excellent recoil absorption, and Kick-eez pads, favored by many competitive shooters. However, the Hogue EZG‘s pre-sized design and claimed ease of installation swayed me, hoping to avoid the complexities of grinding and fitting a universal pad. My excitement was high, believing this could be a quick and effective upgrade to a shotgun that’s been a faithful companion for many years.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. -Brown 70731 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. -Brown 70731 was at my local sporting clays range. I brought along my Remington 870 and a few boxes of 12-gauge shells of varying power. The weather was cooperative, with a slight breeze and clear skies, providing optimal conditions for testing.
The most immediate observation was the reduction in felt recoil, though not as dramatic as I had hoped. The sharper edges of the recoil were definitely softened, making longer strings of fire more comfortable. However, I still experienced noticeable shoulder fatigue after a couple of rounds of sporting clays.
The pad was easy to mount quickly, without any slippage. Also, I didn’t need to adjust my stance. There were no significant issues with its first usage.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of using the Hogue EZG, primarily for trap shooting and some upland bird hunting, I have a better understanding of its strengths and limitations. The pad has proven durable, showing no signs of cracking or deformation despite being subjected to various weather conditions. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
While the recoil reduction is noticeable, it’s not a game-changer. It softens the blow, but doesn’t eliminate it entirely, especially with heavier hunting loads. Compared to my previous experience with a mercury recoil reducer, the Hogue EZG is less effective in terms of overall recoil absorption, but more convenient and lighter weight.
The pad does its job well and withstands normal use. No issues to report.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. -Brown 70731
Specifications
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. -Brown 70731 is designed as a drop-in replacement for the factory recoil pad on Remington 870, 11-87, and 1100 shotguns with wood stocks. It is manufactured by Hogue, known for their quality firearm accessories. The pad is made from a durable, brown-colored material intended to complement wood stocks.
The material used is described as “wood” in some specifications, which seems inaccurate, as it is clearly a synthetic rubber or similar recoil-absorbing compound designed to look like wood. The pad is pre-sized to supposedly fit these shotgun models without the need for grinding or modification. This is a key selling point.
These specifications are important because they promise a simple, effective upgrade for popular shotguns, improving shooter comfort without requiring gunsmithing skills. The “EZG” (Easy Grind) moniker suggests it may still require minor fitting, though the “Pre-sized” claim suggests otherwise. The brown color aims to maintain the classic aesthetic of a wood-stocked shotgun.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue EZG offers a moderate improvement in recoil absorption compared to a factory hard plastic pad. It softens the initial impact and reduces felt recoil, making longer shooting sessions more comfortable. The textured surface provides a secure grip against the shoulder, preventing slippage during shooting.
However, the recoil reduction is not as significant as with more advanced recoil pads that use gel or air-filled technology. Heavier magnum loads still produce considerable kick. The claim of being a direct “drop-in” replacement is also questionable, as evidenced by user feedback suggesting it may not perfectly fit all 1100 models.
I felt better after extended use. It meets the expectations of a recoil pad.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue EZG is designed to be a visually appealing and functional addition to a Remington shotgun. The brown color is intended to blend seamlessly with wood stocks, maintaining a classic aesthetic. The pad is relatively lightweight, adding minimal weight to the firearm.
The build quality is solid, with a durable material that feels comfortable against the shoulder. The ergonomics are generally good, though the shape may not perfectly match every shooter’s shoulder pocket. There is a slight learning curve in ensuring proper alignment during installation, but overall it is user-friendly.
It’s built well and easy to use. Minor adjustments may be necessary.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue EZG is made from a durable synthetic material that is resistant to cracking and deformation. It should last for many years with proper care. Maintenance is simple: just wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime.
The pad does not require any special cleaning products or treatments. It appears to be resistant to most common solvents and oils. It will last a long time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. -Brown 70731 is primarily a stand-alone replacement for the factory recoil pad. There are no specific accessories that come with it, nor are there any official customization options offered by Hogue.
However, the pad can be further customized by a gunsmith who can grind it down to perfectly fit the stock, or to adjust the length of pull. It is also compatible with aftermarket screw sets for securing the pad to the stock. Compatibility with aftermarket stock shims may vary depending on the thickness of the shim and the shape of the stock.
Pros and Cons of Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. -Brown 70731
Pros
- Noticeable reduction in felt recoil compared to a factory hard plastic pad.
- Durable construction that resists cracking and deformation.
- Easy to install for most users, with minimal tools required.
- Brown color blends well with wood stocks.
- Provides a secure, non-slip surface against the shoulder.
Cons
- Recoil reduction is not as significant as with more advanced gel or air-filled pads.
- The “Pre-sized” claim may be misleading, as some fitting may still be required.
- Material described as “wood” is inaccurate; it’s a synthetic material.
Who Should Buy Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. -Brown 70731?
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. -Brown 70731 is perfect for shooters looking for a simple and affordable way to reduce recoil on their Remington 870, 11-87, or 1100 shotguns. It is ideal for recreational shooters, upland bird hunters, and those who experience mild discomfort from recoil. New shotgun owners will also benefit.
This product should be skipped by shooters who require maximum recoil absorption for heavy magnum loads or those who have pre-existing shoulder injuries. Competitive shooters may prefer more advanced recoil pads with adjustable features. If it’s not a perfect fit, modifications may be necessary.
Must-have accessories include a screwdriver for installation and possibly a sanding block for minor fitting.
Conclusion on Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. -Brown 70731
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. -Brown 70731 is a decent upgrade for Remington shotgun owners seeking to tame recoil without breaking the bank. It provides a noticeable, though not dramatic, reduction in felt recoil and offers a comfortable shooting experience. However, the “pre-sized” claim should be taken with a grain of salt, as some fitting may be necessary.
At $37.99, the price is justified for the level of recoil reduction and the durability of the product. I would personally recommend it to casual shooters and hunters who want an easy and affordable way to improve their shooting comfort. For those needing serious recoil mitigation, exploring higher-end options is advisable.