Let’s Dive into Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300 is a beautifully crafted grip designed to elevate both the aesthetics and ergonomics of your Ruger revolver. Hogue, a name synonymous with quality handgun grips, has a reputation for blending form and function, and this grip promises to be no exception. This review dives deep into my experiences with this grip, highlighting its strengths, acknowledging its weaknesses, and ultimately helping you decide if it’s the right upgrade for your firearm.
I’ve always appreciated the inherent ruggedness of the GP100 and Super Redhawk, but the factory grips often felt a little lacking in terms of both aesthetics and hand feel. I was looking for a grip that offered a more secure and comfortable hold, while also adding a touch of classic elegance to my revolvers. The promises of Hogue’s Pau Ferro wood – its density, stability, and resistance to wear – piqued my interest and ultimately led me to try this grip.
Upon unboxing the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300, I was immediately impressed by the richness of the Pau Ferro wood. The dark, almost black finish exuded quality, and the grips felt substantial and well-made in my hand. The build quality appeared excellent, with smooth contours and a seamless fit and finish that spoke to Hogue’s precision machining capabilities.
Compared to the Pachmayr Diamond Pro grips, which offer excellent recoil absorption but lack visual appeal, and the Altamont grips, which are beautifully finished but sometimes feel a bit too slim, the Hogue seemed to strike a perfect balance. I chose the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300 hoping for a superior grip and an enhanced appearance for my Ruger revolvers. My initial impression was one of excitement; I couldn’t wait to install it and see how it performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300 at my local shooting range, where I primarily shoot .38 Special and .357 Magnum rounds through my GP100. The range provided a controlled environment to assess the grip’s comfort and control during extended shooting sessions. The grip felt secure and comfortable in my hand, offering a noticeable improvement over the factory rubber grips.
In dry conditions, the Pau Ferro wood offered excellent purchase, allowing for a firm and confident grip. The palm swells filled my hand nicely, promoting a natural and consistent grip angle. I didn’t experience any slippage or discomfort, even after firing several hundred rounds.
Installation was straightforward, but initially, I noticed a slight gap between the grip and the frame on one side of my GP100, as some other users have also reported. This didn’t affect functionality, but it was a slight disappointment from a purely aesthetic standpoint.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300 has held up remarkably well. The Pau Ferro wood shows no signs of cracking, warping, or discoloration, even after being exposed to varying temperatures and humidity levels. The grip has proven to be incredibly durable and resistant to wear and tear.
Maintaining the grip is simple; a quick wipe-down with a soft cloth after each shooting session is all that’s required to keep it looking its best. I’ve also occasionally used a high-quality furniture polish to enhance the wood’s natural luster. Compared to the rubber grips I’ve used in the past, the Hogue is far easier to clean and maintain.
Compared to my previous experience with the factory rubber grips, the Hogue offers a substantial improvement in both comfort and control. The Pau Ferro wood provides a more secure and comfortable grip, reducing felt recoil and enhancing accuracy. This grip definitely outperforms the factory grips in terms of both aesthetics and functionality.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300
Specifications
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and overall user experience.
- Manufacturer: Hogue
- Color: Brown (natural Pau Ferro variation)
- Finish: Pau Ferro
- Fabric/Material: Hardwood (Pau Ferro)
- Gun Make: Ruger
- Gun Model: Ruger GP100 Revolver, Ruger Super Redhawk
The use of Pau Ferro hardwood is a critical specification, offering exceptional durability, stability, and resistance to cracking, warping, and insect penetration. This ensures that the grip will withstand the rigors of regular use and maintain its aesthetic appeal for years to come. The compatibility with both the GP100 and Super Redhawk makes it a versatile upgrade for Ruger revolver owners.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300 performs admirably in its primary function: providing a secure and comfortable grip. The palm swells and finger grooves promote a natural and consistent grip angle, enhancing control and accuracy. The grip effectively reduces felt recoil, allowing for more comfortable and controlled shooting sessions.
The primary strength of this grip lies in its exceptional ergonomics and comfortable feel. The secure grip promotes better accuracy and reduces fatigue during extended shooting. The slight fitment issue on my GP100 is a weakness, though not a universal problem, suggesting potential variation in manufacturing tolerances or slight differences in GP100 frame dimensions.
The grip largely meets expectations, offering a noticeable improvement over the factory rubber grips in terms of both comfort and aesthetics. However, the slight fitment issue prevents it from being a perfect replacement.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300 is meticulously crafted from high-quality Pau Ferro wood. The wood’s natural grain and dark finish give the grip a rich, elegant appearance that enhances the overall aesthetics of the firearm. The grip feels substantial and well-balanced in the hand, inspiring confidence and control.
The ergonomic design promotes a comfortable and secure grip, even during extended shooting sessions. There’s no significant learning curve; installation is simple and straightforward, and the grip feels natural and intuitive from the first use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300 is constructed from highly durable Pau Ferro hardwood. With proper care, it should last for many years.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a soft cloth after each use. Minor scratches or blemishes can be easily repaired with a high-quality furniture polish.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300 does not come with any additional accessories. Hogue offers a wide range of grips and other accessories for firearms, and users can customize their revolvers with aftermarket sights, triggers, and other enhancements to complement the Hogue grip. While Hogue grips are designed for specific frame sizes, the frame of the gun may need to be shimmed for the best fit.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300
Pros
- Beautiful Aesthetics: The Pau Ferro wood and dark finish significantly enhance the appearance of the revolver.
- Enhanced Ergonomics: The palm swells and finger grooves promote a comfortable and secure grip.
- Improved Control: The secure grip reduces felt recoil and enhances accuracy.
- Durable Construction: The Pau Ferro wood is resistant to cracking, warping, and wear.
- Easy Maintenance: Simple to clean and maintain with minimal effort.
Cons
- Potential Fitment Issues: Some users may experience slight gaps between the grip and the frame.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some other grip options.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300?
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300 is perfect for Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk owners who are looking to upgrade the aesthetics and ergonomics of their revolvers. This is a great product for competitive shooters and recreational shooters who value both form and function. It is also well-suited for handgun enthusiasts who appreciate the beauty and durability of natural wood.
This grip may not be ideal for those who prioritize purely functional rubber grips for maximum recoil absorption, or for those on a very tight budget. If extreme recoil management is paramount or cost is the primary concern, there may be better alternatives.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality furniture polish to maintain the wood’s luster. Experimenting with shims might also be necessary to ensure a perfect fit.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300 is a worthwhile upgrade for any Ruger revolver owner seeking to enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of their firearm. While the potential for slight fitment issues exists, the grip’s exceptional ergonomics, durable construction, and beautiful appearance make it a compelling choice. The price is justified by the quality of materials and craftsmanship.
I would recommend this grip to anyone looking for a stylish and functional upgrade for their Ruger GP100 or Super Redhawk. If you’re ready to elevate your revolver’s aesthetics and improve your shooting experience, give the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro 80300 a try – you won’t be disappointed!