Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Small size – Brown 00711 Review

Let’s Dive into Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Small size – Brown 00711

The Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Small size – Brown 00711 is a recoil mitigation device designed for shooters using smaller caliber rifles and shotguns. Manufactured by Hogue, this pad promises a comfortable shooting experience without sacrificing weapon control. It boasts easy installation, a custom-grindable design, and durable construction.

After years of enduring shoulder-bruising range sessions with lightweight shotguns, I sought a solution to reduce felt recoil without significantly altering the rifle’s balance. I wanted something easily installed and durable enough to withstand regular use. Many slip-on pads felt too bulky, impacting shouldering speed and cheek weld, but the Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Small size – Brown 00711 seemed to offer a slimmer, more customizable profile.

The pad arrived in simple packaging, showcasing the rich brown color and Hogue branding. The material felt surprisingly dense and grippy to the touch. Initial handling revealed a well-molded, clean design, with no obvious flaws or imperfections.

I considered other recoil pads like Limbsaver and Pachmayr offerings, but the Hogue stood out due to its seemingly more rigid base and the promise of custom fitting without specialized tools. Many competitor products required a professional gunsmith for proper installation. My initial excitement stemmed from the potential to significantly improve my shooting comfort while maintaining the responsiveness of my favorite upland bird hunting shotgun.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Small size – Brown 00711 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial test took place at an outdoor shooting range on a blustery fall day. I fitted the Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Small size – Brown 00711 to a 20-gauge over-under shotgun known for its lively recoil. After a brief fitting process (more on that later), I prepared to cycle through several boxes of birdshot and target loads.

The difference was immediately noticeable. The pad effectively absorbed the sharp kick of the shotgun. Even with higher-velocity target loads, the felt recoil was noticeably reduced, allowing for faster follow-up shots.

I encountered no issues during the first range session, although the initial fitting required some patience, as the pad needed slight grinding for a perfect match to the stock profile. The grippy polymer provided excellent purchase against my shoulder, even while wearing a light shooting jacket.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including numerous trips to the range and a few upland bird hunts, the Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Small size – Brown 00711 has proven remarkably durable. There are no visible signs of cracking, tearing, or deformation, despite exposure to various weather conditions and routine handling. The brown color has also remained consistent, with no noticeable fading or discoloration.

Maintenance has been minimal, requiring only an occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. The pad still retains its grippy texture and shock-absorbing properties. It has significantly outperformed previous slip-on pads I’ve used, which often became loose or brittle over time. The Hogue pad feels like a permanent fixture on the shotgun, providing consistent performance and comfort.

Breaking Down the Features of Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Small size – Brown 00711

Specifications

The Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Small size – Brown 00711 features a polymer construction designed for durability and recoil absorption. It is specifically sized for smaller rifles and shotguns. The pad is brown in color and is designed to be easily ground to fit the specific stock dimensions.

The polymer construction offers excellent resistance to cracking, warping, and checking, ensuring long-lasting performance in various conditions. The small size is ideal for firearms with more slender stocks, providing a less bulky profile compared to larger recoil pads. The custom-grindable design allows for a seamless integration with the stock, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.

Performance & Functionality

The Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Small size – Brown 00711 excels at its primary function: reducing felt recoil. The internal cushion construction effectively absorbs and dissipates recoil energy, minimizing shoulder fatigue and allowing for more comfortable shooting sessions. While not eliminating recoil entirely, the pad significantly reduces the sharp “kick” experienced with unpadded firearms.

Its strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness, providing a tangible improvement in shooting comfort. The slight weakness is that it does require some fitting and grinding to perfectly match the specific stock dimensions. However, this customization leads to a vastly improved experience. It far exceeds my expectations for a recoil pad in this price range.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Small size – Brown 00711 features a sleek, low-profile design that complements the aesthetics of most rifles and shotguns. The brown color blends well with traditional wood stocks. The pad’s grippy surface provides excellent shoulder purchase, preventing slippage during firing.

The build quality is excellent, with no visible seams or imperfections. The weight is negligible, adding minimal bulk to the firearm. The pad is generally user-friendly, though the initial fitting process requires some patience and attention to detail.

Durability & Maintenance

The polymer construction of the Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Small size – Brown 00711 ensures long-term durability and resistance to the elements. The pad is unlikely to crack, warp, or degrade over time, even with regular use and exposure to harsh conditions.

Maintenance is simple, requiring only an occasional wipe-down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and debris. The pad does not require any special cleaning agents or treatments.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Small size – Brown 00711 does not come with any additional accessories. However, its custom-grindable design allows for seamless integration with a wide range of rifles and shotguns. It is compatible with various stock finishes and materials.

While the pad itself does not offer direct compatibility with other accessories, its improved recoil management can indirectly enhance the effectiveness of other shooting aids, such as cheek risers or adjustable combs.

Pros and Cons of Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Small size – Brown 00711