Let’s Dive into Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355
The Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355 is an aftermarket part designed to enhance the grip and aesthetics of Colt 1911 Government model handguns. Offered by Hogue, a reputable name in firearm accessories, this mainspring housing provides a durable and stylish alternative to factory polymer or metal housings. The checkered pattern promises improved grip, while the brushed gloss clear anodized finish adds a touch of class to a classic firearm.
My journey to this particular mainspring housing began with a quest to refine the feel and performance of my trusted 1911. The factory mainspring housing, while functional, lacked the tactile feedback and visual appeal I desired. I was searching for a component that would not only improve my grip but also withstand the rigors of regular range use and potentially, concealed carry.
Upon unboxing the Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355, I was immediately struck by its quality. The aluminum construction felt solid and substantial, a clear upgrade over the plastic housings I’ve encountered on some production 1911s. The brushed gloss clear anodized finish was flawless, reflecting light beautifully and hinting at the durability beneath.
I considered mainspring housings from Wilson Combat and Ed Brown before settling on the Hogue. While those manufacturers offer excellent products, the Hogue struck a perfect balance between price, features, and aesthetics. The checkered pattern seemed aggressively textured without being overly abrasive, promising a secure grip without compromising comfort.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355 exudes quality and attention to detail. I was excited to install it and see how it would perform at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355 took place at my local shooting range. I wanted to assess its impact on grip, recoil management, and overall handling under live-fire conditions. I put about 200 rounds through my 1911 that day.
The difference was immediately noticeable. The checkered texture provided a significant improvement in grip, even with sweaty hands after extended shooting sessions. The Hogue housing seemed to anchor the pistol more firmly in my hand.
Installation was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a punch. No fitting was required; it dropped right into my Colt 1911 Government model. No issues or malfunctions arose during the initial range session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and hundreds of rounds, the Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355 has proven to be a worthwhile upgrade. The brushed gloss clear anodize finish remains unblemished, resisting scratches and wear from handling and holster use. There are no visible signs of wear, and the checkering remains sharp and effective.
Cleaning is a breeze; a quick wipe-down with a CLP-soaked cloth is all it takes to maintain its appearance. The Hogue has far exceeded the performance of the original polymer mainspring housing. The enhanced grip and durable construction have made it a permanent addition to my 1911.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hogue. This company is well-known for producing high-quality grips and accessories for firearms.
- Material: Aluminum. The use of aluminum provides increased durability and resistance to wear compared to polymer options.
- Finish: Brushed Gloss Clear Anodize. This finish offers both aesthetic appeal and increased resistance to corrosion.
- Checkering: Provides enhanced grip and tactile feedback.
- Gun Make: Colt. Specifically designed for Colt 1911s.
- Gun Model: Colt 1911 Government. Fits full-size 1911 models.
These specifications are critical because they directly impact the firearm’s handling, durability, and overall reliability. The aluminum construction and checkered grip surface contribute to a more positive and secure hold, particularly under stressful conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355 performs flawlessly. It significantly improves grip and handling compared to the factory mainspring housing. The checkering provides excellent tactile feedback.
Its strength lies in its simplicity and effectiveness. There is no complicated mechanism or adjustment, just a solid, well-designed component that enhances the firearm’s ergonomics. It has met and exceeded my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The aluminum construction feels robust and durable, while the finish is both attractive and protective. The weight is negligible, not adding any noticeable bulk to the pistol.
The design is user-friendly. Installation is quick and straightforward, and the improved grip is immediately noticeable. No learning curve is involved.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its aluminum construction and protective anodized finish, the Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355 is expected to last a lifetime with proper care. Maintenance is minimal. A simple wipe-down after each use is all that is required to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355 is a standalone component, designed to enhance the grip and aesthetics of the 1911. It does not require any specific accessories for its function. It’s compatible with a wide range of aftermarket grips, allowing for further customization of the firearm’s ergonomics and appearance.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355
Pros
- Significantly improved grip compared to factory polymer housings. The checkering pattern offers excellent tactile feedback and a secure hold.
- Durable aluminum construction ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear. This provides long-term value.
- The brushed gloss clear anodized finish adds a touch of class to the 1911, enhancing its overall aesthetics. It’s visually appealing.
- Easy installation requires only basic tools and no gunsmithing experience. This makes it a user-friendly upgrade.
- Direct replacement part. This means it will fit your 1911 without modification, making it a drop-in upgrade.
Cons
- The aggressively checkered pattern might be too abrasive for some users.
- The brushed gloss clear anodized finish might not appeal to those preferring a more subdued look.
Who Should Buy Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355?
The Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355 is perfect for 1911 owners seeking to improve their grip and enhance the aesthetics of their firearm. It is also a good option for those who want to replace a worn or damaged factory mainspring housing with a more durable and stylish alternative. Competitive shooters and concealed carriers would benefit from the enhanced grip.
Those who prefer a smoother grip surface or a matte finish should skip this product. Those perfectly satisfied with the factory grip or on a very strict budget might not see enough value in this upgrade.
A quality set of Hogue grips would complement this mainspring housing and further enhance the 1911’s ergonomics. A drop of oil or CLP on the mainspring housing during installation is recommended for smooth operation.
Conclusion on Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355
The Hogue Govt. Handgun Grip Aluminum Mainspring Housing Checkered Flat Brushed Gloss Clear 01355 is an excellent upgrade for any Colt 1911 Government model. Its durable construction, improved grip, and stylish finish make it a worthwhile investment. The price is justified by the enhanced performance and quality of the product.
I would highly recommend this mainspring housing to anyone looking to improve the handling and aesthetics of their 1911. If you’re looking to elevate your 1911, this is a must-have upgrade. Go ahead and add this to your cart!