First Thoughts on the Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black
The Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black grip isn’t just an accessory; it’s a transformation for the Ruger LCR. Manufactured by Hogue, this grip promises enhanced concealment and a redefined shooting experience, trading some control for a smaller profile. Its sleek design, combining smooth polymer sides with a rubberized front and back, hints at a balance between aesthetics and functionality.
I was hunting for a better concealed carry option for my LCR. The stock grip, while functional, added bulk that hindered comfortable IWB carry, especially during warmer months when clothing is lighter. I wanted something that minimized printing without sacrificing all grip functionality.
My initial impression upon unboxing was positive. The grip felt noticeably smaller and lighter than the original. The materials felt robust, suggesting durability despite the reduced size.
Compared to the stock LCR grip, the Hogue offers a significantly smaller footprint. Other aftermarket options like the Pachmayr Diamond Pro series offer better recoil absorption but increase size, while minimalist grips like the Clipdraw offer extreme concealment but compromise control. The Hogue seemed to strike a middle ground.
My initial excitement was tempered with a bit of apprehension. Would the smaller size negatively impact my ability to control the LCR, especially when shooting +P .38 Special rounds? Only range time would tell, but its sleek appearance and promising design definitely piqued my interest.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black involved a mix of standard .38 Special and +P rounds. I primarily focused on concealed carry draws and rapid-fire drills from 7-10 yards. The weather was typical for Texas in July – hot and humid.
Concealment was immediately and noticeably improved. The smaller grip profile made the LCR virtually disappear under a light t-shirt, eliminating the printing issues I had with the stock grip. Drawing from concealment was also smoother and faster, as there was less material to snag on clothing.
Ease of use was a mixed bag. While the smaller grip aided concealment, it definitely required a more conscious effort to maintain a firm hold, especially with +P rounds. The finger grooves were well-placed and helped index my hand, but the reduced gripping surface meant more felt recoil and muzzle flip.
The biggest surprise was the difference in recoil management between standard and +P ammunition. Standard .38 felt manageable, but +P rounds were noticeably more snappy, requiring a firmer grip and more focused technique to stay on target for follow-up shots.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black continues to perform as expected. I’ve carried it regularly in various conditions, from everyday carry to hiking trips in moderately rugged terrain. The grip has held up remarkably well.
Durability has proven to be excellent. There are no visible signs of wear or tear, despite regular exposure to sweat, friction from clothing, and occasional bumps and scrapes. The polymer and rubber materials seem highly resistant to degradation.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. I occasionally use a silicone-based protectant to keep the rubber supple and prevent cracking, but this is purely for cosmetic reasons.
Compared to my previous experiences with larger, more recoil-absorbing grips, the Hogue prioritizes concealment over pure shooting comfort. It’s a trade-off, and whether it’s worth it depends entirely on your priorities and the type of ammunition you typically shoot.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black
Specifications
- Type: Boot Grip. Designed for maximum concealment, minimizing printing.
- Model: Tamer. This indicates the grip’s focus on recoil management in a compact form factor.
- Finish: Textured. Provides some level of grip despite the smaller size.
- Material: Rubber and Polymer. The combination offers durability and a degree of shock absorption.
- Compatibility: Ruger LCR. Specifically designed and fitted for the Ruger LCR platform.
- Finger Grooves: Included. Intended to improve grip and control.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the LCR’s concealability, handling, and recoil management. The boot grip design prioritizes a smaller profile, influencing the shooter’s ability to maintain a secure and comfortable grip. Material selection affects both the grip’s longevity and its contribution to felt recoil.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black performs admirably within its design parameters. It excels at concealment, making the LCR a much more viable option for deep concealment or summer carry. However, this comes at the cost of reduced recoil absorption and overall shooting comfort, especially with higher-powered ammunition.
Its strengths lie in its minimal footprint and secure fit. The grip is easy to install and doesn’t shift or loosen during use. The texturing provides adequate grip for most shooting scenarios, though it may not be sufficient for extended range sessions with magnum loads.
The main weakness is recoil management with +P .38 Special or .357 Magnum rounds. The smaller gripping surface transmits more energy to the hand, leading to increased felt recoil and potential discomfort. I believe that shooters regularly using the Ruger LCR platform with magnum rounds should opt for a grip with greater mass.
The grip meets expectations for concealment, but falls slightly short in terms of recoil absorption. It is a compromise that is clearly defined.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black boasts a simple yet effective design. The combination of smooth polymer sides and a rubberized front and back creates a comfortable and secure gripping surface. Its light weight does not add noticeable weight to the firearm.
The grip is incredibly user-friendly. Installation takes only a few minutes with basic tools. The finger grooves naturally guide the hand into a comfortable and consistent shooting position.
The design is very streamlined, which comes at a cost for felt recoil. The build quality is high and this grip is user friendly.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black is constructed from durable materials designed to withstand everyday wear and tear. The polymer sides resist scratches and abrasions, while the rubberized front and back offer excellent resistance to solvents and oils. Regular cleaning and maintenance are minimal.
With proper care, the grip should last for many years. The materials are resistant to degradation from sunlight, moisture, and temperature fluctuations.
Maintenance is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Wipe downs are easy, and the materials are high quality.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black itself doesn’t directly support accessories. It’s a self-contained grip designed for a specific purpose. There are no provisions for mounting lights, lasers, or other attachments directly onto the grip.
The grip is compatible with any holster designed for the Ruger LCR. It might not fit holsters molded specifically for the stock LCR grip.
There are no direct customization options for this particular Hogue grip beyond selecting different colors or textures (if available). The Hogue is what it is.
Pros and Cons of Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black
Pros
- Excellent Concealment: Dramatically reduces printing, making it ideal for concealed carry.
- Improved Draw Speed: Smaller profile allows for a faster and smoother draw from concealment.
- Durable Construction: High-quality materials ensure long-lasting performance and resistance to wear and tear.
- Easy Installation: Simple drop-in replacement for the stock grip, requiring minimal tools or expertise.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: The finger grooves provide a secure and comfortable grip for most hand sizes.
Cons
- Reduced Recoil Absorption: Smaller size transmits more felt recoil, especially with +P ammunition.
- Compromised Control: Requires a firmer grip and more focused technique, especially with +P rounds.
Who Should Buy Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black?
The Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black is perfect for concealed carriers prioritizing deep concealment and a minimal profile. It will also benefit those who primarily use standard .38 Special ammunition. Those who need to carry comfortably IWB or AIWB will see a significant improvement.
This grip is not recommended for shooters who primarily use .357 Magnum ammunition in their LCR, or those sensitive to recoil. Anyone seeking maximum recoil absorption should explore other grip options.
A quality holster designed specifically for the Ruger LCR is a must-have accessory.
Conclusion on Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black
The Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black is a specialized grip designed for a specific purpose: enhanced concealment. It achieves this goal admirably, transforming the Ruger LCR into a truly deep-concealment option. However, this comes at the cost of reduced recoil absorption and compromised control, particularly with higher-powered ammunition.
At a price of $33.96, the Hogue grip offers good value for the money. For those prioritizing concealment above all else, the price is easily justified.
I would recommend the Hogue TAMER BANTAM BOOT LCR Black to anyone struggling with printing issues or seeking a more comfortable IWB carry experience with their Ruger LCR. Just be prepared to adjust your shooting technique and potentially limit your ammunition choices to standard .38 Special loads. Upgrade your LCR today!