Let’s Talk About Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100
Recoil. It’s the bane of many a shooter’s existence, especially when it comes to shotguns. The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 promises to tame that beast, and after spending a decade in the tactical gear and outdoor industry, I was more than ready to see if it lived up to the hype. I was looking for a reliable, easy-to-install solution to reduce felt recoil on my trusty Remington 870, a shotgun I’ve used for everything from upland bird hunting to home defense drills.
I’d been experiencing increasing shoulder fatigue during longer range sessions. My old, rock-hard factory pad was doing me no favors. Several friends suggested looking at Hogue, specifically the EZG line. I chose this Hogue pad over LimbSaver and Pachmayr options primarily for the promise of easy fitting and the company’s reputation for quality rubber products.
The initial impression was good; the pad felt substantial, with a noticeable give to the rubber. The pre-sized nature also seemed promising for a straightforward installation, a welcome change from custom grinding jobs I’ve undertaken in the past. This offered a blend of practicality and potential comfort that immediately piqued my interest.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 at my local shooting range, firing a mix of target loads and heavier buckshot rounds. The difference was immediately noticeable; the pad absorbed a significant amount of recoil, making follow-up shots faster and more comfortable. The improved grip provided by the softer rubber also enhanced control.
I also used the pad during a rainy training session. The tacky texture of the Hogue material provided a much better grip compared to the slick factory pad, enhancing handling significantly. I did notice some slight compression of the pad under heavy recoil, but nothing that impacted performance negatively.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of cracking or significant wear, even after repeated exposure to the elements. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes any dirt or grime.
Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket recoil pads, the Hogue pad is a clear winner in terms of comfort, durability, and ease of installation. It has significantly reduced shoulder fatigue and improved my overall shooting experience. This has become a must-have upgrade for any Remington 870, 11-87, or 1100 owner.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100
Specifications
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 is designed specifically for the Remington 870, 11-87, and 1100 shotguns. It features an exclusive recoil-reducing cushioned elastomer bonded to a super-rigid polymer alloy base plate. This combination offers both shock absorption and structural integrity.
The pad’s internal cushion construction is computer-designed, maximizing recoil reduction. The base plate is made from a high-strength polymer alloy, preventing cracking and checking often seen with other recoil pads. The pre-sized design aims to provide a close fit to the specified shotgun models, minimizing the need for extensive grinding.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 excels at reducing felt recoil, allowing for more comfortable and controlled shooting. It noticeably diminishes the impact of heavy loads, enabling quicker follow-up shots. The pad provides a better grip, enhancing overall gun handling.
The primary strength of this pad lies in its recoil absorption and ease of installation. A minor weakness is potential compression under extreme recoil, though this hasn’t significantly affected performance in my testing. The pad significantly exceeds expectations, providing a substantial improvement over the factory pad.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 boasts excellent build quality. The elastomer is both durable and comfortable against the shoulder. The pre-sized design simplifies installation and offers a near-custom fit.
It’s incredibly user-friendly; installation is straightforward, and there’s virtually no learning curve. The enhanced grip provided by the material improves overall handling and control, an important factor in high-stress situations.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 is built to last. The durable elastomer and robust base plate can withstand years of use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
There are no specific repair procedures needed; the pad is designed for longevity and requires only basic care. This focus on long-term durability is a key selling point for serious shooters.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 is primarily a standalone upgrade; no additional accessories are included. It’s compatible with most stock shims designed for the Remington 870, 11-87, and 1100, allowing for adjustments to length of pull. This compatibility ensures the pad can be tailored to individual shooter preferences.
Pros and Cons of Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100
Pros
- Significantly reduces felt recoil, improving shooting comfort and control.
- Pre-sized design allows for easy “do-it-yourself” installation, saving time and money on gunsmithing.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance even under heavy use.
- Enhanced grip improves gun handling, especially in wet or adverse conditions.
- Reasonable price makes it an affordable upgrade for any Remington shotgun owner.
Cons
- May require some minor fitting (sanding) for a perfect flush fit, despite being pre-sized.
- Compression under heavy recoil is possible, although it doesn’t significantly impact performance.
Who Should Buy Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100?
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 is perfect for hunters, sporting clays enthusiasts, and home defense practitioners who use Remington 870, 11-87, or 1100 shotguns. It will benefit anyone experiencing discomfort from recoil or wanting to improve their shooting control and accuracy. This is a must-have upgrade for older shotguns with rock-hard factory pads.
This product may not be necessary for shooters who are particularly recoil-tolerant or primarily use light target loads. Individuals seeking a fully custom-fitted recoil pad may prefer a grind-to-fit option instead. Necessary accessories might include sandpaper for fine-tuning the fit and stock shims for length-of-pull adjustments.
Conclusion on Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 is an outstanding upgrade that delivers on its promise of reduced recoil and improved shooting comfort. At a price of $37.99, the value proposition is undeniable; it’s a small investment that yields a significant return in terms of shooting experience. I recommend it without hesitation.
If you own a Remington 870, 11-87, or 1100 and are looking to tame its recoil, the Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad is the answer. Upgrade your shotgun today and experience the difference!