Let’s Dive into Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741 is designed to mitigate the harsh recoil of 12-gauge shotguns, specifically the popular Remington 870 and 11-87 models. Hogue is a well-respected name in the firearms industry, known for producing high-quality grips and accessories. This pre-sized recoil pad aims to provide shooters with increased comfort and control, reducing fatigue and improving accuracy.
I’ve always been recoil-sensitive, particularly when shooting heavier loads for waterfowl hunting. I wanted a solution that wouldn’t significantly alter the length of pull of my shotgun, but would still effectively reduce the felt recoil. After extensive research, the Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741 seemed like the ideal balance of comfort and convenience.
Upon unboxing, the recoil pad felt noticeably softer and more pliable than the factory hard plastic butt plate. The brown synthetic material has a slightly tacky texture, promising a more secure grip against the shoulder. The build quality appeared solid, with clean edges and precise molding.
Compared to a Limbsaver slip-on recoil pad and a Pachmayr Decelerator screw-on pad, the Hogue offered a simpler installation process. The other options either added too much length to the stock or required professional gunsmithing for proper fitting. My first impression was definitely positive; I was eager to get it installed and head to the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741 at my local sporting clays range on a sunny afternoon. The ambient temperature was around 75 degrees Fahrenheit, and the conditions were dry. I shot approximately 100 rounds of standard 12-gauge target loads, as well as 25 rounds of heavier hunting loads.
The difference in felt recoil was immediately noticeable. The Hogue pad effectively absorbed a significant portion of the recoil impulse, making the shooting experience much more comfortable. I could focus more on target acquisition and less on bracing for the next shot.
Installation was a breeze, taking only a few minutes with a screwdriver. No modifications to the stock were necessary. There were no issues or surprises; the pad performed exactly as advertised.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple hunting trips in varying weather conditions, the Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741 has held up exceptionally well. There are no visible signs of wear and tear, even after being exposed to rain, mud, and accidental bumps in the field. Cleaning is simple; a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove any dirt or grime.
Compared to my previous shooting experiences with the factory butt plate, the Hogue pad has dramatically improved my shooting comfort and accuracy. I no longer experience shoulder fatigue after a long day of shooting. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741
Specifications
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741 is specifically designed for the Remington 870 and 11-87 shotguns with synthetic stocks. It features a brown synthetic construction, offering a balance of durability and recoil absorption. The pre-sized design ensures a perfect fit, eliminating the need for custom fitting or grinding.
The most crucial specification is the material itself: the synthetic compound is engineered to compress upon impact, dissipating recoil energy before it reaches the shooter’s shoulder. This translates directly into improved shooting comfort and reduced fatigue.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741 excels at its primary function: reducing felt recoil. It transforms a potentially punishing shooting experience into a manageable and even enjoyable one.
The pad’s soft and pliable material absorbs a significant portion of the recoil impulse, making it easier to maintain control of the shotgun. The tacky texture provides a secure grip against the shoulder, preventing slippage and improving accuracy. While it doesn’t eliminate recoil entirely (no pad can), it makes a world of difference.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741 boasts a simple and functional design. The brown color blends seamlessly with most synthetic stocks, maintaining a clean and professional appearance. The pad adds minimal weight to the shotgun, ensuring that the balance remains unaffected.
The ergonomic design of the pad conforms comfortably to the shooter’s shoulder, providing a secure and stable platform. The pre-sized design ensures a perfect fit, eliminating any gaps or uneven surfaces. Installation is straightforward, requiring only a screwdriver and a few minutes of time.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741 is constructed from durable synthetic material, designed to withstand years of use in harsh conditions. The material is resistant to cracking, tearing, and fading, ensuring that the pad maintains its performance and appearance over time. Maintenance is minimal; a damp cloth is all that’s needed to remove any dirt or grime.
Given the high-quality construction and durable materials, I expect this recoil pad to last for many years of regular use. The simple design and lack of moving parts further contribute to its longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741 is primarily a standalone accessory. While it doesn’t offer extensive customization options, its pre-sized design ensures a perfect fit with Remington 870 and 11-87 shotguns equipped with synthetic stocks. It does NOT need additional accessories for installation.
The Hogue pad is compatible with aftermarket sling studs and other stock accessories. This allows shooters to further customize their shotguns to meet their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741
Pros
- Significantly reduces felt recoil, improving shooting comfort and accuracy.
- Pre-sized design ensures a perfect fit on Remington 870 and 11-87 shotguns with synthetic stocks.
- Easy to install, requiring only a screwdriver and a few minutes of time.
- Durable synthetic construction withstands years of use in harsh conditions.
- Affordable price offers excellent value for the performance improvement.
Cons
- Limited to Remington 870 and 11-87 shotguns with synthetic stocks; not universally compatible.
- Brown color may not match all stock finishes.
Who Should Buy Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741?
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741 is perfect for:
- Hunters who use Remington 870 or 11-87 shotguns with synthetic stocks and want to reduce felt recoil when shooting heavier loads.
- Sporting clays and trap shooters who want to improve their shooting comfort and endurance during long sessions.
- Anyone who is recoil-sensitive and wants to make shooting their 12-gauge shotgun more enjoyable.
Who should skip this product?
- Shooters who own shotguns other than the Remington 870 or 11-87.
- Those who prefer slip-on recoil pads or are willing to have a pad professionally fitted.
A must-have modification is a comfortable sling to further enhance the shooting experience and ease of carry.
Conclusion on Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741 is an excellent upgrade for Remington 870 and 11-87 shotguns with synthetic stocks. It effectively reduces felt recoil, improving shooting comfort and accuracy. The pre-sized design and easy installation make it a convenient and hassle-free solution.
At $37.99, the price is more than justified by the significant improvement in shooting comfort and performance. I would personally recommend the Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87 synthetic – Brown 70741 to anyone looking to tame the recoil of their Remington shotgun. Enhance your shooting experience today!