Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Ruger 77 MKII synthetic Stk. – Brown 77721 Review

Let’s Dive into Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Ruger 77 MKII synthetic Stk. – Brown 77721

The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Ruger 77 MKII synthetic Stk. – Brown 77721 promises to tame the recoil of your Ruger M77 Mark II rifle, particularly those equipped with a synthetic stock. This isn’t just a piece of rubber; Hogue claims it’s their “thickest and most aggressively molded pad to date,” designed for enhanced recoil absorption and a smoother shooting experience.

I’ve spent years behind various rifles, from .22LR plinkers to shoulder-bruising magnums. The Ruger M77 Mark II, a reliable workhorse, can become a bit of a handful after a long day at the range. This recoil pad promised to alleviate that, a welcome prospect considering the cumulative effect of recoil on accuracy and comfort.

Upon unboxing, the Hogue EZG recoil pad feels substantial, with a noticeably thick profile. The synthetic suede material offers a comfortable, almost luxurious, feel compared to the standard hard plastic butt plate that came with my synthetic stock. The color is a pleasing, muted brown, fitting well with the overall aesthetic of my rifle.

Compared to a Limbsaver slip-on recoil pad I’ve used previously, the Hogue EZG seems more tailored and integrated. Slip-on pads often feel like an afterthought, slightly wobbly and never quite perfectly aligned. The Hogue EZG, being pre-sized, suggests a more permanent and secure fit.

My initial excitement was tempered slightly by the description mentioning its intended use with Hogue’s H-style buffer tube (a feature not applicable to the Ruger 77 MKII). This created a slight worry that it might not be a perfect drop-in fit despite being specifically marketed for the Ruger M77 MKII with synthetic stocks. I hoped the promise of a “great look” and enhanced recoil absorption would outweigh any potential fitment issues.

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Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Ruger 77 MKII synthetic Stk. – Brown 77721 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Hogue EZG recoil pad at my local outdoor range, a spot I frequent for load development and general practice. The weather was typical for early spring: cool and a bit damp, providing a reasonable test for grip and comfort in less-than-ideal conditions.

The installation was surprisingly simple. After removing the original factory butt plate, the Hogue EZG slipped into place with minimal effort, aligning perfectly with the stock’s contours. Securing it with the original screws was straightforward, resulting in a seamless and professional-looking installation.

The difference in felt recoil was immediately noticeable. The sharp, jarring impact I was accustomed to with the factory butt plate was significantly muted. Even after firing a couple of boxes of .30-06 rounds, I experienced minimal shoulder fatigue, something I typically battled after just a few rounds.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, including a deer hunting trip in moderately rough terrain, the Hogue EZG recoil pad continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of cracking or separation from the stock, indicating a robust and well-bonded construction.

Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth removes dirt and grime effectively. The synthetic suede material has proven surprisingly resistant to staining and abrasion, maintaining its original appearance despite exposure to mud and moisture.

Previously, prolonged shooting sessions with my Ruger M77 MKII often led to flinching and a degradation in accuracy. With the Hogue EZG recoil pad, I can comfortably shoot more rounds, leading to improved proficiency and consistency. It’s a clear upgrade over the factory setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Ruger 77 MKII synthetic Stk. – Brown 77721

Specifications

The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Ruger 77 MKII synthetic Stk. – Brown 77721 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance. It’s designed specifically for the Ruger M77 Mark II with a synthetic stock. The pad is brown, made from a synthetic material, and manufactured by Hogue.

These specifications are vital because they ensure compatibility and optimized performance. Using a pad not designed for the Ruger M77 MKII could result in improper fitment, reducing its effectiveness and potentially damaging the stock. The synthetic construction ensures weather resistance and durability.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Hogue EZG recoil pad is to reduce felt recoil, and it excels in this regard. It effectively absorbs and dissipates the energy from each shot, minimizing the impact on the shooter’s shoulder. This allows for longer, more comfortable shooting sessions and improved accuracy.

One weakness could be the brown color, which might not appeal to everyone or match all rifle setups. The fact that it’s specifically designed for synthetic stocks might limit its appeal to those with wooden stocks. Overall, the Hogue EZG recoil pad meets and exceeds expectations in terms of recoil reduction and ease of installation.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hogue EZG recoil pad features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and aesthetics. The synthetic suede material provides a comfortable and secure contact point. The pre-sized design ensures a seamless and professional-looking fit.

The installation process is incredibly user-friendly, requiring only basic tools and minimal technical expertise. The pad adds minimal weight to the rifle, maintaining its balance and maneuverability.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hogue EZG recoil pad is constructed from high-quality synthetic materials designed for long-lasting durability. It has withstood exposure to various weather conditions and rough handling without showing any signs of significant wear or tear.

Maintaining the pad is simple; it can be easily cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Regular cleaning will help prevent the buildup of dirt and grime, ensuring optimal performance and extending its lifespan.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Ruger 77 MKII synthetic Stk. – Brown 77721 is primarily a standalone upgrade, and doesn’t come with a plethora of accessories. Its main goal is to replace the existing recoil pad on a Ruger M77 MKII with a synthetic stock.

While not directly customizable, the improved shooting experience provided by the Hogue EZG can enhance the usability of other rifle accessories, such as scopes and bipods. By reducing felt recoil, the pad helps to stabilize the rifle, allowing for more accurate and consistent shot placement.

Pros and Cons of Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Ruger 77 MKII synthetic Stk. – Brown 77721

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Who Should Buy Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Ruger 77 MKII synthetic Stk. – Brown 77721?

Perfect for hunters, target shooters, and anyone looking to improve the shooting comfort and accuracy of their Ruger M77 MKII rifle with a synthetic stock. Anyone who has experienced significant recoil from their rifle will find this a welcome upgrade.

Individuals with wooden stocks, or those seeking a recoil pad for a different rifle model, should skip this product. This is also not recommended for users who prefer the original factory feel.

Must-have accessories include a set of screwdrivers for installation and potentially some gun cleaning supplies to maintain the pad and rifle.

Conclusion on Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Ruger 77 MKII synthetic Stk. – Brown 77721

The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Ruger 77 MKII synthetic Stk. – Brown 77721 is an excellent upgrade for anyone seeking to tame the recoil of their Ruger M77 MKII rifle. It delivers on its promise of reducing felt recoil, enhancing shooting comfort, and improving accuracy.

At a price of $39.99, the value proposition is clear. The significant improvement in shooting experience justifies the cost, especially considering the long-lasting durability of the synthetic construction.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Hogue EZG recoil pad to any Ruger M77 MKII owner with a synthetic stock looking for a simple, effective, and affordable way to improve their shooting experience. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference!