Let’s Dive into Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324 is more than just an aesthetic upgrade; it’s a functional enhancement designed to improve the shooter’s control and comfort. This grip, crafted by Hogue, promises a secure and ergonomic hold, particularly beneficial for managing the recoil of powerful revolvers like the Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk. With its attractive Pau Ferro wood finish and “Big Butt” design, it aims to provide both improved aesthetics and enhanced grip area for better recoil absorption.
My aging hands have started to feel the recoil of my Ruger GP100 a bit more lately. I wanted a grip that offered a fuller, more comfortable hold to mitigate the felt recoil without sacrificing the classic look of the revolver. I had been using the factory rubber grip, and it was starting to show its age while not fully addressing my concerns about recoil management.
Upon unboxing the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324, I was immediately struck by the quality of the Pau Ferro wood. The wood grain was beautiful, and the finish was smooth and even, promising a comfortable feel in the hand. The “Big Butt” design was noticeably wider than the factory grip, giving me the impression that it would indeed provide a more substantial gripping surface.
I considered the Pachmayr Gripper Professional grips, known for their superior recoil absorption, and the Altamont Company grips, renowned for their exquisite aesthetics. Ultimately, I chose the Hogue grip because it seemed to strike a balance between functional recoil absorption and aesthetic appeal, offering the “Big Butt” design for improved grip without sacrificing too much of the classic revolver look.
My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a bit of skepticism. The grip looked fantastic, but I was eager to see if it would live up to its promise of enhanced recoil management and improved comfort during extended shooting sessions. Only time at the range would tell if it was more than just a pretty piece of wood.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324 at my local outdoor shooting range on a sunny afternoon. I fired a variety of .38 Special and .357 Magnum rounds through my Ruger GP100, focusing on how the grip affected recoil management and overall comfort. The weather was dry and pleasant, offering ideal shooting conditions.
The grip provided a noticeably more secure and comfortable hold compared to the factory rubber grip. The larger gripping surface distributed the recoil more evenly across my hand, reducing the sharp sting I had previously experienced, especially with the .357 Magnum loads. It was much easier to maintain a solid grip throughout each shooting string.
The installation was straightforward, and the grip felt perfectly molded to my hand from the first shot. I didn’t experience any slippage or discomfort, even after firing several cylinders full of ammunition. The Hogue grip immediately improved my confidence and control.
The only minor issue I encountered was a slight adjustment in my grip angle due to the larger size of the “Big Butt”. This took a few magazines to get used to, but once I adjusted my technique, it was smooth sailing. Overall, the first use was a resounding success.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324 has held up exceptionally well. I have used it in various conditions, from dry and sunny days to mildly damp and cool evenings, and the grip has remained secure and comfortable in all situations. There has been no noticeable degradation in performance.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear on the Pau Ferro wood. The finish has retained its luster, and the wood itself has not chipped or cracked, even after repeated exposure to the elements and the vibrations of recoil. The durability of the grip has been impressive.
Cleaning and maintaining the grip is relatively simple. A quick wipe-down with a slightly damp cloth after each range session is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. I occasionally apply a thin coat of wood oil to preserve the wood’s natural beauty.
Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket grips, the Hogue grip has been a significant upgrade. It provides superior recoil absorption, a more secure grip, and a more attractive aesthetic than the factory rubber grip I was previously using. It has noticeably improved my shooting experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324
Specifications
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324 is specifically designed for Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk revolvers. It features a construction of Pau Ferro hardwood, offering a beautiful and durable gripping surface. The grip’s “Big Butt” design provides an extended gripping area for enhanced recoil absorption and control.
The Pau Ferro hardwood provides a naturally strong and aesthetically pleasing material. The “Big Butt” design increases the contact area with the shooter’s hand, helping to distribute recoil force. This design also promotes a more secure and ergonomic grip, leading to improved control and accuracy.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324 excels in its primary function: providing a secure and comfortable grip for large-frame revolvers. The larger gripping surface significantly reduces felt recoil, making extended shooting sessions much more enjoyable. The grip’s ergonomic design promotes a natural and consistent hand placement.
The main strength of the grip is its enhanced recoil absorption and secure grip. The beautiful Pau Ferro wood adds a touch of elegance to the revolver. One area for potential improvement might be offering different texture options to further enhance grip security in very wet conditions.
The Hogue grip has far exceeded my expectations. It is very comfortable in my hand and is significantly better than the factory grip.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324 is exceptional. The Pau Ferro wood is dense and durable, with a smooth and even finish. The “Big Butt” design is well-proportioned and doesn’t feel bulky or unwieldy. The grip adds minimal weight to the revolver while providing a substantial improvement in ergonomics.
The grip is very user-friendly and requires no special skills or tools to install. The ergonomic design promotes a natural and comfortable shooting position, even for those with larger hands. There is no significant learning curve associated with this grip.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324 is built to last. The Pau Ferro wood is highly resistant to wear and tear, and the finish is durable enough to withstand repeated handling and exposure to the elements. With proper care, this grip should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward. Regular cleaning with a slightly damp cloth and occasional application of wood oil will keep the grip looking and performing its best. No specialized tools or cleaning products are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324 does not come with any additional accessories beyond the grip itself. However, it is compatible with various aftermarket accessories for Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk revolvers. These include holsters and speed loaders.
There are no specific customization options available directly from Hogue for this particular grip. However, the user can always apply their own finishes or textures to the wood if desired. The compatibility with standard Ruger accessories means that shooters can easily tailor their revolvers to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324
Pros
- Enhanced Recoil Absorption: The “Big Butt” design significantly reduces felt recoil, making shooting more comfortable and manageable.
- Secure and Ergonomic Grip: The grip provides a secure and comfortable hold, promoting better control and accuracy.
- Beautiful Pau Ferro Wood: The wood is not only durable but also adds an element of elegance to the revolver.
- Easy Installation: The grip is simple to install and requires no special tools or gunsmithing skills.
- Improved Handling: The grip balances well in the hand, enhancing the overall shooting experience.
Cons
- Larger Size: The “Big Butt” design may not be ideal for shooters with smaller hands.
- Wood Finish: Wood can be slippery when wet.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324?
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324 is perfect for Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk owners who want to improve recoil management and handling without sacrificing aesthetics. It’s ideal for recreational shooters, handgun hunters, and those who use their revolvers for home defense. Anyone who finds the factory grip uncomfortable or inadequate will greatly benefit from this upgrade.
This product may not be suitable for shooters with smaller hands who prefer a slimmer grip profile. It is also unnecessary for those who are perfectly satisfied with the factory grip’s performance and feel.
A high-quality holster designed for revolvers with larger grips would be a must-have accessory to complement the Hogue grip.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324
Overall, the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324 is an excellent upgrade for Ruger revolver owners seeking improved recoil management, enhanced grip security, and a touch of elegance. It is more than just an aesthetic enhancement; it’s a functional upgrade that can significantly improve the shooting experience.
The price of $97.71 is justified by the quality of materials, the enhanced performance, and the overall improvement in handling and control. The grip provides a tangible benefit to the shooter.
I would highly recommend the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Big Butt 80324 to anyone looking to enhance their Ruger revolver’s performance and aesthetics. Upgrade your grip today and experience the difference a quality grip can make!