Let’s Dive into Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove 80810
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove 80810 isn’t just a grip; it’s an experience. Crafted by Hogue, a name synonymous with quality in the firearm accessories world, this grip promises to enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your Ruger revolver. As someone who’s spent over a decade handling everything from AR platforms to precision bolt-actions, I’ve learned that the grip is where man meets machine, and the right grip can transform a good firearm into a great one.
My Ruger GP100 has always been a reliable workhorse, but its factory grip felt…sterile. I needed something that offered a better feel, a more secure hold, and, frankly, a touch of class. This led me to the Hogue Coco Bolo grip, hoping to find a blend of form and function that would elevate my shooting experience.
The grip arrived in a simple, no-nonsense package. The first thing that struck me was the richness of the Coco Bolo wood – the figuring was beautiful, with deep reds and browns swirling across the surface. The grip felt solid and substantial in my hand, a clear step up from the factory rubber.
Compared to a standard rubber grip or a synthetic option, the Hogue Coco Bolo offers a tactile experience that’s hard to match. I considered a Pachmayr rubber grip for its recoil absorption, and a set of VZ Grips for their aggressive texture, but the Hogue promised a balance of comfort and control that intrigued me. The Coco Bolo’s natural grain provides a unique texture that’s both grippy and comfortable, and its lack of finger grooves allows for a more natural and adaptable grip.
My initial impression was one of quiet excitement. It promised both improved handling and a visually stunning upgrade to my GP100. Now, it was time to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove 80810 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove 80810 at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, perfect conditions for a relaxed shooting session. Installation was straightforward; the grip slipped on easily and secured firmly with the included hardware.
The difference was immediately noticeable. The Hogue grip provided a more positive and comfortable hold, reducing felt recoil and improving my overall control. Even with heavier .357 Magnum loads, the recoil was manageable, and my groupings tightened up significantly.
I didn’t need any real time to adjust to the grip; it felt natural from the start. The absence of finger grooves allowed me to position my hand exactly where it felt most comfortable, accommodating my larger hands perfectly. There were no sharp edges or pressure points, making for a surprisingly pleasant shooting experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove 80810 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking or splitting, and the finish has retained its luster. I estimate I’ve put around 500 rounds through my GP100 with this grip attached.
The grip shows minimal signs of wear, mainly some slight darkening of the wood where my hand makes contact. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a soft cloth keeps it looking pristine. I occasionally apply a light coat of beeswax furniture polish to keep the wood moisturized and prevent drying.
Previously, I used a rubber grip on my GP100, which, while functional, always felt a bit…sticky. The Hogue grip outperforms it in every way, offering superior comfort, control, and aesthetics. The wood feels more stable in my hand than the rubber option.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove 80810
Specifications
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove 80810 is specifically designed for Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk revolvers. Its Coco Bolo wood construction provides a durable and aesthetically pleasing alternative to standard grips. The lack of finger grooves allows for a customizable grip, accommodating a wide range of hand sizes and shooting styles.
The color is, naturally, Coco Bolo. This gives each grip a unique look, with variations in grain and color. The grip replaces the factory grip using the same mounting hardware. These specifications contribute directly to the grip’s enhanced handling and comfort, offering a significant improvement over standard grips.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove 80810 excels in both performance and functionality. It offers a secure and comfortable hold, enhancing recoil control and improving accuracy. The natural texture of the wood provides excellent grip, even in wet conditions.
The grip’s primary strength lies in its ability to improve the shooter’s connection to the firearm. Its only real weakness is that wood, by nature, can be scratched or dented. It more than meets my expectations, transforming my GP100 into a truly enjoyable and accurate firearm.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove 80810 features exceptional build quality and a well-thought-out design. The Coco Bolo wood is both beautiful and durable, providing a comfortable and secure grip. Its weight is negligible, adding to the revolver’s overall balance.
The grip is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no special tools or skills to install. There’s no learning curve; it feels natural from the moment you pick it up.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove 80810 is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and polishing.
Repair, in the event of damage, might require professional woodworking, but the wood itself is resilient. The simplicity of the design contributes to its overall reliability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove 80810 does not come with any additional accessories. While the grip itself is not customizable, it can be paired with other accessories for the GP100, such as different sights or speedloaders. Most accessories designed for the Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk should be compatible, allowing for further personalization.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove 80810
Pros
- Enhanced Grip & Control: The Coco Bolo wood provides a secure and comfortable grip, improving recoil control and accuracy.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The rich, natural grain of the wood adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your Ruger revolver.
- Customizable Feel: The absence of finger grooves allows for a more natural and adaptable grip, accommodating a wide range of hand sizes.
- Easy Installation: The grip is simple to install, requiring no special tools or skills.
- Durable Construction: The Coco Bolo wood is both beautiful and durable, ensuring years of reliable service.
Cons
- Wood is subject to scratching or denting.
- The price point is high compared to synthetic grips.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove 80810?
This grip is perfect for Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk owners who value both performance and aesthetics. It’s ideal for competitive shooters seeking a more secure and comfortable hold, as well as for recreational shooters who want to enhance the look and feel of their revolver. Anyone who appreciates the natural beauty and tactile qualities of wood will find this grip particularly appealing.
Those who should skip this product include shooters primarily concerned with extreme durability and are willing to sacrifice aesthetics and tactile feel. Also, those who prioritize low cost above all else may find cheaper synthetic grips more suitable.
A must-have accessory would be a quality gun cleaning kit with a soft cloth for polishing the wood. A beeswax furniture polish will also help maintain the wood’s moisture and prevent drying.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove 80810
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove 80810 is more than just a grip; it’s an investment in both performance and aesthetics. It transforms a standard Ruger revolver into a truly personalized and enjoyable firearm. The enhanced grip, improved recoil control, and stunning aesthetics make it a worthwhile upgrade for any serious shooter.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and the tangible improvement in handling. I would wholeheartedly recommend this grip to anyone looking to elevate their Ruger GP100 or Super Redhawk.
Don’t settle for a generic grip! Upgrade your Ruger and experience the difference a Hogue Coco Bolo grip can make. You won’t be disappointed.