The Hogue Rubber Monogrip Ruger Blackhawk/Single Six Made a Bold First Impression
The single-action revolver. A classic design, steeped in history and known for its simplicity and ruggedness. Yet, those qualities often come at the expense of comfort, especially when dealing with higher-powered loads. That’s where the Hogue Rubber Monogrip Ruger Blackhawk/Single Six steps in. It promises to tame the beast, offering a more secure and comfortable grip on these iconic firearms.
I was looking for a way to improve the handling of my Ruger Blackhawk. Shooting magnum loads was becoming less enjoyable due to the felt recoil and the factory grips just weren’t cutting it. I needed a grip that could absorb some of the shock and provide a more positive hold, especially with sweaty hands during hot summer range days.
The Hogue Rubber Monogrip arrived in a simple, no-frills package. The initial impression was of solid, quality rubber with a slight tackiness that inspired confidence. It felt substantial, definitely adding some bulk compared to the original grips, but in a way that suggested improved control.
I considered Pachmayr grips, which I’ve used on other revolvers, but ultimately chose the Hogue for its reputation for superior recoil absorption and the single-piece design. I was also debating between wood and rubber, but the practicality and weather resistance of rubber won out. I was excited to see if the Hogue grip could truly transform the shooting experience of my Blackhawk.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Rubber Monogrip Ruger Blackhawk/Single Six to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Hogue Rubber Monogrip was at my local outdoor range on a sunny, humid afternoon. I put about 100 rounds through my Ruger Blackhawk, mixing standard .38 Special loads with some stout .357 Magnum rounds. The improvement was immediately noticeable.
The rubber grip soaked up a significant amount of the recoil, making even the magnum loads much more manageable. The grip filled my hand comfortably, and the textured surface provided a secure hold even when my hands started to sweat. I didn’t need to constantly readjust my grip after each shot like I did with the factory grips. There were no initial fitment issues, as the grip installed snugly without any gaps or movement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue Rubber Monogrip has proven its worth. It still looks and feels as good as new. There are no signs of cracking, peeling, or excessive wear, even after being exposed to sun, rain, and the occasional cleaning solvent.
Cleaning is a breeze; I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each range session. The Hogue grip has noticeably improved my accuracy and consistency, especially when shooting the Blackhawk one-handed. It has definitely outperformed my expectations compared to the original grips and other aftermarket options I’ve tried on other revolvers.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Rubber Monogrip Ruger Blackhawk/Single Six
Specifications
- Type: Grip. This is a replacement grip designed to enhance the ergonomics and recoil absorption of Ruger Blackhawk and Single Six revolvers.
- Model: Monogrip. The single-piece design ensures a seamless and secure fit, maximizing comfort and control.
- Material: Rubber. Hogue’s renowned rubber compound provides exceptional grip, even in wet or sweaty conditions, and absorbs recoil effectively.
- Part Number: 83000. This ensures you are getting the correct grip specifically designed for the Ruger Blackhawk and Single Six.
These specifications are crucial for a few reasons. The rubber material directly impacts recoil management and grip security. The Monogrip design simplifies installation and guarantees a tight, integrated fit, resulting in improved handling and shooting comfort.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Rubber Monogrip excels at its primary job: improving the shooter’s grip and mitigating recoil. Accuracy is enhanced due to the more stable platform the grip provides. Functionality is straightforward; it’s a simple, effective upgrade with no moving parts or complex adjustments.
The grip’s strength lies in its recoil absorption and enhanced grip texture. A potential weakness could be the added bulk, which might not appeal to shooters with smaller hands. Overall, it exceeded my expectations in terms of comfort and control, making shooting magnum loads far more pleasurable.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Rubber Monogrip boasts a simple yet effective design. The rubber material is durable and provides a comfortable, slightly tacky feel. The added bulk fills the hand nicely, promoting a more secure and confident grip.
The design is intuitive, requiring no special tools or skills for installation. There is a slight learning curve in terms of getting used to the increased grip size, but the benefits in control and comfort far outweigh this minor adjustment.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Rubber Monogrip is built to last. The rubber compound is resistant to wear, tear, and most common cleaning solvents. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient to keep the grip clean and in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Rubber Monogrip is a standalone accessory. It doesn’t require any additional parts or modifications to install. While it doesn’t directly interface with other accessories like optics, its enhanced grip can improve overall shooting performance, indirectly benefiting the use of other accessories.
It is compatible with the Ruger Blackhawk and Single Six models. Some users have reported success using it on similar single-action revolvers, but fitment is not guaranteed. The Hogue grip does not generally require further customization, as its primary purpose is to enhance the grip itself.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Rubber Monogrip Ruger Blackhawk/Single Six
Pros
- Significantly reduces felt recoil, especially with magnum loads.
- Provides a more secure and comfortable grip, even with sweaty hands.
- Simple installation with no gunsmithing required.
- Durable rubber construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Improved accuracy and control for enhanced shooting experience.
Cons
- Adds noticeable bulk to the grip, which may not be ideal for smaller hands.
- Some users may find the rubber material less aesthetically pleasing than wood or other grip materials.
Who Should Buy Hogue Rubber Monogrip Ruger Blackhawk/Single Six?
The Hogue Rubber Monogrip Ruger Blackhawk/Single Six is perfect for:
- Ruger Blackhawk and Single Six owners seeking improved comfort and recoil management.
- Hunters and recreational shooters who frequently use magnum loads.
- Anyone who wants a more secure and confident grip in various weather conditions.
This product might not be ideal for shooters with very small hands who prefer a slimmer grip profile or those prioritizing aesthetics over functionality.
A must-have accessory for installation is a small screwdriver to help align the stirrup nut. No other modifications are generally necessary.
Conclusion on Hogue Rubber Monogrip Ruger Blackhawk/Single Six
The Hogue Rubber Monogrip Ruger Blackhawk/Single Six is a fantastic upgrade for anyone looking to enhance the comfort and control of their single-action revolver. It effectively tames recoil, provides a secure grip, and is built to last. At $29.99, the price is more than justified for the significant improvement in shooting experience it offers.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this grip to any Ruger Blackhawk or Single Six owner struggling with recoil or seeking a more comfortable and secure hold. If you’re tired of your hand stinging after a range session, give the Hogue grip a try – you won’t be disappointed. Upgrade your grip, upgrade your shooting experience!