The Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR Made a Bold First Impression
The Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR promises enhanced comfort and control for Ruger LCR revolvers. As someone who spends a significant amount of time at the range and in the field, I’m always looking for ways to improve the ergonomics of my firearms. The compact Ruger LCR is a fantastic concealed carry option, but its factory grip can be a bit…minimalist.
I was hoping to tame the LCR’s snappy recoil and get a more secure purchase. My main concern was finding a grip that added size without sacrificing concealability. I’d previously tried a couple of slip-on grips that felt cheap and moved around during firing. This is why I opted to give the Hogue a chance.
Unboxing the Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR, I immediately noticed the quality of the rubber and polymer materials. The cobblestone texture felt grippy and secure. The grip felt substantial and well-made, promising a significant upgrade over the factory grip.
I considered the Pachmayr Diamond Pro grip, known for its aggressive texture. I also looked at the Crimson Trace laser grips, but they added unwanted bulk and cost. Ultimately, I chose the Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR because it seemed like the best balance of size, comfort, and affordability. The promise of improved recoil absorption was also a major selling point.
My first impression was definitely positive. The Hogue grip felt like a serious upgrade. I was eager to get to the range and see how it performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was typical for early spring: cool and slightly damp. I ran about 100 rounds of .38 Special and .38 Special +P ammunition through my Ruger LCR, focusing on grip and recoil management.
The difference between the factory grip and the Hogue was immediately noticeable. The Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR provided a much more secure and comfortable grip, significantly reducing felt recoil. The textured surface ensured a solid hold, even with slightly sweaty hands.
Installation was simple, following the included instructions. The grip added a bit of size to the LCR, but it was a worthwhile trade-off for the improved control. Initially, I was concerned about the added size impacting concealability, but it turned out to be a non-issue.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear or tear, even after hundreds of rounds fired. The rubber material remains grippy, and the polymer frame is still solid.
Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. Compared to my previous experiences with slip-on grips, the Hogue is in a different class. This grip drastically outperforms the stock LCR grip when using +P rounds.
The Hogue grip has become an essential upgrade to my Ruger LCR. The improved comfort and control have made shooting the LCR a much more enjoyable experience. It gives me a sense of confidence I never had with the stock grip.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR
Specifications
The Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR is specifically designed for Ruger LCR, LCRx, and enclosed hammer LCR models. It’s constructed with a combination of a durable polymer frame and a comfortable rubber overmold. The textured rubber surfaces, with their small cobblestone pattern, provide a secure and tactile grip.
This grip is a “boot grip” style, meaning it’s designed to be compact yet provide a full-handed grip. It adds a bit of length and width to the LCR’s frame without significantly impacting concealability. The Hogue grip replaces the factory grip entirely and is secured with a single screw.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the revolver’s handling and shootability. The improved grip reduces felt recoil and allows for faster follow-up shots. The added size enhances control, particularly for those with larger hands.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR excels in providing enhanced grip and recoil absorption. The rubber material effectively cushions the hand, reducing the impact of recoil, especially with +P ammunition. The textured surface ensures a secure grip, even in wet or sweaty conditions.
The grip’s design promotes a more natural and comfortable hand position. This leads to improved accuracy and control. While the grip adds some size, it’s a worthwhile trade-off for the significant improvement in handling.
The only minor weakness might be the slightly increased overall size for those prioritizing ultimate concealability. However, for most users, the benefits far outweigh this minor drawback. This Hogue grip meets and exceeds expectations as a major comfort upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR is excellent. The materials feel durable and well-made. The grip’s weight is negligible, adding little to the overall weight of the revolver.
The ergonomic design promotes a comfortable and secure grip. The cobblestone texture provides excellent traction without being overly aggressive. There is no significant learning curve. Installing the Hogue grip is easy and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR is built to last. The durable materials are resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the grip in good condition. The rubber material is resistant to solvents and oils, making cleaning easy.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with most holsters designed for the Ruger LCR. There are no specific customization options for this particular grip, but the improved grip enhances the LCRs usability.
Users can further customize their LCR with accessories such as laser sights or aftermarket triggers. The Hogue grip provides a solid foundation for any further modifications. The grip’s secure fit ensures that it won’t interfere with other accessories.
Pros and Cons of Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR
Pros
- Significantly reduces felt recoil, especially with +P ammunition.
- Provides a much more secure and comfortable grip compared to the factory grip.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Affordable upgrade that greatly enhances the shootability of the Ruger LCR.
Cons
- Adds slightly to the overall size of the revolver, potentially impacting concealability for some users.
- The cobblestone texture, while grippy, might be too aggressive for some users’ preferences.
Who Should Buy Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR?
The Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR is perfect for anyone who owns a Ruger LCR and wants to improve its comfort and control. It is particularly beneficial for shooters who use +P ammunition or have larger hands. This grip is also a great choice for those who carry the LCR for self-defense and want a more secure and reliable grip.
Those who prioritize ultimate concealability above all else might want to consider other options. Individuals with very sensitive hands might find the cobblestone texture too abrasive. Must-have modifications would include a quality holster designed to accommodate the slightly larger grip.
Conclusion on Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR
The Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR is a worthwhile upgrade for any Ruger LCR owner. It provides a significant improvement in comfort, control, and recoil management. The grip is well-made, durable, and easy to install.
The price of $33.96 is more than justified by the enhanced performance and shooting experience. I would definitely recommend this grip to anyone looking to improve their Ruger LCR.
If you’re tired of the uncomfortable recoil of your LCR, give the Hogue TAMER GRIP Black RUG LCR a try. You won’t be disappointed. Take control of your LCR today!