The Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage Made a Bold First Impression
The Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage immediately caught my eye due to its promise of enhanced comfort and the added utility of a storage compartment. As someone who’s spent over a decade handling and customizing AR-15 platforms, I’m always on the lookout for practical upgrades that improve both feel and function. This grip from Hogue appeared to offer just that, with its renowned rubber overmold and the clever integration of a storage space.
My primary motivation for seeking a new AR-15 grip stemmed from a desire to improve my rifle’s ergonomics and add a convenient way to carry small essentials. Factory grips often leave much to be desired in terms of comfort and texture. I wanted a grip that would provide a more secure and comfortable hold, especially during extended range sessions.
Upon unboxing, the Hogue grip felt immediately superior to standard mil-spec options. The rubber overmold provided a noticeably more tactile and comfortable surface. The grip felt solid and well-made.
I considered the Magpul MOE grip and the BCM Gunfighter grip before settling on the Hogue. While both are excellent options, the Hogue’s reputation for exceptional comfort and the added storage capacity ultimately swayed my decision. The Hogue promised a more significant improvement in grip texture and the storage feature added a practical dimension missing from the other two.
My first impression was overwhelmingly positive. The Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage felt like a premium upgrade, offering both enhanced comfort and added functionality in a single, well-designed package. I was eager to get it installed and test it out at the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, providing optimal conditions for evaluating the grip’s feel and performance. I ran several drills, focusing on rapid target acquisition and sustained fire to assess comfort and control.
The Hogue grip truly shined under these conditions. The rubber overmold provided an exceptional grip, even with slightly sweaty hands. I immediately noticed an improvement in my control over the rifle, allowing for faster and more accurate follow-up shots. The grip felt more secure than the original mil-spec grip.
The ergonomic design of the Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage required no adjustment period. It felt natural in my hand from the start. The palm swell provided a comfortable and supportive grip that significantly reduced fatigue during longer shooting sessions.
After the initial range session, I discovered that the storage compartment was ideal for holding a spare battery for my optic. It securely held the battery and was easily accessible when needed. This added functionality made the Hogue grip even more valuable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage has held up remarkably well. It’s become an integral part of my AR-15 setup. The grip has accompanied me on multiple range trips and even a few outdoor excursions in varying weather conditions.
Despite being exposed to sun, rain, and occasional bumps and scrapes, the rubber overmold shows minimal signs of wear. The grip remains as comfortable and secure as it was on day one. I’ve found that the Hogue grip is very durable.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes to remove dirt and grime. The rubber material is resistant to solvents and oils, making it easy to keep clean and looking new.
Compared to my previous experiences with standard AR-15 grips, the Hogue is a significant improvement. It offers superior comfort, enhanced control, and the added benefit of a functional storage compartment. I am very satisfied with its performance.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage
Specifications
The Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage is specifically designed for AR-15/M-16 platforms. The grip features Hogue’s renowned OverMolded rubber construction, known for its exceptional comfort and durability. The grip also incorporates a convenient storage compartment located in the base of the grip.
- Type: Tactical Grip
- Model: OverMolded
- Finish: Cobblestone
- Material: Rubber
These specifications directly translate to enhanced user experience. The rubber construction provides a superior grip, even in wet or gloved conditions. The storage compartment offers a practical solution for carrying small essential items.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage excels in providing a more comfortable and secure grip on the AR-15 platform. The OverMolded rubber conforms to the hand, reducing felt recoil and improving control. The integrated storage compartment adds a practical element, allowing users to carry spare batteries, small tools, or other essential items directly within the grip.
The grip’s primary strength lies in its exceptional comfort and enhanced control. The rubber overmold provides a tactile and secure grip. A potential weakness could be the size of the storage compartment, which is limited to smaller items.
Overall, the Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage meets and exceeds expectations. It delivers on its promise of enhanced comfort, improved control, and added functionality. It noticeably enhances the rifle’s ergonomics.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage features a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both comfort and functionality. The rubber overmold provides a comfortable and tactile surface. The palm swells and finger grooves promote a secure and ergonomic grip.
The grip is lightweight and does not significantly alter the balance of the rifle. The installation process is straightforward and requires no specialized tools. It easily replaces existing grips.
The design is exceptionally user-friendly. The Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage feels natural in the hand and requires no learning curve. Its design promotes a comfortable and repeatable grip.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage is built to last. The durable rubber construction is resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, the grip should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is generally sufficient to keep the grip clean. The rubber material is resistant to common solvents and oils.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage does not require any specific accessories for optimal performance. However, users can further enhance its functionality by utilizing the internal storage compartment. This compartment can accommodate spare batteries for optics, small multi-tools, or other essential items.
The grip is compatible with standard AR-15 lower receivers. It will seamlessly integrate with a wide range of AR-15 builds. The Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage is designed to be a standalone upgrade.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage
Pros
- Exceptional comfort due to the Hogue OverMolded rubber construction.
- Enhanced control and grip, even in wet conditions.
- Convenient internal storage compartment for small essential items.
- Durable and long-lasting rubber material.
- Easy installation and compatibility with standard AR-15 lower receivers.
Cons
- The storage compartment is limited in size.
- The rubber can become slightly sticky in very hot and humid conditions.
Who Should Buy Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage?
The Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage is perfect for AR-15 owners looking to improve the comfort and control of their rifle. This includes recreational shooters, tactical enthusiasts, and home defense proponents. It also serves well for those who value having a convenient storage solution for small essential items.
This grip might not be ideal for competitive shooters who prioritize extremely lightweight components or those who require a larger storage capacity. If you don’t care about the rubber grip and storage this would not be the grip for you.
A must-have accessory for this grip is a small, durable container to organize the contents of the storage compartment. This will prevent items from rattling around and ensure easy access. A spare battery for your optic would be another great add-on.
Conclusion on Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage
The Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage is an excellent upgrade for any AR-15 platform. It provides a noticeable improvement in comfort and control. The added storage compartment is a practical and welcome feature.
At $29.99, the Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage represents excellent value. The enhanced comfort, improved control, and added functionality justify the price. It is a worthwhile investment for any AR-15 owner seeking a tangible upgrade.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Hogue Black Rubber AR15 Grip w/Storage. It’s a well-designed, durable, and functional upgrade that significantly enhances the AR-15 shooting experience. Upgrade your AR-15 today and experience the difference a Hogue grip can make!