Let’s Dive into Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730 promises a significant reduction in felt recoil for Remington 870, 11-87, and 1100 shotguns with wood stocks. This pre-sized pad from Hogue boasts easy DIY installation, a cushioned elastomer for shock absorption, and a rigid polymer base. It’s designed to improve both comfort and aesthetics, a proposition that definitely piqued my interest after years of shouldering heavy loads in the field.
I’ve been chasing a solution to the brutal recoil of my trusty old Remington 870 for years. Countless dove hunts and trap shooting sessions have left my shoulder bruised and aching. I wanted something that wouldn’t drastically alter the look of my shotgun but would make shooting it for extended periods less of a punishment.
Upon unboxing the Hogue EZG recoil pad, I was immediately impressed by the feel of the materials. The elastomer had a nice, grippy texture, and the polymer base felt sturdy and well-made. The weight felt right, not too heavy to throw off the balance of the shotgun, but substantial enough to suggest it would effectively dampen recoil.
I considered a Limbsaver pad and a Pachmayr Decelerator, but ultimately chose the Hogue for its promise of easy, pre-sized installation. The others seemed to require more fitting and grinding, and I wanted a quick and simple upgrade. My initial impression was cautiously optimistic; I was eager to see if the Hogue EZG could live up to its claims of enhanced comfort.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hogue EZG recoil pad at my local shooting range, focusing on trap and skeet shooting. I cycled through several boxes of 12-gauge shells to get a good feel for the difference the pad made. The weather was sunny and mild, ideal conditions for a comfortable shooting session.
The installation was as easy as Hogue claimed; a few minutes with a screwdriver and the old pad was off, the new one on. Immediately, I noticed a reduction in felt recoil. The Hogue EZG absorbed a significant amount of the impact, making it much more comfortable to shoot multiple rounds.
There were no immediate issues. The pad stayed securely in place, and the grip was excellent, even with sweaty hands. My initial skepticism melted away as I realized this simple upgrade was a game-changer.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a dove hunting trip and numerous range visits, the Hogue EZG recoil pad has held up remarkably well. There are no noticeable signs of wear and tear, and the elastomer still feels as grippy as when it was new. Cleaning is simple – a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes.
Compared to my previous experiences with the stock recoil pad, the Hogue EZG is a night-and-day difference. I can now shoot for extended periods without experiencing the shoulder fatigue and bruising I used to dread. This pad has significantly improved my shooting experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hogue.
- Color: Black.
- Fabric/Material: Wood (referring to the stock compatibility, not the pad material itself).
- Gun Model: Remington Model 870/11-87/1100 (wood stock models).
- Condition: New.
These specifications are important because they ensure proper fit and function. The Hogue EZG is specifically designed for Remington shotguns with wood stocks, guaranteeing a seamless integration. The black color is a classic choice that complements most wood finishes, and the Hogue name signifies a commitment to quality.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Hogue EZG recoil pad is to reduce felt recoil, and it excels in this regard. The cushioned elastomer effectively absorbs shock, making shooting more comfortable. It provides a secure and stable shooting platform.
Its strength is its simplicity and effectiveness. One area for improvement might be offering different thicknesses for varying recoil reduction needs. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a simple recoil-reducing upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue EZG recoil pad features a clean, understated design that complements the look of classic wood-stocked shotguns. The elastomer provides a comfortable and grippy surface. It makes shouldering the shotgun feel more secure.
The pad is user-friendly and requires no special tools or skills for installation. The pre-sized design ensures a near-perfect fit with minimal effort. There’s virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The combination of a rigid polymer base and a durable elastomer suggests that the Hogue EZG recoil pad will last for years with proper care. The materials are resistant to wear and tear, even under heavy use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue EZG recoil pad doesn’t come with any additional accessories, as it’s a standalone product designed for a specific purpose. However, it is compatible with aftermarket sling mounts that attach to the stock. Its simplicity and effectiveness make it an attractive upgrade.
Pros and Cons of Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730
Pros
- Significantly reduces felt recoil, enhancing shooting comfort.
- Easy DIY installation with a pre-sized design for a seamless fit.
- Durable construction using high-quality elastomer and polymer materials.
- Provides a secure and grippy shooting platform, improving control.
- Maintains the classic look of wood-stocked Remington shotguns.
Cons
- Limited customization options (thickness, color variations).
- May require minor fitting on some older or non-standard wood stocks.
Who Should Buy Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730?
The Hogue EZG recoil pad is perfect for hunters, trap and skeet shooters, and anyone who experiences discomfort from the recoil of their Remington 870, 11-87, or 1100 shotgun. It is beneficial for shooters of all ages and experience levels. Particularly those with shoulder injuries or sensitivities.
Anyone seeking a significant reduction in recoil without permanently altering their shotgun’s appearance should buy this product.
Those who should skip this product are shooters who prefer a more aggressive or customizable recoil reduction system, such as adjustable stocks or hydraulic recoil buffers. Also, it’s not intended for synthetic stocks.
A must-have modification would be adding a quality sling for comfortable carrying of your shotgun in the field.
Conclusion on Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730 is a simple, effective, and affordable upgrade that delivers on its promise of reducing felt recoil. The price of $39.79 is more than justified. I now enjoy shooting my Remington 870 without the shoulder-pounding pain I used to endure.
I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking to improve their shooting experience with a classic wood-stocked Remington shotgun. If you’re tired of the punishing recoil, invest in a Hogue EZG and rediscover the joy of shooting.