Let’s Dive into Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Medium size – Black 00720
Recoil. That unwelcome jolt that can make a long day at the range feel even longer, or worse, instill a flinch that ruins your hunting accuracy. That’s where the Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Medium size – Black 00720 steps in, promising to tame that bucking bronco and let you focus on the target. Designed by Hogue, a name synonymous with quality grips and firearm accessories, this recoil pad aims to provide comfort and control without breaking the bank.
I’ve always been sensitive to recoil, especially with larger calibers. My shoulder would be screaming after a morning of patterning my shotgun or sighting in a new deer rifle. I needed a solution that didn’t involve expensive custom stock work.
The Hogue EZG Recoil Pad arrived in a simple blister pack. The black elastomer immediately felt grippy and dense. The build quality seemed solid, a reassuring sign from Hogue.
I considered a Limbsaver pad and a Pachmayr Decelerator, but the Hogue stood out due to its EZG (Easy-to-Grind) base plate. It promised a quicker, cleaner fit to my existing stocks. The price point, hovering around $30, sealed the deal.
Initial impressions were positive. The pad felt substantial, yet not overly heavy. I was eager to see if it lived up to its claims of recoil reduction and easy installation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Medium size – Black 00720 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test was on a 12-gauge shotgun I use for trap shooting. I installed the Hogue EZG Recoil Pad myself, a process that took about an hour including careful grinding and fitting. The range was my local club, a familiar setting where I could easily compare performance against my pre-pad experiences.
The difference was immediately noticeable. Recoil felt significantly reduced, a dull push instead of a sharp jab. I even tested it in slightly damp conditions, and the elastomer maintained a solid grip against my shoulder.
Installation required some patience to get a perfect fit. I initially rushed the grinding process and had to make minor corrections. However, even with my amateur gunsmithing skills, the result was a secure and functional recoil pad.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of rounds fired through various firearms, the Hogue EZG Recoil Pad continues to perform admirably. There are no signs of cracking or deformation in the elastomer. The pad remains securely attached to the stocks.
Cleaning is simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth removes any residue. I have noticed some very minor scuff marks, but nothing that affects performance or aesthetics.
Compared to shooting without a pad or with the factory-installed hard plastic buttplate, the Hogue EZG Recoil Pad is a night-and-day difference. It allows me to shoot longer and with greater accuracy, minimizing fatigue and flinching. It definitely outperforms my expectations for a pad in this price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Medium size – Black 00720
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hogue. A well known name in the firearm accessory world.
- Color: Black, a versatile color that blends well with most stocks.
- Finish: Matte, reducing glare and providing a non-slip surface.
- Fabric/Material: Elastomer. Hogue’s proprietary recoil-reducing elastomer is the key to its performance.
- Additional Features: Buttpad. Designed to be grind-to-fit, ensuring a custom installation.
These specifications are essential because they directly impact the pad’s effectiveness and ease of installation. The elastomer provides the necessary cushioning to reduce recoil, while the matte finish ensures a secure grip. The grind-to-fit design allows for a tailored fit to a variety of stocks.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue EZG Recoil Pad’s primary function is to reduce felt recoil, and it excels in this area. The elastomer absorbs a significant amount of the impact, making shooting more comfortable, especially with high-recoil firearms. This directly translates to better accuracy and reduced fatigue.
The primary strength lies in its recoil reduction capabilities. The grinding process, while requiring patience, allows for a seamless integration with the stock. A potential weakness is that precise fitting requires tools and some level of skill, though a gunsmith can easily provide this service.
It meets and somewhat exceeds expectations. I was skeptical that a $30 pad could make a significant difference. However, the Hogue EZG delivers noticeable recoil reduction without compromising the firearm’s balance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue EZG Recoil Pad features a simple, functional design. The black elastomer provides a sleek, non-reflective finish. The medium size fits a wide range of shoulder profiles comfortably.
The material feels durable and offers a good grip, even when wet. The pad is relatively lightweight, so it does not significantly alter the firearm’s balance. While grinding is required, Hogue’s EZG base makes the process manageable.
Durability & Maintenance
The elastomer material is resistant to cracking and deformation. After weeks of use, there are no signs of significant wear. The pad is easy to clean with mild soap and water.
I expect the Hogue EZG Recoil Pad to last for years with proper care. The simplicity of the design minimizes potential failure points. The elastomer construction resists environmental damage better than many other recoil pads.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue EZG Recoil Pad does not come with any specific accessories. Its main customization option is the grind-to-fit design, which allows users to tailor the pad to their specific stock dimensions. This is a significant advantage, as it ensures a seamless and secure fit.
The pad is compatible with a wide range of firearms, provided that the stock dimensions are within the pad’s size range. Aftermarket stock shims can be used to adjust the fit further. This is an advantage over pre-shaped pads that only fit certain stock types.
Pros and Cons of Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Medium size – Black 00720
Pros
- Noticeable recoil reduction, enhancing shooting comfort and accuracy.
- EZG (Easy-to-Grind) base simplifies the fitting process.
- Durable elastomer construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible to a wide range of shooters.
- Matte black finish blends seamlessly with most stocks.
Cons
- Grinding and fitting require tools and some level of skill.
- Limited color options; only available in black.
Who Should Buy Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Medium size – Black 00720?
The Hogue EZG Recoil Pad is perfect for hunters, recreational shooters, and anyone who wants to reduce felt recoil without investing in expensive custom work. It’s an excellent choice for those who shoot magnum calibers or frequently spend time at the range. Those with some basic DIY skills and access to grinding tools will find installation straightforward.
This product might not be ideal for those who lack the tools or confidence to perform the grinding and fitting. Also, shooters looking for a pre-fitted, drop-in solution might prefer a different product.
A must-have accessory for installation is a belt sander or rotary tool with a grinding attachment. A stock finishing kit can also help to blend the edges seamlessly.
Conclusion on Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Medium size – Black 00720
The Hogue EZG Recoil Pad Medium size – Black 00720 is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking to mitigate recoil. It delivers on its promise of comfort and control. The grind-to-fit design provides a custom fit at an affordable price.
The price is more than justified considering the performance and durability. While installation requires some effort, the results are well worth it. The Hogue EZG transforms shooting from a painful chore into an enjoyable experience.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Hogue EZG Recoil Pad. It’s a simple, effective, and budget-friendly way to enhance your shooting experience. So, tame that recoil and get back to enjoying your time at the range!