The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 Made a Bold First Impression
The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 grip and forend set promised an upgrade to my trusty Remington 870, a shotgun I’ve relied on for years in various roles – from home defense to occasional upland bird hunts. I was particularly drawn to Hogue’s reputation for quality rubber grips that offer improved recoil absorption and a more secure hold. Could this relatively inexpensive upgrade truly transform the feel and handling of my shotgun?
My factory Remington 870’s furniture was functional, but the plastic forend felt slick, especially in wet conditions, and the stock offered minimal recoil padding. I’d heard good things about the Hogue Tamer series, but the key selling point for me was the advertised improvement in grip and recoil management, something critical for quick follow-up shots. I’d considered Magpul’s SGA stock and forend, but the cost was significantly higher, and for my needs, the Hogue seemed like a more practical and budget-friendly option.
Unboxing the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870, I was immediately impressed by the feel of the Hogue’s rubber. It felt grippy without being sticky and had a quality, dense feel to it. The forend looked significantly shorter than the original Remington forend. I was excited to install the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 and see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 equipped was at my local outdoor range. I ran through several boxes of target loads, followed by a few rounds of buckshot to test its recoil management. The difference was immediately noticeable. The Hogue forend provided a much more positive grip, allowing for faster and more controlled cycling of the action, especially during rapid fire drills.
Testing was done on a clear, but slightly cold day. The ambient temperature was around 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Even with gloved hands, the Hogue rubber remained grippy and comfortable. I encountered no slipping or loss of control. The shorter forend actually felt like an advantage.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking, peeling, or deterioration of the rubber. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dirt and grime. Compared to the factory plastic furniture, the Hogue setup provides a vastly superior shooting experience, particularly in terms of control and recoil mitigation.
I regularly clean my firearms after each use, including the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870. I have experienced no issues with cleaning solvents impacting or damaging the rubber material. In fact, the Hogue material wipes clean much easier than the original Remington plastic.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870
Specifications
The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is specifically designed as a grip and forend replacement for the Remington 870 12-gauge shotgun. This direct-replacement design ensures a snug fit with minimal modification.
The grip and forend are molded from durable, synthetic rubber. Hogue’s proprietary rubber compound is designed to provide a comfortable, non-slip surface, even in wet or gloved conditions.
The forend length is shorter than the factory Remington 870 forend. This allows easier access to a receiver-mounted shell holder.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 significantly improves recoil absorption compared to factory plastic furniture. This results in a more comfortable shooting experience, especially with heavier loads.
The rubber grip provides a secure and comfortable hold. This increased grip enhances control during rapid firing and tactical maneuvers.
The shorter forend length allows for easier cycling of the action. This shorter length is especially beneficial for shooters with shorter arms or those who prefer a more compact setup. The only minor issue is the grip can sometimes creak slightly against the polymer frame of the stock.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is designed with ergonomics in mind. The grip features finger grooves and a palm swell for a comfortable and secure hold.
The rubber material provides a soft and comfortable shooting experience. It reduces fatigue during extended range sessions.
The Hogue grip is well-shaped and offers good control. However, the forend may feel slightly small for shooters with very large hands.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is made from durable synthetic rubber. Hogue’s rubber compound is resistant to solvents and oils commonly used around firearms.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is all that is needed to keep the grip and forend clean.
The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is built to last. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is a standalone grip and forend set. It doesn’t directly accommodate any specific accessories.
The shorter forend is compatible with most receiver-mounted shell holders. This allows for customization options without interference.
Users may choose to add aftermarket sling attachments to the stock. Also aftermarket lights can be mounted onto the front of the shotgun.
Pros and Cons of Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870
Pros
- Improved Recoil Absorption: The rubber material significantly reduces felt recoil, making shooting more comfortable.
- Enhanced Grip: The textured rubber provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
- Easy Installation: The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is a direct replacement for the factory furniture, making installation simple.
- Durable Construction: The rubber material is resistant to solvents and oils, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Affordable Upgrade: At around $34, the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 offers excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Potential Creaking: The grip may creak slightly against the polymer frame of the stock. This is purely a cosmetic issue and doesn’t affect performance.
- Shorter Forend: The forend may feel too short for shooters with very large hands.
Who Should Buy Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870?
The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is perfect for Remington 870 owners looking to improve recoil absorption and grip without breaking the bank. It is an excellent upgrade for home defense users, hunters, and recreational shooters alike. Anyone who wants a more comfortable and controllable shooting experience will benefit from this product.
This product is not ideal for shooters who prefer the traditional feel of wood furniture or those who require a longer forend for specific shooting styles. Those with very large hands might find the forend too short.
A must-have modification is to add a quality shell holder to the receiver for quick access to extra ammunition. A good weapon light mounted to the forend is also recommended for home defense applications.
Conclusion on Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870
The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 is a fantastic upgrade for any Remington 870 owner. It offers a noticeable improvement in recoil absorption, grip, and overall handling, all at a very reasonable price. The minor issue of potential creaking is easily overlooked given the many benefits this product provides.
The Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870’s price is definitely justified. The enhanced control and comfort it offers significantly improve the shooting experience.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Hogue TAMER PG/FD REM 870 to anyone looking to upgrade their Remington 870. It is a simple, effective, and affordable way to transform your shotgun. Upgrade your 870 today and experience the difference!