First Thoughts on the Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500
The Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 pistol grip is an aftermarket accessory designed to enhance the comfort and control of Mossberg 500 and Maverick 88 shotguns. Hogue is renowned for its high-quality rubber grips, and the TAMER pistol grip promises to reduce recoil and improve handling. I’ve always believed that a shotgun, especially in a pistol grip configuration, should be controllable and comfortable, not something you dread shooting.
My search for the Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 began after a particularly brutal range session with my Maverick 88. The factory polymer pistol grip was punishing, transferring all the recoil directly into my hand. I was looking for a solution that would make shooting my shotgun more enjoyable, allowing for better control and faster follow-up shots.
Upon unboxing the Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the rubber. It felt substantial and grippy, a far cry from the hard plastic of the original grip. The weight felt balanced, and the overall design appeared well-thought-out.
I considered other pistol grips like the Pachmayr Vindicator and some generic, cheaper options on Amazon. Ultimately, I chose the Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 due to Hogue’s reputation for quality and the specific “TAMER” design intended to mitigate recoil. The reviews I read online also heavily favored the Hogue grip.
My first impression was excitement mixed with relief. I was eager to install it and see if it lived up to the hype. This seemed like the perfect solution to transform my punishing Maverick 88 into a controllable and enjoyable firearm.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 was at my local outdoor shooting range. I specifically brought a variety of ammunition, from light target loads to heavy 00 buckshot and slugs, to truly test its recoil-dampening capabilities. The weather was sunny and dry, ideal conditions for shooting.
The difference was immediately noticeable. The Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 significantly reduced felt recoil, making even the heavy loads manageable. The textured rubber provided a secure grip, even with sweaty hands.
Installation was straightforward, taking only a few minutes with basic tools. I didn’t need any specialized knowledge, and the grip fit perfectly on my Maverick 88. There were no gaps or loose connections.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of wear and tear, despite being subjected to hundreds of rounds. The rubber still feels as grippy as the day I installed it.
Cleaning is simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each range session. It hasn’t shown any signs of degradation from solvents or oils used for cleaning the shotgun itself. The material used truly stands up to the claims made by Hogue.
Compared to my previous experience with the factory pistol grip, the Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 is a night-and-day difference. It has transformed my shotgun from something I dreaded shooting into something I actually enjoy using. The increased control and reduced recoil have also improved my accuracy.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500
Specifications
Type: Pistol Grip. It replaces the existing pistol grip on Mossberg 500 and Maverick 88 shotguns.
Model: OverMolded Tamer. The “Tamer” designation indicates a focus on recoil reduction.
Material: Rubber. Hogue uses a proprietary synthetic rubber designed to be durable and resistant to solvents and oils. This ensures longevity and consistent performance.
Compatibility: Designed for Mossberg 500 and Maverick 88 shotguns. It may fit other similar shotgun models, but this is not guaranteed.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the grip’s performance and durability. The rubber material is crucial for absorbing recoil, while the specific design ensures a secure and comfortable grip. The compatibility is key for ensuring a proper and safe fit on the intended shotgun models.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 excels at its primary job: reducing recoil and improving handling. The rubber material effectively absorbs a significant amount of the shock from each shot. This allows for faster follow-up shots and reduces fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
The grip’s strengths lie in its comfortable design, recoil-dampening capabilities, and durable construction. A minor weakness might be the lack of finger grooves for some users, as that is purely a personal preference. Overall, the Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 meets and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 features a well-designed ergonomic shape that fits comfortably in the hand. The rubber material provides a secure and non-slip grip, even with sweaty hands or in wet conditions. The weight is balanced, and it doesn’t feel bulky or unwieldy.
The grip is incredibly user-friendly, requiring no special tools or skills to install. The design is simple and intuitive, with no unnecessary frills or complexities. It is a direct replacement for the factory grip, making the swap quick and easy.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 is built to last. The synthetic rubber material is highly resistant to wear and tear, as well as solvents and oils commonly used in firearm maintenance. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. Just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each use. Occasional cleaning with a mild soap and water solution can remove any stubborn dirt or grime. No special tools or products are required.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 itself doesn’t come with any accessories. The main customization option is the grip itself! It enhances the shotgun with improved recoil absorption and ergonomics.
While not directly related to the grip itself, the improved handling and recoil reduction provided by the Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 can indirectly enhance the performance of other accessories. For example, better recoil management can improve the effectiveness of sights and optics. It makes the weapon system more capable, as a whole.
Pros and Cons of Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500
Pros
- Significantly reduces felt recoil, improving comfort and control.
- Provides a secure and non-slip grip, even in wet conditions.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install with no special tools required.
- Great value for the price, providing a noticeable improvement in handling.
Cons
- Lack of finger grooves may not be ideal for all users (personal preference).
- Limited customization options beyond the grip itself.
Who Should Buy Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500?
The Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 is perfect for shotgun owners who want to improve the comfort and control of their firearm. It is especially beneficial for those who use their shotguns for home defense, recreational shooting, or hunting. Anyone who finds the factory pistol grip uncomfortable or punishing will appreciate the recoil-dampening benefits of the Hogue grip.
This product may not be necessary for those who primarily use their shotgun with a traditional stock. Also, shooters who are highly recoil-tolerant might not find the improvement as significant. If you prefer a very aggressive or heavily textured grip, you might also want to explore other options.
A must-have accessory to complement the Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 is a quality sling. The improved control makes the weapon handier, and a sling is a necessity when using any weapon in tactical situations. A light is also highly recommended.
Conclusion on Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500
The Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 is an excellent upgrade for any Mossberg 500 or Maverick 88 shotgun owner seeking improved comfort and control. Its recoil-dampening capabilities, durable construction, and easy installation make it a worthwhile investment. The difference it makes in handling is significant.
At a price of $25.49, the Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 offers exceptional value. The improvement in comfort and control is well worth the cost. It’s a relatively inexpensive upgrade that can significantly enhance the shooting experience.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 to anyone looking to improve the handling and comfort of their shotgun. It’s a simple yet effective upgrade that can make a world of difference. Don’t suffer through another range session with a punishing factory grip – upgrade to the Hogue TAMER PG MOSS 500 and experience the difference for yourself!