Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate Review

The Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate Made a Bold First Impression

The Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate promised a subtle yet significant upgrade to my trusted .44 Magnum. As someone who’s spent over a decade immersed in the world of tactical and outdoor gear, I’ve developed a keen eye for quality and a healthy skepticism for marketing hype. I was looking for a grip that would enhance both the aesthetics and the feel of my Super Blackhawk, without breaking the bank.

My existing grips were showing their age, worn smooth from years of use in the field. They had lost their grip, literally and figuratively. I needed something that provided a more secure and comfortable hold, especially when handling the Super Blackhawk’s considerable recoil. The promise of improved control and a classic aesthetic drew me to the Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate.

Unboxing these grips, I was immediately struck by their sleek, dark appearance. The black laminate had a smooth, almost polished feel, but with a subtle texture that hinted at a solid grip. The weight felt balanced and substantial, suggesting a well-made product. They appeared to be a significant step up from the factory grips in terms of both visual appeal and tactile quality.

I considered several other grip options before settling on these. Hogue’s rubber grips are a popular choice for recoil absorption, but they lack the classic look I was after. Altamont offers some beautifully figured wood grips, but they often come with a significantly higher price tag. The Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate offered a balance of aesthetics, functionality, and affordability that I found compelling.

My first impression was one of cautious optimism. They looked fantastic, and the laminate felt durable. I was eager to get them installed and see how they performed under the punishing recoil of my .44 Magnum. These grips promised a classic aesthetic and improved handling. I hoped they would deliver.

Real-World Testing: Putting Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate was at my local outdoor shooting range. It was a moderately warm day, with a slight breeze. I wanted to test the grips under realistic conditions, simulating the kind of environments where I typically use my Super Blackhawk – hunting trips and backcountry excursions.

The first few shots were a revelation. The grips provided a much more secure and comfortable hold compared to the worn factory grips. The black laminate felt grippy even with slightly sweaty hands, and the recoil was noticeably more manageable. The square butt design provided a solid anchor point, preventing the gun from twisting in my hand during recoil.

Installation was simple. The factory grips came off with ease, and the Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate slid into place perfectly. No modifications were necessary. I was pleasantly surprised by the immediate improvement in both comfort and control.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate have proven to be remarkably durable. There are no signs of wear or tear, despite being subjected to the rigors of range shooting and a couple of hunting trips. The laminate has held up exceptionally well. It has resisted scratches and maintains its smooth, consistent finish.

Maintenance is simple. I simply wipe them down with a clean cloth after each use to remove any dirt or grime. Occasionally, I’ll use a very light coat of gun oil to protect the laminate and keep it looking its best. They are very easy to clean. They require virtually no special care.

Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket grips, these Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate have significantly outperformed my expectations. They offer a superior combination of comfort, control, and durability at an affordable price point. The factory grips were slippery. These grips are a huge upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate

Specifications

• Fits: Specifically designed for the Super Blackhawk® Hunter, .44 Mag models with square grip frames. This ensures a perfect fit and seamless integration with the firearm.
• Material: Constructed from durable black laminate wood. This provides both a classic aesthetic and a robust gripping surface.
• Grip Style: Features a square butt design for enhanced recoil control. The square shape offers a solid anchor point in the hand.

These specifications are crucial for optimal performance. The precise fit guarantees stability and prevents the grips from shifting during firing. The black laminate provides a comfortable and secure grip, while the square butt design helps to mitigate recoil and improve accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

The Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate significantly enhance the overall shooting experience. Their superior grip improves control, leading to better accuracy and reduced felt recoil. The grips function flawlessly. They provide a noticeable improvement over the factory grips.

The primary strength of these grips lies in their enhanced control and comfort. The textured laminate and square butt design provide a secure and comfortable hold, even when firing powerful .44 Magnum rounds. One potential weakness might be that the laminate, while durable, might not offer the same level of shock absorption as rubber grips.

These grips meet and exceed expectations for their price point. They deliver on their promise of improved comfort, control, and aesthetics. They are a worthwhile upgrade for any Super Blackhawk owner.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of the Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate is excellent. The black laminate feels solid and well-finished, with no rough edges or imperfections. The weight is balanced and feels comfortable in the hand, contributing to improved control and accuracy.

The grips are very user-friendly and require no special tools or skills to install. The installation process is straightforward. Even a novice can easily swap out their existing grips with these.

Durability & Maintenance

The Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate are built to last. The durable laminate construction ensures that they can withstand years of use without showing signs of wear and tear. With proper care, they will likely outlast the firearm itself.

Maintenance is minimal. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional application of gun oil are all that is needed to keep these grips in top condition. Their simple design and robust materials make them easy to maintain.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate are primarily a standalone upgrade. They are not designed to be used with additional accessories beyond standard grip screws. Their classic design complements a variety of holster options and other Super Blackhawk accessories.

While these grips don’t offer extensive customization options, their classic design allows them to integrate seamlessly with a wide range of Super Blackhawk accessories, such as custom hammers and triggers. The grips are compatible with any standard Super Blackhawk holster designed for square-butt grips.

Pros and Cons of Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate