The Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate Made a Bold First Impression
The Ruger Super Blackhawk is a beast of a revolver, and its factory grips, while functional, often leave something to be desired in both aesthetics and comfort. That’s where the Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate step in, promising a visual upgrade and potentially a more secure and comfortable hold. I’ve always believed that the right grips can transform a firearm, turning it from a tool into an extension of your hand.
My journey to these grips began after a particularly bruising range session with my Super Blackhawk. The factory wood grips, while classic, were slick and unforgiving, especially when handling the .44 Magnum’s recoil. I was looking for something that offered better purchase, improved aesthetics, and wouldn’t break the bank.
Upon unboxing, the Black Laminate grips presented a sleek and modern alternative to the traditional wood. They felt solid and well-made, certainly more substantial than I anticipated for the price. The black laminate material offered a smooth, yet grippy texture, and the square butt profile looked aggressive and purposeful.
Compared to Hogue rubber grips and Altamont wood grips, these Ruger grips seemed to strike a good balance between functionality and aesthetics. I chose these over the Hogue because I didn’t want the overly utilitarian look, and I preferred the laminate material over standard wood for its durability and resistance to moisture. Initial impressions were positive; these grips seemed like a significant upgrade and a step in the right direction. I was eager to see how they performed on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test of the Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate was at my local outdoor range. I ran through several cylinders of both standard .44 Special and .44 Magnum loads to assess the grip’s performance under different recoil conditions. The improved grip was immediately noticeable.
The laminate material offered a secure hold, even with sweaty hands, and the square butt profile provided a solid anchor against recoil. I noticed a reduction in muzzle flip compared to the factory grips. I was surprised at how well the grips absorbed the recoil, providing a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate have proven to be durable and reliable. There are no signs of wear and tear despite being exposed to various conditions, including moderate rain and dust. The laminate material cleans easily with a damp cloth, requiring minimal maintenance.
Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket grips, these Black Laminate grips have exceeded my expectations. They outperform the slick factory grips in terms of recoil management and grip security. They also hold up better than some cheaper rubber grips I’ve used in the past that tend to degrade over time.
Breaking Down the Features of Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate
Specifications
- Fits: Specifically designed for the Super Blackhawk® Hunter, .44 Mag, ensuring a perfect fit on these models. This compatibility is crucial for optimal performance and safety.
- Material: Constructed from durable black laminate wood, which offers a blend of aesthetics and resilience. Laminate is more resistant to warping and cracking than solid wood.
- Grip Style: Features a square butt profile, providing a larger gripping surface for improved recoil control. The square butt design also offers a more aggressive and modern look.
- Price: Priced at $40.99, these grips offer an affordable upgrade to the factory grips. This price point makes them accessible to a wide range of Super Blackhawk owners.
Performance & Functionality
The Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate significantly improve the shooter’s control over the revolver, particularly when firing magnum loads. The enhanced grip reduces muzzle flip and felt recoil, leading to faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy. These grips meet and exceed expectations for a cost-effective grip upgrade.
A minor weakness could be that the smooth laminate, while offering a good grip, might not be as aggressively textured as some specialized competition grips. However, this smoothness makes them more comfortable for extended carry and use.
Design & Ergonomics
The black laminate offers a sleek and modern aesthetic that complements the Super Blackhawk’s rugged design. The square butt profile fills the hand nicely, providing a secure and comfortable grip for most hand sizes. There isn’t a significant learning curve; installation is straightforward.
The weight is comparable to the factory wood grips, so there is no significant change to the overall balance of the firearm. These grips feel substantial and well-made.
Durability & Maintenance
The laminate construction ensures the grips will withstand years of use, even under harsh conditions. Unlike some rubber grips that can become sticky or degrade over time, these laminate grips maintain their integrity. Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime.
The laminate material is also resistant to solvents and oils, making cleaning easier after shooting sessions. These grips should last for the lifetime of the revolver with proper care.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate are a standalone upgrade, but they can be complemented with other accessories. While these grips don’t require additional accessories for basic functionality, they pair well with a quality holster designed for revolvers with square butt grips. The grips are compatible with various after-market grip screws, allowing users to further customize the appearance of their revolver. Other grips, such as a custom stippled grip, would not be possible as these grips are not designed to be modified.
Pros and Cons of Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate
Pros
- Provides significantly improved grip and recoil control compared to factory grips.
- Durable laminate construction ensures long-lasting performance, even in harsh conditions.
- Sleek black laminate offers a modern aesthetic upgrade to the Super Blackhawk.
- Affordable price point makes these grips an accessible upgrade for most shooters.
- Easy to install with basic tools, requiring no gunsmithing.
Cons
- The smooth laminate, while grippy, may not offer the aggressive texture desired by some competitive shooters.
- Limited color and texture options are available compared to aftermarket grip manufacturers.
Who Should Buy Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate?
The Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate are perfect for hunters and recreational shooters seeking improved grip and recoil control on their Super Blackhawk revolvers. They are especially beneficial for those who find the factory wood grips too slick or uncomfortable. Anyone looking for a simple, affordable aesthetic upgrade will also appreciate these grips.
Those who prioritize an extremely aggressive grip texture for competition or extreme shooting conditions might want to explore other options. If you require a highly customized grip with specific ergonomic features or unique materials, these Ruger grips might not fully meet your needs. No must-have accessories or modifications exist, though a holster designed for a square butt revolver is recommended for concealed carry.
Conclusion on Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate
The Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips (Square) – Black Laminate are a fantastic upgrade for any Super Blackhawk owner looking to enhance their revolver’s grip and aesthetics without breaking the bank. At $40.99, the price is more than justified given the improved recoil control, enhanced grip, and durable laminate construction. I would absolutely recommend these grips to anyone seeking a cost-effective and reliable upgrade for their Super Blackhawk.
These grips offer a significant improvement over the factory grips, making shooting magnum loads more comfortable and manageable. The sleek black laminate adds a touch of modern style to the classic revolver. If you’re looking for a simple and effective way to improve your Super Blackhawk’s performance and appearance, these grips are an excellent choice. Upgrade your Super Blackhawk today and experience the difference a good set of grips can make!