How I Used the Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730 and What I Found
For any firearm enthusiast, especially those who regularly put rounds downrange or rely on their shotgun for any task, managing recoil is a significant aspect of both comfort and control. My personal journey with firearms has spanned over a decade, taking me from dusty workshop benches to rugged field environments. It was during a particularly enthusiastic skeet shooting session, coupled with a bit too much time spent leaning into my Remington 870, that the need for enhanced recoil mitigation became glaringly obvious. The familiar jolt, while manageable, was starting to detract from sustained shooting sessions and the overall enjoyment. This realization prompted a search for a practical, effective, and aesthetically pleasing solution.
My trusty Remington 870, a workhorse that has seen everything from trap shooting to waterfowl hunts, was fitted with its original wooden stock. While beautiful and classic, these older wooden stocks, particularly on heavier gauges like a 12-gauge, can impart a substantial amount of felt recoil. I needed something that wouldn’t just dull the impact but also integrate seamlessly with the existing wood furniture. After a quick look at various options, including some custom-fitted pads and generic slip-ons, the Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730 caught my eye. Its promise of a pre-sized, easy-to-install solution with Hogue’s reputation for quality gear was compelling.
Upon receiving the pad, my initial impression was one of solid construction. The Hogue brand has a history of producing durable firearm accessories, and this recoil pad felt no different. The elastomer cushioning seemed substantial, and the rigid polymer base plate appeared well-molded. It felt like a significant upgrade over the worn rubber pad I had been considering. The black finish offered a classic, understated look that I hoped would complement the walnut stock of my shotgun. This offered a promising blend of function and form, which is always a sweet spot for me.
Before committing to the Hogue, I briefly considered a more aggressive, custom-molded pad. However, the cost and lead time for such a bespoke solution seemed excessive for my needs. I also looked at universal slip-on pads, but their often-clunky appearance and potential for slippage were deterrents. The Hogue’s pre-sized design, specifically tailored for Remington’s popular 870, 11-87, and 1100 models, offered a much more appealing DIY-friendly approach. My immediate reaction was one of quiet satisfaction; this felt like the right blend of convenience and effective design for my situation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730 to the Test
First Use Experience
My primary testing ground for this recoil pad was my local shooting range, specifically during extended clay pigeon sessions and some static target practice with my Remington 870 12-gauge. The installation process itself was straightforward, fitting snugly onto the existing wood stock without requiring any specialized tools or extensive fitting. I attached it to the stock of my 870, and it integrated perfectly without any gaps or unsightly overlaps. The difference was immediately noticeable even before I fired a shot, just by shouldering the firearm.
During a full afternoon of shooting, involving over 100 rounds of 12-gauge ammunition, the performance was excellent. The cushioning effect of the elastomer was palpable, significantly softening the perceived recoil with each shot. This translated into a much more comfortable shooting experience, allowing me to focus on my technique and enjoy the process without anticipating the next jolt. Even after numerous rounds, there was no increase in felt recoil, which indicated consistent performance.
The ease of use was a major plus. There was no learning curve involved; it simply mounted and worked as intended. The tactile feel of the elastomer was firm enough to provide a secure shoulder mount, yet soft enough to absorb the shock effectively. My only minor surprise was how cleanly the edges of the pad blended once installed; it didn’t look like an aftermarket addition but rather a well-integrated part of the shotgun. This initial experience left me feeling confident in its ability to enhance my shooting sessions.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the course of several months, the Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad has become a permanent fixture on my Remington 870. It has accompanied me on multiple range days, a few waterfowl hunting trips where multiple shots are often taken in succession, and even spent some time leaning against the workbench during various firearm maintenance tasks. Through all this, it has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of degradation or performance loss.
Durability has been impressive. Despite being exposed to varying weather conditions – from damp morning dew on a duck blind to the dry heat of a summer range day – the elastomer remains supple and the polymer base shows no signs of cracking or warping. There are no visible scuffs or tears, even from the occasional inadvertent bump against a tree or range bench. The pad has maintained its shape and its recoil-absorbing properties throughout this extended use.
Maintenance has been minimal, which is a significant benefit. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep it clean, and it doesn’t retain dirt or debris easily. Compared to some older, more basic rubber pads I’ve used in the past, which could become stiff or tacky over time, this Hogue pad feels like it’s built to last. It truly performs as a high-quality component, outperforming generic alternatives and holding its own against more expensive, specialized options.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730
Specifications
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730 is designed with specific materials and dimensions to offer optimal performance. It features Hogue’s exclusive recoil reducing, cushioned elastomer bonded to a super rigid polymer alloy base plate. This construction is key to its effectiveness in absorbing recoil. The pad is pre-sized to fit most rifles and shotguns within .050″, specifically targeting models like the Remington 870, 11-87, and 1100 with wood stocks.
The choice of black color is both practical and aesthetic, offering a classic look that complements most firearm finishes. The elastomer material is chosen for its shock-absorbing qualities, while the polymer alloy base plate provides a stable, non-slip platform that is also durable. Unlike some older pads, this unit grinds very cleanly and easily, allowing for a smooth blend with either wood or synthetic stocks. Crucially, there are no steel inserts to interfere with grinding or installation.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function – recoil reduction – the Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad performs exceptionally well. The combination of the cushioned elastomer and rigid base plate effectively dissipates the energy from each shot. This results in a noticeably softer feel when shouldering the firearm, which is particularly important for shotguns like the Remington 870 and its variants that can generate significant felt recoil.
The strength of this recoil pad lies in its balanced approach to comfort and ease of installation. It provides substantial recoil reduction without being overly soft or mushy, which could otherwise affect the shooter’s connection to the firearm. A minor weakness, though not a performance flaw, is that it’s pre-sized; while it fits “most” within a tolerance, some highly specific stock shapes might require minor additional fitting. However, for the intended Remington models, it meets and often exceeds expectations for a product in its price range.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this Hogue recoil pad is focused on both functionality and a clean aesthetic. The build quality is evident in the precise molding of the elastomer to the polymer base, ensuring a durable bond. The finish is a matte black, which is non-reflective and resists fingerprints or smudges well.
From an ergonomic standpoint, the pad offers a comfortable and secure contact point against the shoulder. It’s not overly grippy to the point of snagging on clothing, but it provides enough friction to prevent the stock from sliding during the recoil impulse. The usability is top-notch; installation is simple, and the pad feels like a natural extension of the stock once attached. There’s no real learning curve, making it accessible for users of all experience levels.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of the Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad is a significant selling point. Under typical use for shotgun owners – be it sport shooting, hunting, or general practice – this pad is designed for longevity. The materials are resistant to common environmental factors like UV exposure, temperature fluctuations, and moisture.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A damp cloth is usually sufficient to wipe away dust, dirt, or powder residue. The elastomer material does not easily absorb grime, making cleaning quick and efficient. There are no specific maintenance tips beyond basic cleaning, and I haven’t encountered any obvious failure points or areas of concern during my extended use. It feels like a robust component designed for repeated firing cycles.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad is primarily a standalone component, and as such, it does not typically come with a significant array of accessories. Its main feature is its pre-sized design, meaning the customization is in its fit rather than being a blank canvas. However, the description notes that both the rubber and base plate grind very cleanly and easily, implying that minor adjustments or shaping can be done by the end-user if absolutely necessary for a perfect fit on a particular stock.
There are no inherent customization options in terms of color or texture beyond the standard black. However, its compatibility with Remington 870, 11-87, and 1100 models with wood stocks is its key point of integration. For those seeking color variations or different materials, alternative Hogue models or other brands would need to be explored.
Pros and Cons of Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730
Pros
- Effective Recoil Reduction: Significantly softens felt recoil, enhancing shooting comfort and control.
- Easy Installation: Pre-sized design makes DIY fitting straightforward for compatible Remington models.
- Durable Construction: Utilizes robust elastomer and rigid polymer for long-lasting performance.
- Clean Aesthetics: Black finish and flush-fitting design integrate well with wood or synthetic stocks.
- Low Maintenance: Simple to clean and requires no special care.
Cons
- Pre-sized Fit: While designed for common models, exact fit might vary slightly on less common stock variations.
- Limited Customization: Available in one primary color and material combination.
Who Should Buy Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730?
This recoil pad is ideally suited for owners of Remington 870, 11-87, or 1100 shotguns, particularly those equipped with wood stocks. If you find yourself experiencing significant felt recoil during shooting sessions, whether for sport, hunting, or practice, this pad will offer a noticeable improvement in comfort and shooting endurance. It’s also a great choice for individuals who prefer an easy, no-fuss installation process without needing specialized gunsmithing skills.
Anyone looking for a reliable, durable, and aesthetically pleasing way to mitigate recoil on their specific Remington shotgun should consider this option. Those who require a custom-fitted pad for an unusual stock shape or who desire a wider range of material and color options might need to look elsewhere. For those using their shotguns frequently, especially with heavier loads, this recoil pad is a smart investment in comfort and performance.
Conclusion on Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730
The Hogue EZG Pre-sized recoil pad Rem. 870/11-87/1100 wood Stk. Black 70730 is a highly effective and practical upgrade for owners of compatible Remington shotguns. Its primary strength lies in its ability to significantly reduce felt recoil, transforming a potentially punishing shooting experience into one that is far more comfortable and enjoyable. The ease of installation, coupled with its durable construction and clean, integrated look, makes it an excellent value for its price point.
For anyone seeking to enhance their shooting experience with a Remington 870, 11-87, or 1100 fitted with a wood stock, I wholeheartedly recommend this recoil pad. It delivers on its promises of comfort, durability, and simple installation. It’s a straightforward solution that provides tangible benefits, making it a worthwhile addition for both seasoned shooters and those new to the platform who want to ensure their firearms are as comfortable to shoot as they are effective. This Hogue recoil pad is a testament to their commitment to quality firearm accessories.