What to Expect from the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove Checkered 80351
My quest for an improved grip on my Ruger GP100 led me to the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove Checkered 80351. As an experienced gear specialist with over a decade of hands-on use across diverse environments, I know the critical role a good grip plays in firearm control and comfort. My factory grips, while functional, always felt a bit generic, lacking the tactile feedback and ergonomic nuance I prefer for precise handling, especially during extended range sessions. I considered a few other aftermarket options, including some synthetic offerings that promised enhanced tackiness, but none quite captured the natural feel and aesthetic I was after. Receiving this Hogue grip brought an immediate sense of quality; the wood felt substantial and well-finished, hinting at a significant upgrade.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove Checkered 80351 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing occurred on a bright, dry afternoon at my local indoor range. The installation was straightforward, fitting snugly onto my Ruger GP100 with minimal fuss, a welcome change from some aftermarket grips that require significant persuasion. The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove Checkered 80351 immediately felt more substantial and natural in my hand than the stock grip. I fired approximately 100 rounds of .357 Magnum and .38 Special through the revolver during this first session.
The grip performed admirably in these controlled conditions, offering a noticeable improvement in recoil management due to the finger grooves aligning my hand more consistently. There were no surprises or unexpected quirks; the Pau Ferro wood offered a solid, non-slip surface even as my hands warmed up slightly. The checkering on the front strap and backstrap provided consistent purchase without being overly aggressive or abrasive.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the past several weeks, this Hogue grip has become a permanent fixture on my GP100. I’ve taken it to the range multiple times, including a longer session where I put over 150 rounds through it in a single outing. I’ve also carried the firearm in a range bag, exposing it to typical environmental conditions without issue.
So far, the grip shows no discernible signs of wear and tear. The Pau Ferro material has resisted scuffs and the checkering remains sharp and defined. Maintenance has been as simple as a quick wipe-down with a soft cloth after each range trip to remove any powder residue or dust. Compared to the rubber grips I’ve used in the past, which can degrade or become slick with repeated use, this wooden grip feels like it will offer far superior longevity. Its performance remains consistent, proving to be a reliable upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove Checkered 80351
Specifications
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove Checkered 80351 is designed specifically for Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk revolvers. It features a top finger groove design, which is crucial for consistent hand placement. The material is Pau Ferro wood, known for its durability and attractive grain.
This grip also boasts a fine checkered finish across its surface, enhancing tactile feedback and preventing slippage. The installation utilizes existing factory hardware, meaning no special tools are typically required beyond basic screwdriver capabilities. The Hogue brand is synonymous with quality firearm accessories, and this grip upholds that reputation.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of this grip is to provide a secure and comfortable interface between the shooter and the firearm, and it excels at this. The finger grooves are precisely molded, guiding the shooter’s fingers into an optimal position for recoil control and a consistent sight picture. The Pau Ferro wood offers a balanced feel – it’s firm yet provides a slight warmth and natural grip that synthetic materials often lack.
Its strength lies in the combination of natural material and thoughtful ergonomic design. The checkering is deep enough to provide positive traction without being abrasive on the hand during recoil. A minor drawback, if one were to nitpick, is that wood, by its nature, can be susceptible to extreme moisture damage over time, though the Pau Ferro is generally quite resilient. For its intended purpose, it meets and often exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove Checkered 80351 exhibits excellent build quality. The wood is smooth and polished where not checkered, with a pleasing natural finish that showcases the wood’s inherent beauty. The fitment to the Ruger frame is precise, with no noticeable gaps or looseness, which contributes to a solid, integrated feel.
Ergonomically, the finger grooves are the standout feature, promoting a high hand position that aids in managing the stout recoil of .357 Magnum loads. The overall profile of the grip fills the hand well, providing ample surface area for control without making the grip excessively large. This makes it suitable for a range of hand sizes, though individuals with exceptionally small hands might find the diameter a bit generous.
Durability & Maintenance
This Hogue grip is built for durability and longevity, especially when compared to softer rubber grips. The Pau Ferro wood is naturally dense and hard, offering good resistance to impacts and wear. Under normal range use and casual carry, I anticipate this grip lasting for many years, potentially outlasting the firearm itself.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple; a light application of a wood polish or a dedicated gun stock treatment can help maintain the finish and protect the wood. Cleaning is best done with a soft brush and a mild degreaser if needed, followed by a dry cloth. There are no complex parts to wear out or break, contributing to its robust nature. The only potential concern would be prolonged submersion in water or extreme, rapid temperature shifts that could cause the wood to expand or contract unevenly, though this is unlikely with typical handling.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove Checkered 80351 is designed to be a direct replacement for the factory grips and typically does not come with additional accessories. Its customization lies in its aesthetic appeal and ergonomic improvement rather than the addition of bolt-on features. However, this grip itself is available in various wood types and finishes, allowing shooters to personalize their firearm’s look.
It is designed to work seamlessly with the existing Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk platforms, meaning no specialized mounts or adapters are required. The checkered pattern offers a tactile customization, enhancing grip without needing to resort to grip tape or stippling.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove Checkered 80351
Pros
- Superior Ergonomics: The top finger groove design significantly improves grip consistency and comfort.
- Premium Material: Pau Ferro wood offers an attractive, durable, and natural-feeling grip surface.
- Enhanced Control: The fine checkered finish provides excellent traction, especially during recoil.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The natural wood grain and finish add a classic, refined look to the firearm.
- Direct Fitment: Designed for a precise fit on Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk models.
Cons
- Price Point: Can be more expensive than basic rubber or synthetic replacement grips.
- Wood Vulnerability: While durable, wood can be more susceptible to extreme environmental moisture than synthetic materials.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove Checkered 80351?
This grip is an ideal upgrade for any owner of a Ruger GP100 or Super Redhawk revolver who prioritizes a superior shooting experience. It’s perfect for individuals who appreciate the natural feel and classic aesthetics of wood, combined with modern ergonomic enhancements. Range shooters looking to improve accuracy and comfort during extended firing sessions will find significant benefits.
Those who should perhaps skip this grip are individuals who demand absolute imperviousness to extreme weather conditions or who prefer a softer, more forgiving grip material. If budget is a primary concern and a basic functional grip suffices, cheaper alternatives might be considered. For those who do opt for this grip, there are no essential must-have accessories, as it’s designed as a self-contained upgrade.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove Checkered 80351
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove Checkered 80351 is a truly excellent upgrade for Ruger revolver owners. It successfully blends natural, attractive materials with functional ergonomic design, offering a noticeable improvement in both handling and shootability. The $89.21 price point, while not the cheapest option available, is fully justified by the premium Pau Ferro wood, the precise finger groove molding, and the aggressive yet comfortable checkered finish. I would wholeheartedly recommend this grip to anyone looking to enhance their GP100 or Super Redhawk, especially those who appreciate the tactile feel and enduring quality of wood.