This is What Happened When I Used the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80645
For years, my Ruger GP100 has been a steadfast companion, a .357 Magnum workhorse that’s seen its fair share of range days and wilderness explorations. However, the factory grip, while functional, always left something to be desired in terms of natural pointability and sustained comfort during extended shooting sessions. My hands, accustomed to a variety of textures and shapes from years of work across different environments, felt the standard grip was just shy of optimal. This led me to seek out a replacement, something that would enhance both control and aesthetics. After some research, the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80645 caught my eye.
The allure of a premium wood grip, combined with Hogue’s reputation for quality, was compelling. My goal was a grip that offered superior purchase, particularly under recoil, and a more natural indexing for my hand. The advertised “Kingwood” finish and the “Big Butt” design suggested a substantial and well-contoured grip, precisely what I was looking for. I had considered other aftermarket grips, including some synthetic options that promised enhanced ergonomics, but none offered the unique aesthetic and tactile appeal of this Hogue offering. My initial impression upon receiving the grip was one of immediate appreciation for its solid feel and the rich, deep tones of the Kingwood.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80645 to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing began on a brisk Saturday morning at my local outdoor range. The primary objective was to assess how this new grip affected my shooting experience with my Ruger GP100. I fitted the grip onto the revolver, and it was immediately apparent that this was a significant upgrade from the factory rubber. The fit was snug and secure, with no discernible wobble or looseness, which is crucial for reliable performance.
I spent several hours at the range, firing a variety of .38 Special and .357 Magnum loads. The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80645 performed exceptionally well in managing recoil. The substantial “Big Butt” design allowed my palm to rest more fully, distributing the impact more evenly and reducing the tendency for the front sight to climb excessively. The pronounced finger grooves, while initially feeling slightly aggressive, actually provided a very secure index for my fingers, promoting a consistent grip with each draw. Even after firing over 100 rounds, my hand fatigue was noticeably less than with the original grip.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the following weeks, this Hogue grip became a permanent fixture on my GP100. I incorporated it into my regular range routine and even carried it during a few longer walks in the woods, where reliable handgun handling is paramount. The Kingwood finish, while beautiful, has proven surprisingly resilient. It has held up to occasional accidental brushes against rocks and dense foliage without showing any significant scratches or chips.
The checkered texture remains aggressive enough to provide a secure hold, even when my hands were slightly damp from sweat or a light drizzle. I haven’t experienced any issues with the grip loosening or degrading over time, which speaks volumes about its construction and the quality of the hardware used for installation. Compared to some other aftermarket grips I’ve used in the past, which have sometimes developed a sticky feel or a tendency to warp under temperature changes, this Hogue grip has remained consistently firm and comfortable. Cleaning is also straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove dust and grime.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80645
Specifications
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80645 is specifically designed for the Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk revolvers. It features a Kingwood finish, a dense and aesthetically pleasing hardwood known for its deep color and attractive grain patterns. The grip boasts finger grooves that are carefully sculpted to align naturally with the shooter’s fingers, enhancing control. Its defining characteristic is the “Big Butt” design, which provides a fuller palm swell and a larger base, offering superior support and recoil mitigation. The grip surface is checkered, providing aggressive texturing for a secure hold even in adverse conditions.
These specifications translate directly into tangible benefits for the shooter. The Kingwood material not only offers a premium look but also feels solid and durable in hand. The precisely molded finger grooves ensure consistent hand placement, which is vital for accurate shooting. The “Big Butt” contour is particularly effective for larger hands or for those who experience significant recoil, as it distributes pressure across a wider area of the palm. The checkered panels are deep and well-defined, ensuring that the grip doesn’t slip, even under vigorous firing.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of any handgun grip is to facilitate a secure and controlled hold, and this Hogue grip excels in that regard. Its main job is to interface with the shooter’s hand to manage recoil and improve accuracy, and it performs this task admirably. The combination of the ergonomic shape and aggressive texturing provides an exceptional level of control, even when firing potent .357 Magnum rounds.
The most significant strength of this grip is its ability to tame perceived recoil. The fuller palm swell of the “Big Butt” design, coupled with the supportive finger grooves, allows the shooter to maintain a firm grip without excessive tension, leading to more accurate follow-up shots. The checkered surfaces offer a tenacious grip that inspires confidence, reducing the likelihood of the pistol shifting in the hand. Its functionality is directly tied to its ability to provide a natural and secure platform for the shooter’s hand.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80645 is a clear step up from many standard grips. The Kingwood material gives it a classic, refined look that stands out from typical polymer or rubber options. The finish is smooth yet provides enough grip on its own, but the addition of the checkered panels significantly enhances tactile feedback.
Ergonomically, the grip is designed for comfort and control. The finger grooves are well-positioned for a standard shooting grip, promoting consistent finger alignment. The substantial “Big Butt” portion of the grip fills the palm nicely, offering excellent support and preventing the common issue of the grip digging into the webbing between the thumb and index finger under recoil. This substantial design contributes to a more stable shooting platform, making the revolver feel more like an extension of the shooter’s hand.
Durability & Maintenance
Hogue’s reputation for producing durable products holds true with this Kingwood grip. The Kingwood itself is a hard, dense wood that is naturally resistant to wear and tear. Even after consistent use, I haven’t observed any signs of cracking, splitting, or excessive wear on the wood. The checkered panels remain sharp and effective, showing no signs of “rounding off” or becoming slick.
Maintenance is minimal, which is a significant advantage. For routine cleaning, a soft brush and a slightly damp cloth are sufficient to remove dust and any residue. For deeper cleaning, a mild wood cleaner can be used, followed by a light application of a wood conditioner to maintain the luster of the Kingwood. There are no complex parts or mechanisms to worry about; it’s a robust, single-piece grip that is designed to last.
Accessories and Customization Options
This specific Hogue grip is designed as a direct replacement for the factory grip on Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk revolvers. Therefore, it doesn’t typically come with separate accessories in the way some firearm components might. The primary “customization” or enhancement is the grip itself, offering a significant aesthetic and functional upgrade over standard options.
The Kingwood material and the checkered pattern are the key defining aesthetic features here. While Hogue does offer other grip styles and materials, this particular model focuses on delivering a premium wood experience. It’s designed to fit specific Ruger models, meaning compatibility is limited to those revolvers that accept this grip frame. No additional mounting hardware or tools are typically included, as it’s designed to use the existing grip frame hardware of the compatible firearms.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80645
Pros
- Exceptional Recoil Management: The “Big Butt” design and full palm swell significantly reduce felt recoil, especially with .357 Magnum loads.
- Superior Grip Security: The aggressive checkering and well-defined finger grooves ensure a steadfast hold, even with sweaty or wet hands.
- Premium Aesthetics: The Kingwood finish provides a beautiful, classic look that elevates the appearance of the firearm.
- Enhanced Pointability: The ergonomic design promotes a more natural and consistent grip, improving instinctive aiming.
- Durable Construction: Made from dense Kingwood and built to Hogue’s high standards, this grip is built for longevity.
Cons
- Price Point: This is a premium grip, and its price reflects the quality of materials and craftsmanship, making it more expensive than basic synthetic alternatives.
- Bulkier Profile: The “Big Butt” design, while excellent for recoil, may be too large for shooters with very small hands or those prioritizing a concealed carry profile.
- Limited Compatibility: This grip is specifically for Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk models, meaning it won’t fit other revolvers.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80645?
This grip is an ideal choice for experienced Ruger GP100 or Super Redhawk owners who are looking to enhance both the performance and the aesthetics of their revolver. Shooters who frequently fire full-power .357 Magnum ammunition will greatly benefit from the improved recoil management and enhanced control. It is particularly well-suited for individuals with medium to large hands who find standard grips less substantial or comfortable during extended shooting sessions. Enthusiasts who appreciate the tactile feel and visual appeal of fine hardwoods will also find this grip to be a superb upgrade.
However, individuals with very small hands, or those who prioritize a slim profile for deep concealed carry, might find the “Big Butt” design to be too bulky. Shooters on a very tight budget, or those who prefer the tactile properties of rubber grips for extreme recoil dampening, might consider more conventional options. For this firearm, a high-quality leather holster that accommodates the potentially increased grip dimensions would be a worthwhile complementary purchase.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80645
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80645 is, without question, a premium upgrade that delivers on its promises of enhanced performance and striking aesthetics. Its ability to tame recoil, provide a secure grip, and improve the overall handling of the Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk platforms is substantial. The beautiful Kingwood finish and the thoughtful ergonomic design, especially the “Big Butt” contour and aggressive checkering, transform the feel and usability of these already excellent firearms.
Considering the price, it represents a significant investment, but for those who value the combination of exquisite craftsmanship, superior ergonomics, and improved shooting dynamics, the value proposition is clear. I wholeheartedly recommend this grip to any Ruger GP100 or Super Redhawk owner seeking to elevate their shooting experience, particularly if they value both form and function. It’s a testament to Hogue’s dedication to quality and a worthwhile addition for any serious revolver enthusiast.