Was the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo 80800 the Right Choice?
As an equipment specialist with over a decade of experience across diverse environments, I’m always on the lookout for components that can enhance a firearm’s utility and feel. My Ruger GP100 is a workhorse, a reliable platform that I trust in various situations, from the workshop bench where I might be working on other projects to casual range days. However, the factory grips, while functional, always felt a bit… utilitarian. They lacked a certain tactile appeal and didn’t quite fill the hand as I envisioned for optimal control and comfort during extended use. This is precisely what led me to seek out an upgrade, specifically a grip that would offer a more refined experience without compromising on the ruggedness I expect from my gear.
My search ultimately led me to the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo 80800. The allure of a natural hardwood grip, especially one made from exotic Cocobolo, was strong. I’d handled Hogue products before and appreciated their commitment to quality craftsmanship, so the manufacturer was a known quantity. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of immediate appreciation for the material and the evident care in its shaping. It felt solid, substantial, and possessed a natural warmth that synthetic materials often lack. While I considered simpler rubber replacements, the aesthetic and potential tactile benefits of real wood, particularly this specific type, steered me away from those alternatives. The first reaction was a quiet satisfaction, a sense that I’d found a piece that might finally complete the puzzle of my GP100’s ergonomics.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo 80800 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing of this grip occurred in a familiar environment: my personal workshop. Here, I often use my revolvers for various tasks, from acting as a secure paperweight for blueprints to being cleaned and maintained after a trip to the range. The installation itself was straightforward, fitting snugly onto my Ruger GP100 without any forcing or modification required. I spent a good hour just holding the handgun, getting a feel for the contours of the new grip and how it settled into my palm.
The difference was immediately noticeable. The grip’s shape naturally encouraged a more consistent hand placement, and the Cocobolo material offered a pleasant, slightly textured surface that felt secure even without the aggressive checkering found on some grips. I took the firearm, now sporting its new attire, to the local indoor range for a more dynamic test. Firing offhand at various distances, I paid close attention to recoil management and overall comfort. Even with a steady diet of .357 Magnum loads, the grip absorbed and distributed recoil effectively, reducing the felt impact compared to the factory offering.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the subsequent months, this Cocobolo grip has become a permanent fixture on my GP100. It has accompanied me on numerous range sessions, enduring the dust and occasional light moisture of an outdoor range on cooler days. The grip has held up remarkably well. There are no visible cracks, no loosening of the material, and the finish remains largely unscathed despite being handled frequently and having the firearm stored in a padded case.
Maintenance has been minimal; a quick wipe-down with a soft cloth is usually sufficient to keep it clean. If it gets particularly grimy from handling, a slightly damp cloth and then a dry one restore its original sheen. Compared to the synthetic grips I’ve used in the past on other firearms, this wooden grip has demonstrated superior resilience to scratches and a more consistent feel. While it might not offer the same level of shock absorption as a high-end rubber grip for extreme magnum loads, its balance of aesthetics, comfort, and durability for general use is truly exceptional.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo 80800
Specifications
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo 80800 is crafted from Hardwood, specifically Cocobolo, a dense and visually striking tropical hardwood known for its rich brown tones and often dramatic grain patterns. This is not a flimsy plastic or basic rubber; it’s a premium natural material that brings a distinct character to the firearm. The grip is designed to fit Ruger GP100 Revolver and Ruger Super Redhawk models, ensuring a precise fit for these popular firearms.
The Brown color and Cocobolo finish are key aesthetic features, offering a warm, classic look that many shooters desire. Unlike mass-produced synthetic grips, each Cocobolo grip will have unique variations in its grain and color, making your firearm’s setup truly one-of-a-kind. The Hardwood material offers a firm yet comfortable purchase, and its density contributes to the overall solid feel of the handgun. This natural material choice immediately sets it apart from more common polymer or rubber grips.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function, enhancing the shooter’s grip and control, the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo 80800 performs admirably. The contoured shape of the grip is thoughtfully designed to fill the backstrap and side panels of the revolver’s frame, providing a more substantial and secure hold than many factory options. This improved purchase directly translates to better accuracy, as a stable shooting platform is fundamental to precise shot placement.
The key strength of this grip lies in its ergonomic design combined with the natural properties of Cocobolo. It offers a secure grip without being overly abrasive, and the inherent density of the wood helps to dampen felt recoil, making follow-up shots quicker and more manageable. Its main drawback, if one can call it that, is its suitability for extreme weather conditions. While it handles light moisture well, prolonged immersion or extremely humid environments might require more diligent care than a synthetic grip.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this grip is where its true elegance shines. Hogue has clearly put significant thought into shaping the Cocobolo wood to complement the lines of the Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk frames. The grip panels are precisely sculpted to match the curves of the firearm, offering a seamless transition from metal to wood. The finish is smooth to the touch but provides enough subtle texture to ensure a confident grip, even when hands are a little sweaty.
Ergonomically, it’s a significant upgrade for many users. It offers a more substantial feel in the hand, which can be particularly beneficial for those with larger hands or for shooting heavier recoiling cartridges. The natural grain of the Cocobolo not only looks stunning but also offers a slightly varied surface that aids in hand placement and stability. There’s no real learning curve; it feels natural from the moment you grasp it, making the transition from other grips virtually instantaneous.
Durability & Maintenance
Durability is a hallmark of well-finished hardwood. This Hogue grip, crafted from Cocobolo, is built to last. The wood is dense and resistant to cracking under normal use and stress. The finish applied by Hogue provides a protective layer that resists minor abrasions and the oils from your hands.
Maintaining the grip is refreshingly simple. Regular cleaning with a soft, dry cloth is often all that’s needed. For more thorough cleaning, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed by immediate drying to prevent any moisture from soaking into the wood. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, as they can degrade the finish over time. While it’s not designed to be disposable, its robust construction suggests a very long service life under typical usage patterns, far exceeding that of many polymer alternatives in terms of aesthetic longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo 80800 is primarily a replacement component, meaning it doesn’t come with a suite of accessories in the traditional sense. However, its inherent beauty lies in its material and finish. The unique grain patterns of the Cocobolo wood serve as its primary customization.
While Hogue offers this grip in various materials and styles for these revolvers, this specific Cocobolo version stands out for its natural beauty. It integrates seamlessly with the existing hardware of your Ruger GP100 or Super Redhawk, requiring only the factory grip screws to complete the installation. Its compatibility is limited to the specified Ruger models, meaning it’s not a universal fit but a precisely engineered part for those particular firearms.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo 80800
Pros
- Exquisite Material: Crafted from beautiful, dense Cocobolo hardwood, offering a unique and premium aesthetic.
- Superior Ergonomics: Thoughtfully contoured shape provides a more substantial and secure grip compared to standard factory grips.
- Enhanced Comfort: The natural feel and warm texture of the wood reduce perceived recoil and improve handling during extended shooting sessions.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality hardwood, ensuring longevity and resistance to wear under normal use.
- Unique Aesthetics: Each grip features distinct grain patterns, making your firearm visually distinctive.
Cons
- Price Point: The use of premium hardwood places this grip at a higher price than basic synthetic alternatives.
- Weather Sensitivity: While resilient, extreme or prolonged exposure to moisture might require more careful handling than synthetic grips.
- Limited Availability in Variants: Specific finishes or wood types might have limited stock or longer lead times due to the natural material sourcing.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo 80800?
This grip is ideally suited for owners of the Ruger GP100 or Super Redhawk who prioritize both aesthetics and enhanced shooting ergonomics. It’s for the shooter who appreciates the tactile and visual appeal of natural materials and wants to elevate the feel and handling of their handgun beyond standard factory specifications. If you spend considerable time at the range or simply enjoy the craftsmanship of a well-appointed firearm, this upgrade will likely be very satisfying.
Those who require absolute waterproofing or are frequently operating in extremely harsh, wet environments might consider a dedicated synthetic grip. Additionally, individuals on a very tight budget will find more economical options readily available. However, for those seeking a blend of beauty, comfort, and reliable performance, this grip is an excellent choice. A good quality gun cleaning kit and a soft microfiber cloth are recommended for maintaining its pristine appearance.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo 80800
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo 80800 is, in my professional opinion, an outstanding upgrade for owners of these venerable Ruger revolvers. It successfully marries form and function, delivering a significant improvement in both the tactile experience and the visual appeal of the firearm. The quality of the Cocobolo hardwood and the precision of Hogue’s manufacturing are evident from the moment you hold it.
Considering the price point of $85.99, the value proposition is strong for those who appreciate premium materials and craftsmanship. It transforms a reliable tool into a piece of functional art, enhancing its handling without compromising its core utility. I would absolutely recommend this grip to any GP100 or Super Redhawk owner looking to add a touch of class and a more comfortable, secure shooting experience to their handgun. It’s an investment in both performance and personal satisfaction.