This is What Happened When I Used the Hogue Rem 870 12 GA OM Tamer PG & Frnd ODGrn 08115
My Remington 870 is a workhorse, a reliable companion through countless hours spent in the workshop, at the range, and occasionally, during more demanding field applications. Yet, the original furniture, while functional, lacked the ergonomic refinements that truly elevate a firearm’s handling. The stock felt utilitarian, and the forend offered a somewhat rudimentary grip, especially when my hands were less than pristine. I was looking for an upgrade that would enhance control, improve comfort during extended sessions, and frankly, give the old scattergun a much-needed modern aesthetic without sacrificing its rugged character. This search led me to the Hogue Rem 870 12 GA OM Tamer PG & Frnd ODGrn 08115.
I’d encountered Hogue products before in various contexts, always noting their signature OverMolded construction and the promise of improved grip and comfort. For the 870, this particular setup, with its Tamer pistol grip and forend in OD Green, seemed like a perfect fit for my needs. It promised a more secure hold and better recoil management, crucial for maintaining accuracy and comfort with 12-gauge loads. I considered a few other aftermarket stock options, some with more aggressive tactical styling, but the Hogue’s blend of traditional design with their proprietary rubber overmolding felt more aligned with my preference for practical, enduring enhancements. My initial impression upon unboxing was positive; the combination of the rigid internal structure and the soft, tactile rubber exterior felt substantial and well-made.
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to really put the Hogue Rem 870 12 GA OM Tamer PG & Frnd ODGrn 08115 through its paces was during a full afternoon at the local indoor range. Swapping out the old furniture for the new Hogue components was straightforward, a testament to their design for a precise drop-in fit. The original Remington 870 is a robust platform, and the new stock and forend seemed to complement its inherent sturdiness perfectly.
The conditions were typical for an indoor range: consistent lighting, a relatively controlled temperature, and the usual ambient scent of gunpowder. I started with standard field loads, then moved onto some heavier buckshot to really test the recoil absorption claims. The initial feel of the pistol grip was immediately more substantial and secure than the factory grip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and hundreds of rounds through my Remington 870 with the Hogue Tamer PG & Frnd installed, its performance has remained consistently excellent. The OD Green finish has shown no signs of fading or significant wear, even after being stored in a moderately humid gun cabinet and transported in various conditions. The OverMolded rubber remains tacky and grippy, resisting any degradation or loosening from repeated handling and recoil.
Cleaning is remarkably simple; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and grime, and the rubber doesn’t seem to attract and hold onto debris as much as some other textured plastics. Compared to the factory plastic components it replaced, which sometimes felt a bit slick after a few hours of shooting, this Hogue setup offers a noticeable advantage in consistent handling. I haven’t encountered any cracks, stiffness, or performance drops, reinforcing the impression of a durable and well-engineered product.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Rem 870 12 GA OM Tamer PG & Frnd ODGrn 08115
Specifications
The Hogue Rem 870 12 GA OM Tamer PG & Frnd ODGrn 08115 is designed specifically for the Remington Model 870 12 Gauge shotgun. Its construction features a super-tough, fiberglass reinforced polymer skeleton, which provides a rigid internal foundation for stability and accuracy. This skeleton is then OverMolded with a soft, durable synthetic rubber that forms the exterior grip surfaces.
The result is a stock and forend assembly that offers a superior feel and handling compared to traditional wood or basic polymer options. The pistol grip portion is ergonomically shaped with ambidextrous palm swells, ensuring a comfortable and secure hold for both right and left-handed shooters. The forend is also designed with textured rubber for optimal grip, which is crucial during rapid fire or when handling the shotgun under stress.
The product comes in an Olive Drab (OD) Green color, offering a distinct aesthetic that is both functional and visually appealing in outdoor or tactical settings. It’s important to note that this is a replacement part, and the quantity provided is one stock and one forend unit. The materials used—synthetic rubber and reinforced polymer—contribute to its durability and weatherproof nature.
Performance & Functionality
The core function of the Hogue Rem 870 12 GA OM Tamer PG & Frnd ODGrn 08115 is to improve the handling and shooting experience of a Remington 870 shotgun, and it excels at this. The primary advantage is the enhanced grip provided by the OverMolded rubber. This is especially noticeable when shooting heavier loads; the rubber absorbs vibrations and provides a non-slip surface, allowing for a more controlled mount and follow-up shots.
The pistol grip’s ergonomic design and palm swells really make a difference in reducing shooter fatigue. I found that I could maintain a more consistent grip for longer periods without my hand cramping, which directly translates to better accuracy. The forend’s textured grip is equally effective, providing a secure purchase even when my hands were slightly damp from exertion.
One of the standout functional benefits is the improved control during recoil. Hogue advertises this as the “Tamer” grip, and it lives up to the name. The combination of the rubber’s shock-absorbing qualities and the ergonomic shape helps to mitigate the felt recoil, making shooting the 12-gauge 870 a more pleasant experience, especially with magnum loads. This isn’t just about comfort; it’s about maintaining sight alignment and control for subsequent shots.
Design & Ergonomics
From a design perspective, the Hogue Rem 870 12 GA OM Tamer PG & Frnd ODGrn 08115 strikes a great balance between modern functionality and classic aesthetics. The OD Green color is understated yet distinctive, fitting well with the utilitarian nature of a Remington 870. The OverMolding process is clearly the star here, creating a seamless bond between the rigid internal skeleton and the soft rubber exterior.
The ergonomics are where this product truly shines. The pistol grip feels substantially more comfortable and secure than many standard shotgun grips. The palm swells fill the hand nicely, providing a natural point of contact that promotes proper trigger finger placement and a firm hold. This is particularly beneficial for shooters with smaller hands or those who find traditional stocks less accommodating.
The forend is equally well-designed, featuring a textured pattern that offers positive grip without being overly abrasive. It allows for a confident hand placement, whether you’re cycling the action quickly or simply holding the shotgun ready. The overall build quality feels robust; there are no loose parts or rattles, and the fit onto the Remington 870 receiver and magazine tube is precise and snug.
Durability & Maintenance
In terms of durability, the Hogue OverMolded construction is designed for longevity. The synthetic rubber is resistant to common solvents and oils, and the fiberglass skeleton provides an internal rigidity that prevents flexing or cracking under stress. After months of use, I have observed no signs of premature wear, such as the rubber peeling away from the polymer insert or the texture becoming smooth and worn down.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe with a damp cloth or a mild cleaner is usually all that’s needed to keep the surfaces clean and grippy. Unlike some porous materials that can absorb grime and oils, the Hogue rubber is non-porous and easy to sanitize. This makes it ideal for use in environments where cleanliness is important, or when the firearm might be exposed to dirt and debris.
There are no obvious failure points that stand out. The design is straightforward, with no complex mechanisms in the stock or forend themselves. The potential for damage would likely come from extreme impact rather than regular use, and even then, the robust construction suggests a high tolerance for abuse.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Rem 870 12 GA OM Tamer PG & Frnd ODGrn 08115 is primarily a replacement part, so it doesn’t come with a wide array of additional accessories. However, its design is optimized for the Remington 870 platform, meaning it seamlessly integrates with the existing firearm’s components like the action bars and receiver.
The primary “customization” aspect is the selection of color and grip type offered by Hogue. This particular model features the Tamer pistol grip and a standard forend, but Hogue often offers variations with different grip styles or even adjustable stocks for other firearm platforms. For the Remington 870, the focus is on the tactile and ergonomic enhancement.
It’s worth noting that this setup is designed to work with standard Remington 870 parts. This means that any accessories designed to attach to the shotgun itself, such as sling mounts or accessory rails (if the 870 model supports them), will continue to function as intended. The OD Green finish itself is a form of aesthetic customization, offering a departure from standard black or wood furniture.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Rem 870 12 GA OM Tamer PG & Frnd ODGrn 08115
Pros
- Superior Grip and Control: The OverMolded rubber provides exceptional grip, even with wet or gloved hands.
- Enhanced Recoil Management: The “Tamer” pistol grip effectively reduces felt recoil, making shooting more comfortable.
- Ergonomic Design: Ambidextrous palm swells on the pistol grip offer a comfortable and secure fit for a wide range of users.
- Durable Construction: The combination of fiberglass skeleton and synthetic rubber ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to wear.
- Weatherproof and Easy to Clean: The material composition makes it resistant to the elements and simple to maintain.
- Precise Drop-in Fit: Designed for the Remington 870, it offers a snug and secure installation without modification.
Cons
- Limited Color Options: While OD Green is attractive, fewer color choices may be available compared to some competitors.
- No Integrated Recoil Pad: While the grip itself helps, it lacks a dedicated recoil-absorbing butt pad (this is typically part of the stock assembly, not the grip/forend set).
- Aesthetic Preference: The tactical look may not appeal to those seeking traditional wood furniture.
Who Should Buy Hogue Rem 870 12 GA OM Tamer PG & Frnd ODGrn 08115?
This Hogue Rem 870 12 GA OM Tamer PG & Frnd ODGrn 08115 is an excellent choice for any owner of a Remington 870 12 Gauge shotgun who prioritizes enhanced handling and comfort. It’s particularly well-suited for shooters who frequently engage in dynamic shooting activities, such as defensive shotgun practice, competition shooting, or even general range use where managing recoil is paramount. The ambidextrous design makes it ideal for both right and left-handed shooters, and those with smaller hands will appreciate the fuller, more secure grip.
Anyone looking to upgrade from standard factory furniture for improved control and reduced shooter fatigue will find this set a significant improvement. It’s also a solid choice for those operating in varying weather conditions where a reliable, non-slip grip is essential. If you’re looking for a more tactical or modern aesthetic for your 870, the OD Green finish adds a functional visual appeal.
Those who should perhaps consider alternatives are individuals who are strictly looking for traditional wood furniture for their Remington 870, or those who require a full stock assembly with an integrated, heavy-duty recoil pad as a primary feature. While the grip assists with recoil, a complete stock with a specialized butt pad might be preferred for extremely heavy loads or very sensitive shooters.
Conclusion on Hogue Rem 870 12 GA OM Tamer PG & Frnd ODGrn 08115
The Hogue Rem 870 12 GA OM Tamer PG & Frnd ODGrn 08115 represents a significant and worthwhile upgrade for any Remington 870 12 Gauge owner. Its blend of robust construction, ergonomic design, and the superior grip offered by the OverMolded rubber is a testament to Hogue’s expertise in firearm accessories. The enhanced control and recoil mitigation it provides translate directly into a more comfortable and effective shooting experience, particularly when dealing with the challenges of 12-gauge ammunition.
Considering its price point and the substantial improvement in handling and durability it offers, the value proposition is very strong. It’s not just a cosmetic change; it’s a functional enhancement that positively impacts how the shotgun feels and performs. I would absolutely recommend this product to fellow Remington 870 owners seeking to elevate their firearm’s usability. If you’re looking for a practical, reliable, and comfortable upgrade that pays dividends in handling and control, this Hogue set is an easy choice to make.