Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80845 Review

The Truth About Using the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80845

For years, I’ve relied on the familiar feel of a well-made firearm grip. When it came time to upgrade the stock furniture on my Ruger GP100, specifically seeking enhanced ergonomics and a touch of aesthetic refinement, my search naturally led me to the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80845. This particular model promised a substantial improvement over the factory offering, aiming to blend form with function for extended range sessions and general handling. My previous grip, while functional, lacked the contouring I desired for a more secure hold, especially during rapid fire. I was also curious to see if the unique material and design features would translate into tangible benefits. Initial impressions upon unboxing were overwhelmingly positive; the Coco Bolo wood exuded a warmth and natural beauty rarely seen in firearm accessories, and the machining of the finger grooves and checkering felt precise and purposeful. While I briefly considered a more utilitarian rubber grip from another manufacturer for pure practicality, the allure of this Hogue’s blend of natural materials and refined ergonomics ultimately won out. This felt less like a mere component replacement and more like an enhancement to the firearm’s soul.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80845 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds for this Hogue grip were primarily at my local indoor range and then on an outdoor range during a brisk autumn afternoon. The grip offered an immediate and noticeable improvement in how the GP100 settled into my hand, providing a more substantial and stable platform. The finger grooves, a key feature, aligned perfectly with my hand’s natural curvature, reducing the tendency for my shooting hand to creep during recoil. Even after a few magazines through the revolver, the grip remained comfortable, without any of the hot spots or slippage I’d sometimes experience with less sculpted grips.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and countless rounds fired, this Hogue grip has proven its mettle. It continues to provide a secure and comfortable hold, even during extended shooting sessions where fatigue might normally set in. The Coco Bolo material has held up exceptionally well, showing only minor, almost imperceptible signs of wear from regular handling. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a slightly damp cloth and a mild wood cleaner is usually all that’s needed to maintain its luster. Compared to the factory polymer grips or even some less expensive aftermarket wood grips I’ve encountered, this Hogue unit feels significantly more robust and permanently integrated with the firearm.

Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80845

Specifications

The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80845 is specifically designed for Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk revolvers, ensuring a precise fit. It is constructed from genuine Coco Bolo wood, known for its beautiful grain patterns and inherent durability. This model features a top finger groove design, guiding your index finger to a consistent placement for improved accuracy. Additionally, it boasts a big butt profile, which effectively increases the grip’s surface area in the palm, leading to better recoil management. The grip is finished with heavy checkering on the front strap and the backstrap, providing exceptional purchase even under adverse conditions.

These specifications translate directly into an enhanced shooting experience. The Coco Bolo material offers a more premium feel and look than standard synthetics, providing a warmth and heft that many shooters appreciate. The top finger groove and big butt shape work in tandem to fill the hand more completely, distributing recoil forces more evenly across the palm and fingers. This leads to a more comfortable shooting experience, especially with potent magnum calibers. The aggressive checkering is not merely aesthetic; it’s functional, preventing the handgun from shifting in your grasp under stress or during rapid firing sequences. This focus on ergonomic details sets it apart from simpler grip designs.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of pure performance, the Hogue grip excels at its primary function: improving the shooter’s connection with the firearm. The designed finger grooves encourage proper hand placement, promoting a consistent grip that is fundamental for accuracy. The generous palm swell, or “big butt,” undeniably aids in absorbing and mitigating recoil, making follow-up shots quicker and less punishing. This is especially noticeable when firing heavier loads where muzzle flip can be a significant factor.

However, the aggressive nature of the heavy checkering does present a slight trade-off. While it provides unparalleled grip, prolonged contact, particularly with bare hands, can become somewhat abrasive. For those who frequently engage in extended shooting sessions without gloves, this might be a minor point of consideration. Nevertheless, for defensive or competitive shooting where a secure hold is paramount, this level of texturing is a significant advantage.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of this Hogue grip is where its true artistry lies. The choice of Coco Bolo wood is not just for looks; it’s a material that ages gracefully and offers a distinct tactile sensation. The fit onto the Ruger frame is exceptionally tight, with no perceptible gaps or looseness, speaking volumes about Hogue’s manufacturing precision.

Ergonomically, the grip is a triumph for medium to large hands. The sculpted finger grooves are well-proportioned, guiding the shooter’s hand into a natural and repeatable position. The enhanced palm swell truly fills the hand, offering a substantial anchor point that inspires confidence. This is a grip designed for control and comfort, allowing the shooter to focus more on their sight picture and trigger pull rather than fighting the firearm’s natural tendency to move.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of this Hogue grip is impressive, owing to both the robust Coco Bolo material and Hogue’s commitment to quality manufacturing. After extensive use, there are no signs of the wood cracking, splintering, or developing any structural weaknesses. The checkering remains sharp and effective, showing no signs of rounding or premature wear.

Maintenance is thankfully minimal. A regular cleaning with a soft cloth is generally sufficient for day-to-day upkeep. For deeper cleaning, a dedicated wood cleaner and polish can restore its sheen and protect the finish. It’s important to avoid harsh solvents or excessive moisture, as one would with any fine wood product, but within reasonable parameters, this grip is built to last.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular grip, the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80845, is primarily a standalone upgrade. It replaces the factory grips, so there are no additional accessories in the traditional sense that come bundled with it. However, its very design offers a significant form of customization by fundamentally altering the ergonomics and aesthetic of the firearm.

While Hogue does offer various grip types and materials, this specific Coco Bolo model is chosen for its unique aesthetic and tactile qualities. If one were looking for alternative customization, the market for Ruger revolver accessories includes items like custom cylinder release buttons or specialized speed loaders, but these are separate from the grip itself. The primary “customization” provided here is the inherent beauty and superior feel of the wood over standard synthetic options.

Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80845

Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80845?

This grip is an ideal choice for owners of Ruger GP100 or Super Redhawk revolvers who prioritize both performance and aesthetics. Shooters who engage in frequent range sessions, particularly those firing magnum calibers, will benefit greatly from the improved recoil management and secure grip. It’s also a fantastic option for individuals who appreciate the warmth and natural beauty of fine wood on their firearms, desiring a more refined and personalized look over standard polymer grips.

However, this model might not be the best fit for individuals with very small hands, as the “big butt” design is quite substantial. Additionally, those who exclusively shoot bare-handed for extended periods and are sensitive to abrasive textures might want to consider a less aggressively checkered variant or opt for shooting gloves. For those seeking a budget-friendly replacement, there are more economical options available, but they will likely compromise on materials and refined ergonomics.

Conclusion on Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80845

The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 80845 is a superb upgrade for the discerning Ruger revolver owner. It masterfully blends exceptional craftsmanship with functional design, delivering a tangible improvement in both handling and shooting comfort. The Coco Bolo wood is not only beautiful but also provides a durable and tactile surface that enhances control, while the sculpted finger grooves and palm swell effectively tame recoil. While the aggressive checkering might be a bit much for some, for the intended user seeking a premium, high-performance grip that looks as good as it feels, this Hogue unit is an outstanding investment. For anyone looking to elevate their Ruger GP100 or Super Redhawk experience, this grip comes highly recommended.