What You Should Know About the Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Lamo Camo No Finger Groove Big Butt 80434
As a long-time enthusiast and professional who has put countless gear pieces through their paces, I’m always on the lookout for components that can genuinely enhance a firearm’s handling and performance. The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Lamo Camo No Finger Groove Big Butt 80434 represents a significant upgrade for select Ruger revolvers, aiming to provide superior control and comfort. My own need for a more substantial and grippier grip on my well-used GP100, especially for extended range sessions, led me to explore this specific Hogue offering.
Upon receiving this grip, my first impression was one of solid, well-constructed quality. The Lamo Camo finish is visually striking, but more importantly, the material feels substantial and durable. It immediately suggested a significant improvement over the factory grip’s often sterile feel. I considered other aftermarket options, but Hogue’s reputation for quality and the specific design of this “big butt” model, intended to fill the hand more completely, made it a standout choice.
The initial feel of the grip, even before installation, hinted at a more secure and comfortable shooting experience. It felt like a natural extension of the handgun, promising to tame recoil and improve pointability. This promised improvement offered a welcome sense of relief from the slight discomfort I’d grown accustomed to with the original grip.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Lamo Camo No Finger Groove Big Butt 80434 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place on a brisk autumn afternoon at my local outdoor shooting range, where I brought my Ruger GP100 loaded with .357 Magnum rounds. The installation was straightforward, taking only a few minutes to remove the factory grip and secure the new Hogue unit. The difference in feel was immediately apparent; the grip filled my hand much more completely, providing a substantial purchase that felt secure even before firing a shot.
During the first few cylinders of .357 Magnum, the effectiveness of the Hogue grip became clear. The increased surface area and the material’s inherent tackiness absorbed recoil noticeably better than the stock grip. This translated into more comfortable shooting, allowing me to stay on target with less flinching and greater confidence. There were no immediate issues or surprises; it performed as advertised right out of the gate, feeling more like a precision tool than a generic accessory.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including multiple range days and some practice in less-than-ideal weather conditions (light rain, damp hands), this Hogue grip has held up remarkably well. It has become an integral part of my shooting experience, and I find myself reaching for my GP100 more often because of the enhanced control it offers. The Lamo Camo pattern remains vibrant, showing no signs of fading or discoloration, and the material itself exhibits no cracks, stiffness, or loss of its grippy texture.
Compared to other aftermarket grips I’ve used on different firearms over the years, this Hogue model sits firmly in the upper echelon. It offers a durability and performance that easily surpasses budget options, and it provides a comfort and control that rivals even some premium, hand-stitched leather alternatives, but with the added benefit of being weather-resistant. Maintenance is refreshingly simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and mild soap is usually all that’s needed to keep it looking and feeling fresh, a testament to its robust construction.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Lamo Camo No Finger Groove Big Butt 80434
Specifications
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Lamo Camo No Finger Groove Big Butt 80434 is specifically designed for the Ruger GP100 and Super Redhawk revolvers. It features a “Big Butt” design, which translates to a larger, more palm-filling shape than standard grips, offering enhanced stability and recoil management. The material is a proprietary Monogrip compound, known for its durability and non-slip properties, even when wet.
This particular model sports a distinctive Lamo Camo finish, adding a unique aesthetic appeal. Crucially, it is designed without finger grooves, allowing for a customizable grip position that suits a wider range of hand sizes and shooting styles. This lack of finger grooves, combined with the larger overall size, means it provides a more consistent contact surface for the shooter’s palm and fingers, a significant advantage for recoil mitigation.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function—improving handgun grip—this Hogue grip excels. It significantly enhances control over the Ruger GP100, especially during the firing of powerful cartridges like .357 Magnum. The larger size fills the hand completely, distributing felt recoil across a wider area of the palm, which greatly reduces fatigue and allows for faster follow-up shots.
The grip’s main strength lies in its ability to provide a secure and comfortable hold, making the firearm feel like a natural extension of the shooter’s hand. Its weakness, if one could call it that, is its size; while beneficial for recoil management and large hands, those with exceptionally small hands might find it slightly too large. However, for its intended purpose and for the average to large-handed shooter, it meets and often exceeds expectations, offering a substantial improvement over factory grips for a very reasonable price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Hogue grip is a clear win for shooters seeking enhanced ergonomics. The Monogrip material feels tacky yet smooth, offering a secure hold without causing hot spots or abrasions. The Lamo Camo finish is not just for show; it contributes a subtle texture that further aids in maintaining a solid grip.
The absence of finger grooves is a deliberate design choice that offers versatility. This allows the shooter to position their fingers naturally, finding the most comfortable and effective grip for their individual hand. The “big butt” profile ensures maximum contact with the palm, providing a stable platform that’s crucial for accuracy and comfort during extended shooting sessions. The overall feel is one of rugged reliability and user-centric design.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience and the reputation of Hogue products, this grip is built for longevity. The Monogrip material is known for its resistance to degradation from common gun oils, cleaning solvents, and environmental factors like sweat and UV exposure. It’s designed to withstand the rigors of regular use without showing premature wear.
Maintenance is incredibly straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth or a mild soap and water solution is sufficient to keep it clean and performing optimally. There are no complex parts or intricate designs that require special care, making it a hassle-free upgrade. Potential failure points are minimal, likely limited to extreme abuse, which is beyond the scope of typical firearm use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Lamo Camo No Finger Groove Big Butt 80434 itself is the primary component, and it doesn’t typically come with additional accessories. However, its design is focused on the customization of the shooting experience through its ergonomic properties and the absence of finger grooves. This feature allows for a personalized grip that traditional grooved grips cannot offer.
While this grip doesn’t directly interface with other accessories in the way a rail mount would, it significantly impacts the use of essential shooting gear like holsters. A comfortable and secure grip can often make a firearm easier to draw from a holster, particularly in dynamic shooting scenarios. The emphasis here is on enhancing the handgun’s natural interface with the shooter, rather than adding external attachments.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Lamo Camo No Finger Groove Big Butt 80434
Pros
- Superior Recoil Management: The “Big Butt” design and substantial material significantly reduce felt recoil, making shooting more comfortable.
- Enhanced Grip Security: The Monogrip compound provides an exceptionally secure and non-slip hold, even with sweaty hands.
- Versatile Ergonomics: The absence of finger grooves allows for a personalized grip placement suitable for various hand sizes and shooting styles.
- Durable Construction: Made from Hogue’s robust proprietary material, it is built to withstand heavy use and environmental exposure.
- Striking Aesthetic: The Lamo Camo finish offers a unique and visually appealing look that stands out.
Cons
- Size May Be Too Large for Some: While beneficial for recoil control, the “Big Butt” profile might be overly large for individuals with very small hands.
- Limited Color Options: While Lamo Camo is distinctive, fewer color choices might be available compared to some other grip manufacturers.
- No Integrated Accessory Mounts: As a grip replacement, it doesn’t offer picatinny rails or other accessory mounting points, which is expected but worth noting for some users.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Lamo Camo No Finger Groove Big Butt 80434?
This grip is an excellent choice for owners of the Ruger GP100 or Super Redhawk revolvers who are looking to significantly improve their shooting experience. It is particularly well-suited for individuals who shoot frequently, especially with potent calibers like .357 Magnum or .44 Magnum, and want to minimize recoil and maximize comfort. Those with larger hands will find the “Big Butt” profile exceptionally comfortable and secure.
Shooters who prefer a grip that allows for complete hand placement freedom, without the constraint of pre-molded finger grooves, will also appreciate this model. If you’re looking for a durable, reliable, and aesthetically pleasing upgrade that enhances control and reduces shooter fatigue, this Hogue grip is a strong contender. Individuals with very small hands should consider Hogue’s other models with finger grooves or slimmer profiles.
For an optimal experience, consider pairing this grip with quality ammunition and a reliable holster designed for revolvers with slightly larger grip frames. Ensure your firearm’s frame is clean before installation for a perfect fit.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Lamo Camo No Finger Groove Big Butt 80434
The Hogue Ruger GP100/Super Redhawk Handgun Grip Lamo Camo No Finger Groove Big Butt 80434 is a superb upgrade for select Ruger revolvers, delivering on its promise of enhanced control and comfort. Its substantial size, combined with the excellent grip material and the absence of finger grooves, creates a platform that effectively tames recoil and allows for a truly personalized shooting experience. The durability and aesthetic appeal, particularly the striking Lamo Camo finish, only add to its value.
For its price point, the performance and build quality are exceptional, easily justifying the investment for any serious shooter of these particular firearms. I would wholeheartedly recommend this grip to anyone seeking to improve their handling and shooting comfort with a Ruger GP100 or Super Redhawk, especially if they have medium to large hands and prioritize recoil mitigation. It’s a functional enhancement that transforms how the firearm feels and performs.