The Ruger Super Blackhawk is a legendary revolver, known for its power and reliability. But even the best firearm can be improved with the right accessories. One of the most impactful upgrades you can make is choosing the perfect grips. This guide dives deep into the world of Ruger Super Blackhawk grips, helping you find the best fit for your shooting style, hand size, and aesthetic preferences. We'll cover various grip materials, styles, and factors to consider when making your selection.
Understanding Your Needs: Choosing the Right Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips
Before diving into specific grip options, it's crucial to assess your individual needs and preferences. Consider these key factors:
Hand Size and Shape:
- Large Hands: If you have large hands, you might prefer larger grips that offer a full, comfortable grasp. Consider grips with a significant palm swell and substantial finger grooves.
- Small Hands: Smaller hands benefit from grips with a less pronounced palm swell and potentially shorter overall length. Grips that are too large can be cumbersome and uncomfortable.
- Hand Shape: Consider whether your hand is more narrow or broad. Some grips are designed to accommodate different hand shapes more effectively.
Shooting Style:
- Target Shooting: For precision target shooting, you may prefer grips that offer a stable platform and a controlled feel. Grips with a high degree of texturing can help with this.
- Hunting: Hunting often requires a more rugged grip that can withstand the elements and provide a secure hold in challenging conditions. Durable materials like wood or synthetic polymers are good choices.
- Concealed Carry (if applicable): If you're considering concealed carry with your Super Blackhawk (though it's not ideally suited for this), you'll need grips that are slim and comfortable to carry concealed.
Grip Material:
- Wood: Wood grips offer a classic look and feel, providing excellent shock absorption. They can be pricey and require more maintenance. Common woods include walnut, rosewood, and cocobolo.
- Synthetic Polymers (Rubber, Plastic): These are often more durable, weather-resistant, and less expensive than wood. They come in various textures and colors. Popular choices include rubber and various types of polymer compounds offering different levels of grip and durability.
- Stag Horn: Stag horn grips offer incredible beauty and durability, but they’re also among the most expensive options. They’re prized for their unique patterning and natural feel.
Popular Ruger Super Blackhawk Grip Styles and Brands
The market offers a vast array of grips for the Ruger Super Blackhawk. Let's explore some popular styles and brands:
1. Original Ruger Grips: Ruger offers its own line of factory grips. These are generally a good starting point, providing a reliable and functional grip. They are often made of hard rubber.
2. Eagle Grips: Eagle Grips are a very popular aftermarket choice known for its diverse range of grip materials and styles, including wood, synthetic polymers, and even exotic materials. They offer customizability and often cater to specific hand sizes and shooting styles.
3. Hogue Grips: Hogue is another renowned manufacturer known for its high-quality grips, available in a variety of materials, including rubber, wood, and synthetic polymers. Their grips are often praised for their comfort and ergonomics.
4. Uncle Mike's: Uncle Mike's offers more budget-friendly options, ideal for those seeking a functional and affordable grip. While not as refined as some other brands, they are often durable and reliable.
Installing Ruger Super Blackhawk Grips
Installing grips on a Ruger Super Blackhawk is typically a straightforward process, though you might need a few tools. Here’s a general guide:
- Safety First: Always unload your revolver and visually inspect the cylinder to ensure it is empty before handling grips.
- Remove Existing Grips: Usually, you’ll need a grip screw driver (often included with new grips) to remove the screws securing the old grips. Be careful not to strip the screw heads.
- Install New Grips: Align the new grips with the frame of your revolver and insert the screws. Tighten evenly to avoid damage.
Note: Specific installation steps may vary depending on the grip manufacturer and model. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions for detailed guidance.
Case Study: Comparing Two Popular Grip Options
Let's compare two popular grip choices for the Ruger Super Blackhawk: Hogue Monogrip and Eagle Grips Pachmayr Presentation Grips.
| Feature | Hogue Monogrip | Eagle Grips Pachmayr Presentation Grips |
|---|---|---|
| Material | Rubber | Rubber/Synthetic Polymer |
| Style | One-piece, ergonomic design | Traditional design with distinct palm swell |
| Price | Moderately priced | Moderately to high priced, depending on material |
| Durability | Very durable | Very durable |
| Comfort | Excellent, conforms to hand | Comfortable, but potentially less ergonomic for some |
| Best For | All-around use, comfortable grip | Target shooting, more traditional aesthetic |
Conclusion: Finding the Perfect Grip for Your Ruger Super Blackhawk
Selecting the right grips for your Ruger Super Blackhawk is a personal journey. By considering factors like hand size, shooting style, and budget, and exploring the variety of materials and styles available, you can find the perfect grip to enhance both your shooting experience and the aesthetic appeal of your firearm. Remember, always prioritize safety and refer to the manufacturer’s instructions when installing new grips. Happy shooting!