Three years ago I replaced the grips on my CZ SP-01 — which sported G10 grips from a different, popular manufacturer — with a set from Hogue. The purchase was made just for aesthetics, as I liked the look of the Hogue Extreme G10 G-Mascus ones better or, maybe, it was simply time for something new. I had no complaints about the function or feel of the ones that I had been using. After all, they are highly regarded and may well be the most popular G10 grip choice for CZs. Opening the Hogue package was a pleasant surprise, however, as. . .
…it was immediately apparent that the Hogue pieces were of a higher quality. The G10 felt denser, more solid. The lines and edges were sharper and didn’t have that slightly fuzzy appearance that a lot of machined G10 parts can get, especially if they try to make them too intricate. The fit was better. No flexing, no gaps at all. Nice and flush and secure.
So there they’ve remained, on my competition and fun-use SP-01 (more than any other pistol, this is “my gun”), for the last few years and I have zero itch to make any further changes.
Hogue offers a handful of different standard textures plus options for some custom ones, but I really like the feel and the grip of this “Chainlink” pattern. It’s basically dozens of raised ridges on an otherwise flat plain. It’s comfortable, but it’s grippy.
With that positive experience in the bag I couldn’t help but pick up a matching set of AR-15 parts: pistol grip and trigger guard. Of course, when I eventually went to write up this review it turned out that none of the five AR-15 receivers I have here have a removable trigger guard. Not one mil-spec receiver in the house — all built-in guards.
So, well, the Hogue G10 trigger guard is in the photos and I’m sure you get the idea. They make ’em in straight and in enlarged or “winter” trigger guard style, and in all of the color patterns that you’ll find in the rest of the G10 line (which is quite extensive. For instance, here’s a link to a G-Mascus grip in “Piranha” texture for the Ruger LCR, which is just one of many dozens of handguns they’re available for).
The density and quality of the G10 epoxy laminate was apparent to me when I first felt the CZ grip panels, and I think this materials quality is what allows Hogue to machine it so cleanly. The AR-15 grip lived up to the same high standards — it’s totally clean in every way, and fit is spot-on — and the trigger guard fits and looks great along with it.
Also worth mentioning while on the subject of Hogue, the company’s new website is a vast improvement over the old one. When I went to pick up these AR-15 parts, I was pleasantly surprised to see the changes. It’s much easier to navigate and nicer to look at. I just wish I could bring myself to spend the funds on a matching knife.
Ratings (out of five stars):
Fit & Finish * * * * *
Fit is spot on, machining is crisp and flawless.
Feel * * * * *
I like G10. It has the warmth — never hot, never cold, just kinda neutral — of wood but is stronger, more durable and more modern or high-tech. I like it for grips and grip panels better than metal, too. And better than plastic, for that matter.
Style * * * * *
To each his own, but Hogue offers tons of color patterns, solid colors, textures, and materials. Most of the grips available in G10 can be purchased in aluminum (there’s an entire line of aluminum AR-15 pistol grips) and/or various woods, and sometimes in rubber overmold. Lots and lots of style options, so there’s probably “something for everyone” if the patterned G10 doesn’t do it for you.
Name * *
“Hogue Extreme Series AR15 / M16 Chain Link G10 G-Mascus Black/Gray” is a bit of a mouthful.
Overall * * * * *
The bee’s knees in G10 epoxy laminate grips.