The Ruger Super Blackhawk is a legendary revolver, known for its power and robust build. But even the most powerful firearm can be improved with the right accessories, and one of the most impactful upgrades is a new set of grips. Choosing the right grips can dramatically enhance your shooting experience, improving comfort, control, and even accuracy. This guide dives deep into the best grips for your Ruger Super Blackhawk, considering various factors like material, style, and intended use.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Grips
Before we delve into specific grip recommendations, let's examine the key factors influencing your decision:
1. Hand Size and Shooting Style:
This is arguably the most crucial factor. Larger hands might benefit from larger grips offering a fuller, more substantial feel. Smaller hands might prefer smaller, more contoured grips to avoid discomfort and fatigue. Your shooting style—whether you're a casual shooter, competitive shooter, or hunter—will also influence your grip preference.
2. Material:
Grips are available in a wide array of materials, each with its own advantages and disadvantages:
- Wood: Offers a classic look and feel, excellent absorption of recoil, and often a comfortable texture. However, wood grips can be more susceptible to damage from moisture and require occasional maintenance.
- Rubber/Synthetic: Durable, weather-resistant, and often provide excellent shock absorption. They're a popular choice for their cost-effectiveness and practicality. However, some shooters find the feel less aesthetically pleasing than wood.
- Stag/Antler: These high-end options offer a luxurious feel, unique aesthetics, and excellent grip, but come with a significantly higher price tag.
3. Grip Style:
Grip style significantly impacts your shooting experience. Consider these popular options:
- Target Grips: These grips often feature a larger, more rounded palm swell for increased stability and accuracy, ideal for target shooting.
- Hunting Grips: These grips typically offer a more compact design and a more aggressive texture, aiding in recoil control during hunting situations.
- Combat Grips: Designed for quick target acquisition and efficient recoil management, these grips often feature a more aggressive texture and a less bulky design.
4. Intended Use:
Your intended use of the Super Blackhawk heavily influences grip selection. If you primarily use your revolver for target shooting, a target grip might be ideal. For hunting, a hunting grip with a better recoil-absorbing material might be preferred.
Top Grip Recommendations for Ruger Super Blackhawk
Now, let's explore some of the top-rated grips available for the Ruger Super Blackhawk:
High-End Options:
- Eagle Grips: Renowned for their exquisite craftsmanship and high-quality materials (wood, stag, etc.), Eagle Grips offer a luxurious shooting experience, though they come at a premium price. Their designs often focus on ergonomics and enhanced control.
- Altamont Company Grips: Another provider of top-tier grips, Altamont offers a diverse range of materials and styles, catering to various preferences and budgets. Their attention to detail is evident in their high-quality products.
Mid-Range Options:
- Hogue Grips: Hogue offers a wide selection of grips in various materials, including rubber and wood, providing excellent value for the money. They're known for their durability and comfortable designs.
- Uncle Mike's Grips: A popular choice among budget-conscious shooters, Uncle Mike's grips offer decent functionality and affordability, although they may not match the quality and refinement of higher-end options.
Budget-Friendly Options:
Several manufacturers offer more affordable rubber or synthetic grips that provide adequate functionality and protection. While they may not be as aesthetically pleasing or durable as higher-end options, they are a practical choice for those on a tighter budget.
Conclusion
Selecting the perfect grip for your Ruger Super Blackhawk is a personal journey. Consider your hand size, shooting style, intended use, and budget when making your decision. By carefully weighing these factors and exploring the various grip options available, you can significantly enhance your shooting experience and unlock the full potential of this iconic revolver. Remember to always handle firearms safely and responsibly.
