Hogue OverMolded Rubber Tamer Grip - Transform Your Ruger LCR & LCRx into a Comfortable Shooting Machine
The Hogue Tamer Grip revolutionizes the Ruger LCR and LCRx shooting experience by dramatically reducing felt recoil while providing superior control and comfort. Designed specifically for Ruger's popular LCR family of lightweight revolvers, this OverMolded rubber grip features Hogue's proprietary Tamer technology with an integrated Sorbothane recoil-absorbing cushion that can reduce perceived recoil by up to 50 percent. Whether you're shooting .38 Special +P defensive loads in your LCR or hot .357 Magnum rounds through your LCRx, this grip transforms your compact revolver into a controllable, comfortable shooting platform perfect for concealed carry, home defense, or range practice.
Key Features
- Universal LCR/LCRx Compatibility: Precision-engineered to fit all Ruger LCR models with enclosed hammers, LCRx models with exposed hammers, and LCRx 3-inch barrel variants. Compatible across all calibers including .22 LR, .38 Special, 9mm, and .357 Magnum.
- Tamer Recoil Reduction Technology: Features a strategically positioned Sorbothane insert in the palm area that absorbs and dissipates recoil energy, reducing felt recoil by up to 50 percent. Makes shooting powerful .357 Magnum loads significantly more comfortable and manageable.
- Proportioned Finger Grooves: Three precision-molded finger grooves naturally position your fingers for optimal grip alignment and trigger control. The grooves promote consistent hand placement for repeatable accuracy and reduce grip shift during rapid fire.
- Full-Hand Gripping Surface: Provides enough length for all four fingers to achieve a secure grip, eliminating the "pinky hang" common with factory LCR grips. Improved control without significantly impacting concealability.
- Speedloader Relief Cut: Incorporates a relief at the top of the grip that provides clearance for speedloaders and speed strips, enabling fast cylinder reloads without grip interference. Essential for defensive carry and competition use.
- OverMolded Rubber Construction: Manufactured from premium thermoplastic elastomer using Hogue's advanced molding process. The material provides firm yet comfortable grip without being spongy or tacky, maintaining performance in all conditions.
- Cobblestone Texture: Features Hogue's signature Cobblestone stippling pattern that delivers exceptional traction without being abrasive or irritating. Maintains positive control in wet, sweaty, cold, or adverse conditions.
- Gentle Palm Swell: Ergonomically designed palm swell fills the hand for improved comfort and control, distributing recoil forces across a larger area to reduce shooter fatigue.
- Monogrip One-Piece Design: Slides over the grip frame as a single unit, eliminating seams and providing complete coverage. The integrated reinforcing insert engages directly with the frame for a rock-solid grip-to-frame fit.
- Quick Installation: Installs in under a minute with just a screwdriver. Simply remove the factory grip screw, slide off the old grip, position the Hogue grip over the frame, and secure with the included mounting screw.
Technical Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hogue
- Model: Tamer Grip with Finger Grooves - LCR/LCRx
- Manufacturer Part Number: 78020
- SKU: 78020
- UPC: 743108780206
- Material: OverMolded thermoplastic elastomer rubber with Sorbothane recoil cushion
- Texture: Cobblestone stippling pattern
- Color: Black
- Design: Monogrip one-piece with finger grooves and speedloader relief
- Compatible Firearms: Ruger LCR (enclosed hammer), Ruger LCRx (exposed hammer), Ruger LCRx 3" barrel
- Caliber Compatibility: .22 LR, .38 Special, 9mm, .357 Magnum, and other LCR/LCRx chamberings
- Installation Hardware: Mounting screw included
- Made in USA: Manufactured by Hogue in California
Complete Compatibility
This Hogue Tamer Grip is precision-engineered for the complete Ruger LCR and LCRx revolver family:
Ruger LCR Models (Enclosed Hammer - DAO):
- Ruger LCR in .22 LR (8-shot)
- Ruger LCR in .38 Special +P (5-shot)
- Ruger LCR in 9mm Luger (5-shot)
- Ruger LCR in .357 Magnum (5-shot)
- All other LCR variants with enclosed hammer
Ruger LCRx Models (Exposed Hammer):
- Ruger LCRx in .22 LR (8-shot)
- Ruger LCRx in .38 Special +P (5-shot)
- Ruger LCRx in 9mm Luger (5-shot)
- Ruger LCRx in .357 Magnum (5-shot)
- Ruger LCRx 3-inch barrel variants in all calibers
- All other LCRx variants with exposed hammer
This grip fits both standard 1.875-inch barrel LCR/LCRx models and the longer 3-inch barrel LCRx variants. It is compatible across all caliber offerings in the LCR family.
Why Ruger LCR & LCRx Revolvers Need This Grip
Ruger's LCR and LCRx revolvers are incredibly popular for concealed carry due to their lightweight polymer/aluminum construction, modern design, and reliable performance. However, the lightweight design that makes them easy to carry all day also makes them snappy to shoot, especially with defensive ammunition. The factory grips, while compact and functional, concentrate recoil energy into a small area of the hand. The Hogue Tamer grip solves this problem by providing a Sorbothane recoil cushion, more gripping surface, and ergonomic shaping that distributes recoil forces effectively. Shooters consistently report that the Tamer grip makes their LCR feel like "a completely different gun" in terms of comfort and shootability.
Perfect for .357 Magnum LCR/LCRx Models
The Hogue Tamer grip is especially transformative on .357 Magnum LCR and LCRx models. These compact revolvers chambered in one of the most powerful defensive handgun cartridges can deliver punishing recoil with full-power loads. The Tamer technology's Sorbothane insert dramatically reduces the sharp, snappy recoil characteristic of lightweight .357 revolvers, allowing you to practice more frequently with magnum loads and maintain proficiency. Many shooters find that the Tamer grip makes the difference between carrying .38 Special loads for comfort and confidently carrying full-power .357 Magnum defensive ammunition.
What's Included
- Hogue OverMolded Rubber Tamer Grip with Finger Grooves (Model 78020)
- Stainless steel mounting screw
- Installation instructions
Installation Guide
Installing your Hogue Tamer grip on a Ruger LCR or LCRx takes less than a minute and requires only a Phillips screwdriver. First, remove the factory grip by unscrewing the grip screw located at the bottom of the grip frame—it's accessible through the factory grip's base. Once the screw is removed, slide the factory grip off the frame. Clean the grip frame to remove any dirt or residue. Position the Hogue grip over the frame, aligning the mounting hole. Insert the provided stainless steel mounting screw through the bottom of the grip and tighten securely with your screwdriver. The grip should seat fully against the frame with no gaps. That's it—you're ready to shoot. Many users complete the entire process in under 60 seconds.
Speedloader Compatibility
The relief cut at the top of the grip frame provides clearance for popular speedloaders including HKS speedloaders (Model HKS-LCR for 5-shot models), Safariland Comp I and Comp II speedloaders, 5-Star Speedloaders, and Bianchi Speed Strips. This clearance is critical for defensive carry scenarios where fast reloads can be essential. The relief is precisely positioned to provide maximum clearance without compromising grip security or comfort during firing.
Ideal For
This grip is perfect for concealed carry permit holders carrying Ruger LCR or LCRx revolvers for personal defense, law enforcement officers using LCR revolvers as backup guns, recreational shooters who want longer, more comfortable range sessions, competitive shooters in revolver divisions, firearms instructors teaching with LCR platforms, and anyone who finds their factory LCR grip too small or uncomfortable. The Tamer technology is especially beneficial for shooters who practice with +P ammunition, magnum loads, or who have arthritis or hand sensitivity. The improved comfort and control encourage more frequent practice, leading to better proficiency with your defensive firearm.
Concealed Carry Considerations
While this grip provides significantly more gripping surface than the ultra-compact factory boot grip, it maintains excellent concealability for everyday carry. The grip extends only slightly beyond factory dimensions—just enough to accommodate all fingers—while the rounded contours prevent printing in IWB holsters, pocket holsters, and ankle holsters. Many concealed carriers report that the modest increase in grip size is a worthwhile tradeoff for the dramatic improvement in control and comfort. The finger grooves also aid in achieving a consistent firing grip during the draw, improving your ability to get on target quickly from concealment.
Performance Benefits
Shooters who upgrade to Hogue Tamer grips on their Ruger LCR and LCRx revolvers consistently report multiple improvements including dramatically reduced felt recoil (especially with magnum loads), ability to shoot longer practice sessions without hand fatigue or discomfort, improved accuracy from better trigger control and consistent grip placement, faster follow-up shots due to reduced muzzle flip, enhanced confidence when carrying full-power defensive ammunition, greater willingness to practice regularly with their carry gun, and improved control for shooters with smaller or larger hands. The combination of recoil reduction, ergonomic shaping, and increased gripping surface makes the LCR platform significantly more user-friendly.
Finger Grooves vs. No Finger Grooves
Hogue offers this Tamer grip in versions with finger grooves (Model 78020 - this product) and without finger grooves (Model 78030). The finger grooved version provides indexed hand placement for consistent grip alignment, which many shooters prefer for accuracy and control. The grooves naturally position your fingers and promote repeatable grip placement shot after shot. However, hand size varies, so some shooters with particularly large or small hands may prefer the non-grooved version for a more customized grip. The grooved version (this model) is the most popular choice and works well for the majority of shooters.
Material Science: OverMolded Rubber Advantages
Hogue's thermoplastic elastomer is engineered specifically for firearm grips and offers significant advantages over traditional rubber materials. Unlike natural rubber that can become sticky in heat or brittle in cold, or cheap synthetic alternatives that degrade when exposed to gun cleaning solvents, Hogue's material maintains consistent properties across extreme temperature ranges and resists chemical degradation. The material is firm enough to provide positive control but soft enough to absorb recoil and provide all-day comfort. It won't leave residue on your hands or clothing, won't absorb moisture or perspiration, and maintains its texture and appearance for years of daily carry and range use.
About Hogue
Hogue has been manufacturing premium firearm grips and accessories since 1968 from their family-owned facility in California. Founded by Guy Hogue and now operated by his sons Aaron and Patrick, along with grandson Neil, Hogue remains committed to American manufacturing and producing the finest grips available. Hogue pioneered the use of advanced synthetic rubber materials in firearm grips and continues to innovate with new designs and technologies. Every Hogue product is made in the USA using advanced manufacturing techniques and stringent quality control. Hogue grips are trusted by law enforcement agencies, military units, competitive shooters, and discerning gun owners worldwide. When you choose Hogue, you're choosing over 50 years of innovation, craftsmanship, and dedication to improving the shooting experience.
Comparison with Factory Grip
Compared to the factory Ruger grip that comes standard on LCR and LCRx revolvers, the Hogue Tamer grip provides approximately 1/10 inch more width and 3/8 inch more length. This modest increase in dimensions provides dramatically improved control and comfort without significantly impacting concealability. The factory grip is designed for maximum compactness, which is excellent for deep concealment but leaves many shooters with their pinky finger hanging off the grip. The Hogue Tamer strikes an optimal balance—compact enough for everyday concealed carry but large enough for effective control and comfortable shooting. Most shooters find this to be the ideal grip size for the LCR platform.
Maintenance and Care
Hogue rubber grips require minimal maintenance. Simply wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt, powder residue, or oils after shooting sessions or carrying. The material is resistant to common gun cleaning solvents and lubricants, but avoid prolonged contact with harsh chemicals or petroleum-based products. The grip will not crack, peel, or deteriorate under normal use and will maintain its appearance and performance for years. If the Cobblestone texture becomes temporarily smooth due to oils or residue, a quick wipe with a slightly damp cloth will restore its effectiveness.
Warranty and Support
Hogue stands behind their products with comprehensive warranty coverage. This grip is backed by Hogue's limited lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship. Should you experience any issues with your grip, Hogue's customer service team is available to assist. With over five decades of manufacturing experience, Hogue has earned a reputation for standing behind their products and supporting their customers long after the sale.
Why This Upgrade Matters
Many Ruger LCR and LCRx owners purchase their revolvers for concealed carry but then avoid practicing with them because the factory grips make shooting uncomfortable, especially with +P or magnum ammunition. This creates a dangerous situation where your primary defensive firearm is the one you're least proficient with. The Hogue Tamer grip solves this problem by making your LCR pleasant to shoot, encouraging regular practice sessions and building the proficiency necessary for defensive use. The modest investment in a quality grip pays enormous dividends in comfort, accuracy, and most importantly, confidence in your ability to effectively use your defensive firearm when it matters most.