Taking Your Shifting to the Next Level

The Hurst Pistol Grip Shifter has been an iconic performance accessory since its introduction in the 1960s. This unique shifter, with its pistol grip handle angled for faster shifts, has graced countless hot rods and muscle cars over the decades.

Today, Hurst continues to refine and improve their classic Pistol Grip design. Modern Hurst shifters incorporate the latest materials and engineering while retaining the slick shifting feel that made them famous.

If you’re looking to upgrade the shifter in your classic or modern muscle car, a Hurst Pistol Grip is one of the best options on the market. This buying guide will explore everything you need to know about choosing the right Hurst shifter for your ride.

Key Features of the Hurst Pistol Grip Shifter

The defining feature of the Hurst Pistol Grip is its angled grip handle, allowing you to shift with a flick of the wrist. But Hurst shifters offer a lot more than just quick shifts. Here are some of the key benefits:

• Lightning-fast shifts: The angled grip and short throw make for fast, precise shifting ideal for performance driving.
• Positive shift feel: The shifter mechanism provides crisp, firm shifts you can feel. No more sloppy shifter feel.
• Comfortable grip: The grip is designed to fit naturally and comfortably in your hand, even when wearing racing gloves.
• High-quality components: Hurst uses performance materials like stainless steel components, aluminum and reinforced polymer for durability.
• Easy installation: Most Hurst shifters directly replace factory shifters and use existing linkage. Complete kits available.
• Broad compatibility: Hurst offers application-specific shifters for GM, Ford, Mopar, imports, and more.
• Customization options: Choices of grip materials and styles allow you to customize the look.

The Hurst shifter gives you the quickest, most precise shifts possible in an easy-to-install package. It’s the ideal upgrade for any car where fast shifting is a priority.

How to Install a Hurst Pistol Grip Shifter

One of the big advantages of the Hurst Pistol Grip is relatively simple installation. For most applications, you won’t need to make any modifications to the transmission or drivetrain. Here are the basic installation steps:

Step 1: Disconnect negative battery cable and remove interior console and trim around shifter.

Step 2: Remove the stock shifter mechanism by disconnecting shift linkage and unbolting from transmission or chassis.

Step 3: Inspect the existing shifter platform and clean if needed. Also inspect shift linkage – replace bent or worn parts.

Step 4: Bolt the new Hurst shifter securely in place of the stock shifter. Torque bolts to spec.

Step 5: Connect the shift linkage and check operation by shifting through all gears with ignition off. Linkage adjustment may be needed.

Step 6: Reinstall console and trim. Attach shifter grip if required. Reconnect negative battery cable when done.

Step 7: Road test car and fine tune shifter adjustment as needed for positive shift feel. Consider adding transmission fluid if changed.

That’s the basic installation process, though every vehicle is a little different. Having a service manual for your specific car can help with details. Use the proper tools and take your time for a smooth installation.

Vehicle Compatibility with Hurst Shifters

One great thing about Hurst Pistol Grip shifters is the huge range of vehicle compatibility. Hurst makes application-specific shifters engineered to directly replace factory units and work with the existing linkage in many vehicles.

Some of the most popular applications include:

• GM/Chevy: Camaro, Corvette, Impala, Chevelle, El Camino, and other models.
• Ford: Mustang, Shelby GT350/GT500, F-100 trucks, classic galaxie, and more.
• Mopar: Challenger, Charger, Barracuda, Dart and other classic Mopars.
• Imports: Honda, Acura, Nissan, Toyota, Mazda, and more.
• Hot rods & classics: Compatible with GM, Ford and Mopar classics, hot rods, and custom builds.
• Modern performance: Works with new Camaro, Mustang, Challenger, Charger, Corvette, and other performance models.

Hurst also has universal shifter kits that can adapt to work on almost any 3 or 4-speed manual transmission. With so many options, you can likely find a Pistol Grip shifter engineered for your exact vehicle.

Where to Buy a Hurst Pistol Grip Shifter

As a major aftermarket brand, Hurst shifters are carried by many retailers online and locally. Here are some of the best places to buy:

• Auto parts stores: Check major chains like AutoZone, O’Reilly Auto Parts, Pep Boys, etc. Many carry a selection of Hurst shifters.
• Online retailers: Large online stores like Jegs, Summit Racing, and Mr. Gasket sell Hurst shifters with competitive pricing.
• Specialty shops: Performance shops focused on hot rods, imports or your car brand often stock Hurst parts.
• Direct from Hurst: You can buy directly from Hurst’s website to get latest products directly.
• Flea markets & swap meets: You can sometimes find great deals on new old stock or gently used Hurst shifters.
• Classified ads: Check sites like Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, etc. Used Hurst shifters turn up often at good prices.

Shop around for availability and pricing, as some retailers run promotions and sales events on Hurst products throughout the year.

What is the Price Range of the Hurst Shifter?

Hurst Pistol Grip shifters span a wide range when it comes to pricing. Generally, expect to pay:

• $150-300: Basic bolt-on shifters for common domestic vehicles like Mustang or Camaro.
• $250-500: Application-specific shifters for imports or less common vehicles. May include other components.
• $400-600: Universal shifter kits with multiple components and adapters.
• $600+: All-billet machined shifters and premium collections like Hurst Elite shifters.

Pricing determines materials used and precise fitment level. For example, a $500 Hurst shifter for your specific Mustang will fit perfectly, while a $150 universal kit requires some custom fabrication.

It’s worth paying a little more upfront to get an application-specific shifter that bolts in place of your factory shifter. This avoids complicated retrofitting or modifications down the road. Consider budgeting $200-400 for a nice upgrade.

How Hurst Compares to Other Shifter Brands

Hurst pioneered the pistol grip shifter, but today they compete with dozens of other aftermarket shifter companies. So how does Hurst compare to some other top brands?

• Hurst is the original and still a top choice for iconic pistol grip design. Offers a huge range of compatibility and options. Known for quality components and smooth shifting.
• B&M makes racing-inspired shifters focused on fast shifts. Good high-performance option but less street-friendly than Hurst. Lower cost on some models.
• Barton offers exceptional precision and solid feel from their hybrid polymer/billet shifters. Slightly pricier but great quality.
• Mg racing has affordable universal shifter kits good for budget builds or custom setups. More DIY fabrication required for install.
• Pro 5.0 is popular for Mustang V8 swaps using T-5 transmissions. Great performance value but limited applications.

When installed properly, all quality brands will provide solid shifting. Ultimately Hurst remains the leader in pistol grip design and heritage while continuing to innovate.

Materials Used in Hurst Shifters

Hurst uses a blend of high-quality modern materials to create a precise, rigid, and smooth-shifting experience. Some key components include:

• Billet steel lever arms and shift rods provide exceptional strength and durability. Steel parts are often zinc plated or powder coated.
• Reinforced polymer composite is used for the grip and base. This polymer balances strength with low weight. Some shifters use machined aluminum instead.
• Stainless steel fittings, springs and fasteners resist corrosion and wear for long life. Springs optimize shifter feel.
• Nylon bushings at pivoting points provide smooth shift motion without binding. Specialized lubricants reduce friction.
• Aircraft grade cables connect the shifter mechanism to your transmission linkage. Cables are made tough to avoid binding or kinking.
• Chrome plating on handles and visible parts enhances aesthetics and provides corrosion protection.

Hurst rigorously tests prototypes and components to validate the design. This ensures the shifter will provide precision shifting and hold up to years of performance driving.

Caring for Your Hurst Shifter

Like any performance part, proper care helps a Hurst shifter last. Here are some tips for maintenance:

• Use shifter bushings to minimize excessive wear and help avoid loose or sloppy shifter feel over years of driving.
• Lubricate pivot points and linkages to prevent binding and keep shifts smooth. Use a Teflon spray lube made for shifters.
• Adjust shifter periodically to account for natural wear in bushings and maintain crisp shift feel.
• Keep handles clean and look new with car interior cleaners and protectants – avoid harsh chemicals or abrasives.
• Inspect cables for damage or kinks – replace damaged cables immediately. Lubricate cables occasionally with silicone spray.
• Clean dirt buildup on lower shifter parts using brake or electrical cleaner – avoid direct pressure washing.
• Check transmission mounts – bad mounts can negatively impact shifter feel and lead to excessive wear.

With periodic inspection and cleaning, your Hurst shifter should provide precise, solid shifts for many miles. Proper adjustment and lubrication will maximize the life of your shifter.

Benefits of the Hurst Pistol Grip Design

The angled pistol grip handle isn’t just for style – this iconic shifter design offers real performance benefits:

• Faster shifts: The grip angle allows you to shift with a quick flick of the wrist – ideal for drag racing.
• Better leverage: The pistol grip provides maximum leverage for easier shifting compared to a straight handle.
• More comfortable: The grip fits your hand naturally with space for fingers and great ergonomics.
• Greater control: Excellent grip means you won’t lose hold of the shifter during aggressive driving.
• Better access: The location and compact handle keeps the shifter out of the way of your elbows and knees.
• Cool factor: It just looks awesome and gives your car that classic performance vibe.

The next time you’re rowing gears in your muscle car, you’ll appreciate how the Hurst pistol design completely transforms the shifting experience. Your hand was meant to hold a grip like this!

Shifter Styles and Customization Options

While the angled grip is Hurst’s claim to fame, they offer many styles and custom options:

• Straight handle shifters maintain the Hurst quality in a traditional stick shift design.
• Classic wood or aluminum knobs change up the look of your shifter handle.
• Custom graphics let you choose colors or iconic Hurst designs.
• Black anodized finishes look sinister and high-tech inside your car.
• Polished metal handles add some gleaming chrome or aluminum shine.
• Leather wrapped grips provide an upscale, performance feel.
• Open frame design displays intricately machined parts.
• Multi-piece kits allow you to assemble a one-of-a-kind shifter.

With so many choices, you can easily customize your Hurst shifter to match your car’s interior styling and personality. Find a combination that helps your ride stand out.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

With Hurst shifters being on the market for over 60 years, there are countless customer reviews across generations of car enthusiasts. Here’s what drivers say about the Hurst Pistol Grip:

• Excellent shifting feel with solid, crisp changes between gears. The iconic Hurst shift click is there.
• Dramatically improved shifting over sloppy factory shifters – more precise with less throw required between gears.
• Very quick installation using existing linkage – big upgrade without major work.
• Quality construction and materials that look great and stand the test of time. Real metal components.
• The angled grip is very comfortable in hand and allows faster shifting – big advantage driving aggressively.
• Impressive technical support from Hurst to help get the perfect fit.

Most reviews give Hurst shifters top marks for performance, quality and drivability. For old and new muscle cars alike, the Hurst Pistol Grip earns its reputation as one of the best shifter upgrades you can make.

Does the Hurst Shifter Improve Performance?

With its racing-developed angled grip and smooth precision mechanism, the Hurst shifter absolutely gives you a performance edge over stock shifters:

• Quicker shifts mean faster acceleration out of corners and down the quarter mile. Leave competitors behind.
• Firmer, more positive feel results in less missed or soft shifts. You’ll stay in the powerband.
• Less throw between gears allows you to shift faster while keeping both hands on the wheel during hard driving.
• Greater durability ensures the shifter maintains precision even under hard use on the racetrack or street. No sloppy play.
• More comfortable grip reduces fatigue allowing you to focus solely on driving fast. The shifter becomes one with your hand.
• Custom lengths and ratios available to optimize shifter for specific cars and applications.

Don’t underestimate how much a great shifter like the Hurst improves driving connection and control. It’s worth every penny for driving enthusiasts.

What is the Warranty from Hurst?

All Hurst brand shifters are backed by a 1 year limited warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. This protects against the shifter breaking under normal use.

The warranty is valid for the original purchaser with proof of purchase. It does not cover damage from improper installation, abuse or modification. Using the shifter beyond its intended capability will also void the warranty.

1 year is the industry standard warranty for aftermarket shifters. While not the longest coverage, it provides peace of mind that Hurst stands behind their products and you won’t be stuck with a defective shifter. Just be sure it is installed and used correctly.

Customizing Your Hurst Shifter

The great thing about Hurst shifters is they are designed as direct bolt-in replacements for factory shifters. But Hurst understands many shifter fans want to customize:

• Shorter or longer throw adjustments are possible by modifying outer shift lever length.
• Shifter relocation kits allow mounting the shifter handle in a wide range of positions.
• Custom shift knobs in different shapes, colors and materials enable personalized style.
• Add accessories like locking pins, handle extensions, or shifter covers to make it your own.
• Adaptability for GM, Ford, Mopar makes it easy to put a Hurst shifter in almost any custom car.
• Use of Hurst components like open frame sticks or multi-piece kits for truly unique shifters.

While it takes fabrication skills, Hurst shifters are very customizable. Whether you’re swapping the stick or crafting a one-off show car shifter, Hurst provides all the performance parts you need to make it happen.

Tools Needed for Installation

Good news – installing a Hurst shifter uses tools you likely already have in your toolbox:

• Basic hand tools like wrenches, sockets, pliers and screwdrivers cover most fasteners during installation. SAE and metric sizes needed.
• Torque wrench ensures you tighten mounting bolts and hardware to factory specs to avoid breaking or loosening.
• Mallet and punch helps knock out roll pins during shifter removal and install.
• Utility knife makes quick work of any zip ties holding existing shift cables. Replace cables for clean install.
• Clean rags and cleaner to prep the transmission shift arm and mounting area before installing new shifter.
• Vehicle lift or jacks makes access easier but you can install shifters using floor jacks and jack stands.
• Electrical tape for wrapping and securing small parts or wires pulled loose during installation.

With these standard tools, you’ll tackle the Hurst shifter install without issues. Having a service manual as reference helps too.

Is Professional Installation Recommended?

Here’s the good news – for most vehicles, the Hurst shifter is designed to directly replace your stock shifter without requiring major modifications. This makes DIY installation totally achievable for the home mechanic.

However, there are a few cases where you may want a professional installer’s experience and tools:

• If you need to fabricate or weld custom mounting brackets to fit the new shifter.
• For unique vehicles without off-the-shelf shifter adapters.
• If adjusting or replacing worn transmission linkage.
• To shorten or lengthen shifter throws by modifying control arms.
• When relocating or repositioning the shifter assembly for custom builds.
• If you don’t have the proper tools, lift, or workspace to comfortably work on it yourself.

Overall, expect to spend $50-150 in labor at a shop if you need a hand. The pros can knock it out quickly – but consider installing yourself to save money!

How to Clean Your Hurst Shifter

It’s amazing how much dirt and grime can collect on surfaces inside your car over years of driving. Here are some tips for detailing your Hurst shifter:

• Use an interior cleaner or all-purpose cleaner to dissolve dirt and oil on the grip and metal surfaces. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners.
• For stubborn deposits, use a soft brush or plastic scraper to gently dislodge grime without damaging the finish.
• Wipe down all surfaces with a microfiber cloth until completely clean.
• Apply a protectant like Mother’s Back-to-Black to restore faded black plastic and rubber grip parts.
• Use a quick detailer and microfiber to add shine to any chrome or aluminum stick shift components.
• For an extremely grungy shifter, remove it entirely and deep clean the parts with degreaser before reinstalling.
• Vacuum around the base of the shifter and in crevices to remove loose dirt.

Regular cleaning helps your Hurst shifter look its best and brings back that fresh installed look. Just avoid using too much pressure or abrasive cleaners.

History of the Hurst Shifter

The history of Hurst shifters traces back to the brand’s founder, George Hurst. He first produced floor-mounted shifters in the 1950s for his Kaiser Manhattan car. However, it was when Hurst partnered with GM designer Harry Bentley Bradley that the iconic Hurst pistol grip stick shift was born.

Soon, Hurst shifters became factory options on Pontiac GTOs, Oldsmobile 442s, and other muscle cars through partnerships with automakers. The 1960s and 70s glory days of Hurst saw shifters included on the Pontiac Firebird, Plymouth Barracudas, AMC AMXs and more factory hot rods.

As muscle cars declined, Hurst continued producing aftermarket shifters. Modern versions have the same instantly recognizable grip but with updated materials and manufacturing.

Today, Hurst engineers work directly with the Detroit automakers to offer factory shifter upgrades on new Camaros, Mustangs, Challengers and other performance models. More than 50 years on, Hurst remains the premier name in stick shift history.

Common Hurst Shifter Issues

When installed properly, the Hurst shifter is designed for trouble-free operation and years of service. However, some common issues can potentially occur:

• Loose shifter action resulting from worn nylon bushings or loose mounting bolts. Replace bushings and tighten all hardware to spec.
• Difficult shifting caused by low transmission fluid, incorrect shifter adjustment, or worn shift forks. Verify proper fluid level, adjustment and lubrication.
• Noise during shifting attributed to worn or damaged shift lever pivot pins. Inspect and replace pins/springs as needed.
• Broken or cracked shift lever often from abusive shifting past mechanical stops. Replace defective parts immediately.
• Detached shift knob usually from impact or worn knob retaining screw. Tighten knob screw or use stronger Loctite threadlocker.
• Damaged or bent shift cables normally from kinking or pressing cables too tight. Inspect cables and replace if damaged.

Thankfully, Hurst shifters are engineered for longevity and easy servicing of common wear points when needed.

Vehicles that Came with Hurst Shifters Stock

During the 1960s and 70s, Hurst shifters were factory-installed options on numerous high-performance vehicles:

• Pontiac GTO: The iconic muscle car that pioneered factory Hurst shifters as an option starting in 1964.
• Oldsmobile 442: Optional Hurst Dual-Gate sticks made the 442 a top muscle car.
• Plymouth Barracuda: Optional on the ‘Cuda, especially paired with the Hemi V8 option.
• AMC AMX: Hurst shifter was the standard transmission paired with AMC’s 390 V8 in 1968-69.
• Mercury Cougar: Some early Cougar XR-7s came with Hurst shifter options.
• Buick Gran Sport: Optional Hurst sticks shifted Buick’s 400 and 455 V8s through the 1960s.
• Pontiac Firebird: Hurst shifters came on Firebirds through multiple generations, lasting into the 1980s.

Beyond these factory offerings, Hurst shifters have been a premier upgrade for hot rodders since the 1950s and continue today. Their iconic legacy lives on!

In Summary

For over 60 years, Hurst has engineered some of the smoothest, most precise shifters ever offered from the factory or the aftermarket. With its instantly recognizable pistol grip, excellent ergonomics and race-ready performance, the Hurst stick shift is a true icon.

If you’re looking to upgrade your own muscle car or hot rod, a Hurst shifter should be at the top of your list. With application-specific designs, quality components and smooth shifting, it’s easy to see why Hurst remains the gold standard for discerning enthusiasts. Consider a Hurst shifter as the final touch to making your car a true driver’s machine.