Let’s Dive into Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66935
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66935 is a premium aftermarket grip designed to enhance the ergonomics and aesthetics of Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with a square butt configuration. Crafted by Hogue, a renowned name in firearm accessories, this grip boasts a beautiful rosewood finish with a checkered pattern for improved purchase and a “Big Butt” design for enhanced recoil absorption. It’s a blend of classic aesthetics and modern functionality.
My journey to this grip started with a desire to improve the handling of my trusty Taurus 66. The factory grip, while functional, lacked the comfortable feel and secure grip I sought for extended range sessions and potential self-defense situations. I was looking for something that would not only improve my control but also add a touch of elegance to my revolver.
Upon unboxing the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66935, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the rosewood and the precision of the checkering. The weight felt substantial, suggesting a durable and well-made product. The grip felt smooth and contoured, hinting at improved comfort compared to the factory grip.
I considered alternatives like Pachmayr rubber grips, known for their exceptional recoil absorption, and some custom wood grips from smaller manufacturers. However, I chose the Hogue grip because of its combination of classic aesthetics, proven Hogue quality, and the unique “Big Butt” design aimed at mitigating recoil. Ultimately, the rosewood finish and checkered texture sold me.
My first impression was one of excitement. The Hogue grip promised a significant upgrade in both performance and aesthetics for my Taurus revolver. I couldn’t wait to install it and head to the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66935 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, an outdoor facility with covered shooting positions. I tested the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66935 on my Taurus 66, firing both .38 Special and .357 Magnum rounds. The weather was dry and sunny, providing ideal shooting conditions.
The difference with the Hogue grip was immediately noticeable. The checkered rosewood offered a far more secure grip than the factory rubber, even with sweaty hands. The “Big Butt” design seemed to effectively absorb recoil, especially with the more potent .357 Magnum rounds. The grip improved my control and follow-up shots considerably.
The installation was simple, requiring only the removal of the factory grip screw and the insertion of the Hogue grip, followed by re-tightening the screw. I did not need any special tools. The only minor issue was the screw needed a little more tightening than expected to fully secure the grip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66935 has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of wear and tear on the rosewood, and the checkering remains sharp and effective. I’ve used it extensively at the range, and it’s even been exposed to some light rain during an impromptu outdoor session.
Maintenance is minimal. I simply wipe the grip down with a clean cloth after each use to remove any dirt or grime. Occasionally, I’ll apply a thin coat of Hogue wood cleaner and conditioner to maintain the rosewood’s luster and prevent drying.
Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket grips, the Hogue grip far surpasses them in terms of comfort, control, and overall quality. My groupings are tighter, and I experience less fatigue during extended shooting sessions. It has significantly improved my enjoyment of shooting my Taurus revolver.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66935
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hogue. A well-respected company known for quality grips and firearm accessories.
- Color: Rosewood. Provides a classic and elegant aesthetic.
- Gun Make: Taurus. Specifically designed for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers.
- Grip Style: Square Butt. Fits Taurus revolvers with a square grip frame.
- Finger Grooves: No Finger Grooves. Offers a smooth, uninterrupted gripping surface for various hand sizes.
- Checkering: Yes. Provides enhanced grip and control, especially in wet or sweaty conditions.
- “Big Butt” Design: Yes. Enlarged profile at the base of the grip helps absorb recoil and improve control.
- Material: Rosewood. A durable and attractive hardwood.
- Compatibility: Taurus Medium & Large Frame Revolvers with Square Butt, including Models 65, 66, 689, and similar.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the grip’s functionality, comfort, and overall shooting experience. The rosewood offers both beauty and durability, while the checkering enhances grip. The absence of finger grooves makes it versatile for different hand sizes.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66935 excels at enhancing the shooter’s control and comfort. The checkering allows for a firm, confident grip, while the “Big Butt” design noticeably reduces felt recoil, especially with magnum loads. The absence of finger grooves is a welcome change, accommodating different hand sizes comfortably.
The strengths of this grip lie in its superior ergonomics, recoil absorption, and secure grip. A potential improvement could be the inclusion of different screw lengths to accommodate variations in Taurus frame dimensions. Otherwise it exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue grip is a masterpiece of design and ergonomics. The rosewood is beautifully finished, and the checkering is precise and functional. The weight feels balanced and substantial, contributing to a feeling of quality and control. It feels very comfortable in the hand.
The grip is undeniably user-friendly. Installation is straightforward. There is virtually no learning curve, as the grip simply replaces the factory grip and immediately improves handling.
Durability & Maintenance
The rosewood construction ensures excellent durability. The grip is resistant to scratches and wear, and the checkering is unlikely to degrade with normal use. The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66935 should last for many years with proper care.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning with appropriate wood care products. There are no complex parts or mechanisms to worry about repairing.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66935 doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it’s fully compatible with any holsters designed for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with square butt grips. Also, while the rosewood is beautiful, it can be further customized with aftermarket finishes or checkering patterns by a skilled gunsmith.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66935
Pros
- Superior Grip: Checkered rosewood provides a secure and comfortable hold, even with sweaty hands.
- Recoil Absorption: The “Big Butt” design effectively reduces felt recoil, improving comfort and control.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: Rosewood finish adds a touch of elegance and classic style to your revolver.
- Versatile Fit: No finger grooves accommodate a wide range of hand sizes.
- Easy Installation: Simple drop-in replacement for the factory grip.
Cons
- Price: Rosewood grips are more expensive than synthetic alternatives.
- Wood Maintenance: Requires occasional cleaning and conditioning to maintain its appearance and prevent drying.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66935?
This grip is perfect for Taurus revolver owners seeking enhanced control, recoil mitigation, and a touch of classic elegance. It is ideal for competitive shooters, recreational shooters, and individuals who carry a Taurus revolver for self-defense. Anyone who appreciates the look and feel of a finely crafted wood grip will also find this product appealing.
Those who prioritize extreme durability above all else might consider synthetic grips instead. Shooters with very small hands may prefer grips with finger grooves for added purchase. Anyone completely unwilling to do basic cleaning and occasional care should avoid this product.
A must-have accessory would be a quality gun cleaning kit with wood-specific cleaner and conditioner. No other modifications are strictly necessary, but some shooters may opt for a custom holster to accommodate the slightly larger “Big Butt” profile.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66935
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66935 is a worthwhile investment for any Taurus revolver owner looking to improve their shooting experience. It offers a significant upgrade in terms of grip, recoil control, and aesthetics. The blend of classic rosewood and modern design makes it a standout product in the aftermarket grip category.
The price is justified given the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and the noticeable improvement in handling and comfort. For me, it has transformed my Taurus 66 into an even more enjoyable and capable firearm.
I wholeheartedly recommend this grip. If you own a compatible Taurus revolver and want to elevate its performance and appearance, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66935 is an excellent choice. Upgrade your grip, upgrade your experience!