Let’s Dive into Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211
The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211 is a premium aftermarket grip designed to enhance the handling and aesthetics of the Taurus 85 revolver. Made by Hogue, a renowned name in the firearms accessories industry, this grip promises improved ergonomics and a classic look with its Goncalo Alves wood and checkered texture. As someone who’s spent over a decade fine-tuning firearms for optimal performance and aesthetics, I was eager to see if this grip lived up to the Hogue reputation.
My journey to this grip began with a Taurus 85 that, while reliable, felt somewhat lacking in the grip department. The factory grip was functional, but its small size and slick plastic construction didn’t inspire confidence during rapid firing drills. I was looking for a grip that would provide a more secure hold, improve recoil management, and add a touch of class to my trusty revolver.
Upon unboxing the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the materials. The Goncalo Alves wood possessed a rich, warm color and beautiful grain pattern, instantly elevating the look of the Taurus 85. The checkered texture felt aggressive enough to provide excellent grip without being abrasive. The fit and finish were also top-notch, with no visible gaps or imperfections. Its weight felt substantial, suggesting it could positively impact the handling of the revolver.
I considered several other grips before settling on this Hogue model. Pachmayr offers similar rubber grips, which excel at recoil absorption but lack the visual appeal I desired. Altamont provides a range of aesthetically pleasing wood grips, but their checkering sometimes feels too mild for serious use. I ultimately chose the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211 because it seemed to strike the perfect balance between form and function.
My initial reaction was one of excitement and anticipation. I couldn’t wait to install the grip and see how it transformed the feel and performance of my Taurus 85. It felt like I was about to give my revolver a much-needed upgrade.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211 was at my local shooting range. I wanted to gauge how the grip affected my accuracy and recoil control during rapid-fire drills. The weather was a typical humid summer day, presenting a challenge for maintaining a secure grip.
The Hogue grip immediately proved its worth. The checkered Goncalo Alves wood provided a secure and comfortable hold, even with sweaty hands. Recoil felt noticeably reduced compared to the factory grip, allowing me to maintain a consistent sight picture and fire follow-up shots more quickly. I didn’t need any time to adjust; the grip felt natural and intuitive from the start.
The only minor issue I encountered was a slight increase in perceived weight, but this was easily offset by the improved control and stability. The weight provided more balance and less ‘flip’ of the firearm.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite being subjected to hundreds of rounds at the range and occasional exposure to inclement weather. The Goncalo Alves wood has retained its rich color and the checkering remains sharp and effective.
Maintaining the grip is simple: a quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each range session is all that’s needed. I occasionally apply a thin coat of quality wood preservative to keep the Goncalo Alves looking its best. Compared to the factory grip, the Hogue grip feels significantly more durable and capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use.
My previous experiences with aftermarket grips have been mixed, with some proving flimsy or uncomfortable over time. The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211 has exceeded my expectations in terms of both comfort and durability. It has truly enhanced my shooting experience with the Taurus 85.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211
Specifications
The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance:
- Material: The grip is crafted from Goncalo Alves wood, known for its strength, durability, and attractive grain patterns. This material provides a classic look and a comfortable feel in hand.
- Texture: The grip features a crisp, machine-cut checkered texture that enhances grip security without being overly abrasive. This texturing ensures a positive hold, even in wet or sweaty conditions.
- Finger Grooves: This particular model features no finger grooves, catering to shooters who prefer a more traditional grip style. The absence of finger grooves allows for greater hand placement flexibility.
- Fit: The grip is specifically designed to fit the Taurus 85 revolver, ensuring a seamless and secure installation. The precise fit eliminates wobble or movement during firing.
- Color: The Goncalo Alves wood provides a warm, natural color that enhances the aesthetics of the Taurus 85. The natural wood color makes the firearm stand out.
These specifications directly impact the user experience. The Goncalo Alves wood provides a comfortable and secure grip, while the checkered texture ensures a positive hold. The absence of finger grooves allows for greater hand placement flexibility, catering to a wide range of hand sizes and shooting styles.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211 excels at its primary job: improving the shooter’s grip and control over the firearm. Accuracy is enhanced due to the more secure hold, and recoil management is noticeably improved. The grip’s ergonomic design reduces hand fatigue, even during extended shooting sessions.
The grip’s strengths lie in its comfortable texture, secure fit, and durable construction. Its weakness, if any, is that the Goncalo Alves wood may be more susceptible to scratches and dings compared to synthetic materials. Overall, the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211 meets and exceeds expectations for an aftermarket grip.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211 is exceptional. The Goncalo Alves wood is beautifully finished and the checkering is precisely executed. The grip feels substantial in hand, adding a sense of quality and durability to the Taurus 85.
The grip is user-friendly and requires no special tools or skills to install. The grip seamlessly replaces the factory grip without any modifications.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211 is built to last. The Goncalo Alves wood is a durable material that can withstand the rigors of regular use. With proper care, the grip should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple: a regular wipe down with a clean cloth and occasional application of wood preservative is all that’s needed. The grip is easy to clean and does not require any special cleaning solutions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211 is primarily a grip replacement and does not come with any additional accessories. While the grip itself cannot be further customized, it is compatible with most holsters designed for the Taurus 85 revolver.
The grip’s classic design complements a wide range of accessory styles, allowing shooters to personalize their Taurus 85 to their liking. It would look especially sharp with a quality leather holster.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211
Pros
- The Goncalo Alves wood gives the firearm a classic, attractive appearance.
- The checkered pattern provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
- The absence of finger grooves allows for greater hand placement flexibility.
- Recoil management is improved, enhancing accuracy and control.
- Easy installation with a perfect fit.
Cons
- The wood material is potentially more susceptible to scratches than synthetic alternatives.
- The price point is higher than some basic synthetic grips.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211?
The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211 is perfect for Taurus 85 owners who prioritize enhanced grip, improved recoil management, and a classic aesthetic. It is an excellent upgrade for both recreational shooters and those who carry the Taurus 85 for self-defense. This would be great for competition shooters.
Those who should skip this product are budget-conscious shooters who are primarily concerned with function over form. If you are looking for the cheapest possible grip, or need a very specific grip material (like rubber for maximum recoil absorption), you might want to consider other options. A must-have modification is a quality holster to showcase and protect this beautiful grip.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211
The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211 is a worthwhile upgrade for any Taurus 85 owner seeking improved grip, enhanced recoil control, and a touch of classic style. The price is justified by the quality of the materials, the precise fit, and the noticeable improvement in shooting performance.
I would personally recommend this grip to anyone looking to enhance their Taurus 85 experience. The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo No Finger Groove Checkered 67211 isn’t just an accessory; it’s an investment in better shooting and a more enjoyable range experience. Upgrade your Taurus 85 today and feel the difference!