Let’s Dive into Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645 is a premium aftermarket grip designed specifically for the Ruger Redhawk revolver. Crafted by Hogue, a name synonymous with quality in the firearms accessory world, this grip promises enhanced ergonomics and a touch of elegance to your trusted revolver. This isn’t just a grip; it’s a statement about appreciating both performance and aesthetics in your firearm.
After years of relying on standard factory grips, I sought an upgrade that would improve my grip and recoil control on my Redhawk. The factory grip, while functional, always felt a bit too small and lacked the secure feel I needed for confident shooting. I was specifically looking for a grip that offered finger grooves for a more positive hold and a larger “big butt” design to better fill my hand and mitigate recoil.
Upon receiving the Hogue grip, I was immediately impressed by the rich color and beautiful figuring of the Kingwood. The checkering was sharp and provided excellent traction, while the finger grooves felt perfectly placed for my hand size. The “big butt” design added a noticeable heft to the grip, promising a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience.
I considered grips from Pachmayr and Altamont, but ultimately chose the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645 for its combination of natural wood, finger grooves, and the reputation of Hogue for quality and precision. The Pachmayr grips are excellent for recoil absorption, but I wanted the feel of wood. Altamont’s grips are beautiful, but didn’t offer the exact finger groove and “big butt” configuration I desired.
My first impression was one of excitement. This grip instantly transformed the look and feel of my Redhawk. It felt like a custom upgrade, adding both functionality and a touch of class to a working firearm.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645 at my local shooting range, focusing on .44 Magnum rounds for maximum recoil. The range offered a variety of distances, allowing me to assess grip comfort and control at different target ranges. The weather was dry and sunny, ideal conditions for evaluating the grip’s performance.
The grip performed exceptionally well. The finger grooves provided a secure and consistent hold, even with heavy recoil. The “big butt” design filled my hand perfectly, distributing the recoil more evenly and significantly reducing muzzle flip.
There was a slight acclimation period needed to get used to the larger size of the grip compared to the factory one, however it didn’t take long. The improved control and comfort were immediately noticeable, leading to tighter groupings and more enjoyable shooting sessions. There were no immediate issues or surprises beyond the expected adjustment period.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645 continues to impress. The Kingwood has held up beautifully, with no signs of cracking or splitting. The checkering remains sharp and effective, even after repeated exposure to sweat and solvents.
The grip shows only minor signs of wear, primarily some slight darkening of the wood in areas where my hand makes constant contact. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of a quality wood cleaner keeps it looking its best. The grip outperforms the factory grip in every way.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645
Specifications
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645 is specifically designed for the Ruger Redhawk revolver. It is crafted from beautifully figured Kingwood, known for its strength and attractive grain. The grip features top finger grooves for enhanced ergonomics and a secure hold.
The “big butt” design offers increased surface area for better recoil absorption and a more comfortable fit for larger hands. The grip also features precise checkering for improved traction, even in wet or sweaty conditions. The Hogue grip is designed for easy installation, typically requiring only basic tools and a few minutes to install. These specifications are crucial because they directly contribute to improved handling, recoil control, and overall shooting comfort.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645 drastically improves the overall shooting experience with the Ruger Redhawk. The improved grip and recoil absorption translate directly into better accuracy and control. The grip excels in both comfort and functionality, significantly reducing hand fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
The grip’s strengths are its excellent ergonomics, recoil mitigation, and secure hold. A slight weakness could be the larger size for shooters with smaller hands. The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645 exceeds expectations, turning a good revolver into a great one.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645 exhibits exceptional build quality. The Kingwood is dense and durable, and the grip is perfectly fitted to the Redhawk frame. The weight feels substantial and balanced, contributing to a more stable shooting platform.
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645 is undeniably user-friendly. Installation is straightforward, and the improved ergonomics are immediately apparent. There is no significant learning curve; the grip enhances the shooting experience from the first shot.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645 should last for many years. The Kingwood is naturally resistant to wear and tear, and the Hogue’s reputation for quality is well deserved. Maintenance is simple.
Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional application of wood preservative or cleaner is all that is required to keep the grip in excellent condition. Repair, if needed, would likely involve refinishing or replacing the grip, but the quality construction suggests this would be a rare occurrence.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645 is a standalone accessory and does not require additional accessories for its primary function. However, it complements other Ruger Redhawk accessories such as custom sights, holsters, and ammunition carriers. While the grip itself offers limited customization options beyond its inherent design, its compatibility with the Ruger Redhawk platform allows for integration with various aftermarket upgrades.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645
Pros
- Significantly improved recoil control, especially with magnum loads.
- Enhanced ergonomics and a more secure grip due to finger grooves and checkering.
- Beautiful Kingwood construction adds a touch of elegance to the Redhawk.
- Easy installation and a perfect fit for the Ruger Redhawk frame.
- Durable construction ensures years of reliable use.
Cons
- Larger grip size may not be ideal for shooters with smaller hands.
- The premium Kingwood construction makes it more expensive than synthetic options.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645?
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645 is perfect for Ruger Redhawk owners looking to enhance their shooting experience with improved recoil control and ergonomics. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate the beauty and feel of natural wood. This grip is a great upgrade for hunters, competitive shooters, and anyone who enjoys shooting their Redhawk.
Shooters with very small hands might find the “big butt” design too large. Those prioritizing affordability above all else may want to consider synthetic grip options. A must-have accessory would be a quality wood cleaner/preservative to maintain the Kingwood’s finish.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645 is an exceptional upgrade for any Ruger Redhawk revolver. The price is certainly justified given the quality of the materials, the improved ergonomics, and the enhanced shooting experience. The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86645 elevated my shooting and increased my enjoyment of the Redhawk.
I wholeheartedly recommend this grip to anyone seeking to improve their Redhawk’s performance and appearance. If you value quality, performance, and a touch of elegance, this grip is an investment you won’t regret. Upgrade your Redhawk today and experience the difference a quality grip can make!