First Thoughts on the Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 19x, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 40, 41, 45, 47 (Gen 1, 2 & 5), Black
The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 19x, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 40, 41, 45, 47 (Gen 1, 2 & 5), Black promises a better grip and improved recoil control on a huge range of Glock pistols. Hogue is a respected name, and their grips are known for being a simple, yet effective upgrade.
I’ve always been a proponent of tailoring a firearm to the individual, and the Glock, while reliable, can be a bit blocky for some. My quest for a better grip led me to the Hogue Handall Beavertail. It was a matter of finding something that improved ergonomics without permanently modifying the frame.
Out of the package, the Hogue Handall feels solid. The rubbery texture is immediately appealing, and the beavertail extension looks like it will offer some real support. Compared to Talon Grips or even stippling, the Hogue Handall seemed like the perfect balance of grip enhancement and ease of installation.
I chose the Hogue Handall over others primarily because of the beavertail. It’s a feature I’ve always appreciated on 1911s, and I was eager to see how it translated to the Glock platform. My initial impression was excitement; I was ready to get to the range and see if this simple sleeve could make a significant difference.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 19x, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 40, 41, 45, 47 (Gen 1, 2 & 5), Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first experience with the Hogue Handall Beavertail was at my local outdoor range. I mounted it on my Glock 17, which I regularly use for practice and drills. The grip felt significantly better immediately, providing a more secure and comfortable hold.
I tested it in varying conditions, from a dry, sunny day to a slightly drizzly afternoon. The Cobblestone™ texture proved its worth, providing excellent grip even with slightly wet hands. Installation was simple, requiring only a few minutes.
I did notice initially that the grip required a firm hand to install fully, making sure it’s snug against the frame. There were no real issues, but it was immediately apparent that the Hogue Handall added noticeable thickness to the grip. This could be a positive or negative, depending on hand size.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hogue Handall has held up remarkably well. There’s minimal wear and tear, even after hundreds of rounds fired. The rubber shows no signs of cracking or tearing, maintaining its original shape and texture.
Maintenance is incredibly simple; I just wipe it down with a damp cloth after each range session. Compared to previous grip solutions, like grip tape that wears out quickly, the Hogue Handall offers superior longevity and ease of care. It definitely outperforms any stick-on grip I’ve used.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 19x, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 40, 41, 45, 47 (Gen 1, 2 & 5), Black
Specifications
The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve is made from a durable rubber material. It’s specifically designed to fit Glock models 17, 18, 19x, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 40, 41, 45, and 47 (Gen 1, 2 & 5).
The key feature is the Beavertail™, which cushions the hand during recoil and allows for a higher grip. The Cobblestone™ texture enhances grip, while the finger grooves naturally position the fingers. These specs matter because they directly translate to improved control and comfort during shooting.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve excels at its primary function: enhancing grip and recoil control. The added thickness and texture make the Glock feel more secure in hand, allowing for faster follow-up shots. The beavertail effectively prevents slide bite, which is a common complaint with Glocks for some shooters.
One strength is the enhanced grip, especially in adverse conditions. A weakness is that the added thickness may not be suitable for shooters with smaller hands. Overall, it meets my expectations, delivering on its promise of a more comfortable and controllable shooting experience.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, as expected from Hogue. The rubber material is durable and provides a comfortable, non-slip surface. It adds some weight, but negligibly. The finger grooves are well-placed, contributing to a more natural and secure grip.
The installation process is straightforward, though it requires some effort to slide the sleeve fully onto the frame. There’s virtually no learning curve; once installed, the grip feels intuitive and familiar.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its simple design and robust materials, the Hogue Handall is expected to last for years. The material is resistant to oils, solvents, and temperature changes. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Handall itself doesn’t have accessory attachments, as it is a grip sleeve. It is compatible with most standard Glock accessories, such as lights and lasers, as long as they don’t interfere with the grip area. The grip does not require any modifications to the firearm and is fully reversible.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 19x, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 40, 41, 45, 47 (Gen 1, 2 & 5), Black
Pros
- Significantly improves grip, especially in wet or sweaty conditions.
- The Beavertail™ cushions the hand and prevents slide bite.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Durable construction ensures longevity.
- Affordable price point for a noticeable upgrade.
Cons
- Adds thickness to the grip, which may not be ideal for smaller hands.
- Can be slightly challenging to install initially.
Who Should Buy Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 19x, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 40, 41, 45, 47 (Gen 1, 2 & 5), Black?
The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve is perfect for Glock owners looking to improve their grip and recoil control without permanently modifying their firearm. It’s also excellent for those who experience slide bite or want a more comfortable shooting experience. It’s especially beneficial for competitive shooters and law enforcement professionals.
Those with very small hands or who prefer a very slim grip profile might want to skip this product. There are no must-have accessories, but a proper holster that accommodates the slightly wider grip is recommended.
Conclusion on Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 19x, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 40, 41, 45, 47 (Gen 1, 2 & 5), Black
The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve is a worthwhile upgrade for Glock owners seeking enhanced grip and comfort. At $12.99, the price is absolutely justified, given the noticeable improvement in handling and recoil control.
I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a simple and effective way to improve their Glock. It’s an affordable, durable, and easy-to-install upgrade that can make a real difference on the range or in the field. Go ahead and give your Glock the grip it deserves!