First Thoughts on the North American Arms Long Rifle Boot Grip Natural Rosewood for NAA Mini
The North American Arms Long Rifle Boot Grip Natural Rosewood for NAA Mini promises an enhanced grip and aesthetic upgrade for your diminutive .22 LR revolver. North American Arms (NAA) revolvers are known for their ultra-compact size, making them ideal for deep concealment or as a last-ditch backup. Often, the factory grips on these little guns leave something to be desired in terms of both comfort and control.
As someone who values both functionality and aesthetics in my firearms, I was particularly interested in seeing how these rosewood boot grips would improve the handling and appearance of my own NAA Long Rifle. I was hoping for something that would offer a more secure purchase without sacrificing the inherent concealability of the mini-revolver.
Upon receiving the grips, I was immediately struck by the richness of the rosewood. The promise of a unique grain pattern adds a touch of individuality to each set. I’d considered other grip options, including the rubber grips offered by NAA and even some custom-made Micarta grips, but the allure of natural rosewood proved too strong to resist. The folding holster grip was also a consideration.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited by the potential for improved ergonomics and aesthetics. I was also slightly wary given the small size of the grip relative to my typically larger preferences, after all, a user mentioned that they were not large enough for their hands.
Real-World Testing: Putting North American Arms Long Rifle Boot Grip Natural Rosewood for NAA Mini to the Test
First Use Experience
My first outing with the North American Arms Long Rifle Boot Grip Natural Rosewood for NAA Mini was at my local indoor range. The range environment allowed me to focus on grip and handling without the distractions of weather or terrain. I also wanted to test it out during a concealed carry workout simulation.
The difference in feel compared to the factory grips was immediately noticeable. The slightly larger size of the boot grip provided a more substantial purchase, and the rosewood felt smooth and secure in my hand. The ergonomics of the grip, combined with the size of the revolver, made the experience more controllable.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of carrying and using the North American Arms Long Rifle Boot Grip Natural Rosewood for NAA Mini, I’ve developed a solid understanding of its strengths and weaknesses. The rosewood has held up surprisingly well to daily carry, showing minimal signs of wear despite rubbing against clothing and other gear. The grips look beautiful still, no chips or cracks to speak of!
Maintaining the grips is incredibly simple. A quick wipe down with a slightly damp cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove any dirt or grime. This contrasts with the factory grips, which are made of a less refined plastic.
Compared to my previous experience with the factory grips, the rosewood boot grips are a significant improvement. They offer a better grip, improved aesthetics, and a more comfortable shooting experience. The overall shooting accuracy has improved too.
Breaking Down the Features of North American Arms Long Rifle Boot Grip Natural Rosewood for NAA Mini
Specifications
Type: Boot Grip. The boot grip design provides a slightly extended profile compared to the factory grips, offering a more substantial area to hold onto.
Model: Long Rifle Boot Grip. This grip is specifically designed for NAA‘s .22 Long Rifle mini-revolvers, ensuring a proper fit and function.
Finish: Laminated. The laminated rosewood finish offers both durability and a visually appealing aesthetic, showcasing the natural grain of the wood.
Material: Rosewood. Rosewood is a classic grip material known for its beauty, durability, and comfortable feel in the hand.
It provides a more secure purchase compared to slick plastic or metal grips, while the laminated finish provides a durable and attractive appearance.
Performance & Functionality
The North American Arms Long Rifle Boot Grip Natural Rosewood for NAA Mini greatly improves the handling and control of the tiny revolver. The added purchase allows for a firmer grip, leading to improved accuracy and reduced felt recoil, although the .22 LR already has minimal recoil. The comfort during extended shooting sessions has also noticeably improved.
The main strength is the improved ergonomics. The weakness is that they may still be too small for some users with very large hands as evidenced by the single user review. It definitely meets my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the North American Arms Long Rifle Boot Grip Natural Rosewood for NAA Mini is excellent. The rosewood feels solid and well-finished, and the grips fit snugly onto the frame of the revolver. The slightly increased size of the grip fills the hand better than the factory grips, providing a more comfortable and secure feel.
There is no learning curve. Installation is simple and straightforward, requiring only a few minutes and a screwdriver.
Durability & Maintenance
The laminated rosewood construction should ensure lasting durability. The finish protects the wood from moisture and wear. Maintenance is minimal.
Accessories and Customization Options
The grips themselves are the accessory. There are no included extras. However, different wood finishes could be selected.
Pros and Cons of North American Arms Long Rifle Boot Grip Natural Rosewood for NAA Mini
Pros
- Improved Grip and Control: The boot grip design offers a more substantial and secure purchase on the small NAA revolver.
- Enhanced Aesthetics: The natural rosewood provides a classic and attractive appearance, upgrading the look of the firearm.
- Easy Installation: The grips are simple to install, requiring minimal tools or expertise.
- Increased Comfort: The larger grip fills the hand better, providing a more comfortable shooting experience.
- Durable Construction: The laminated rosewood finish offers both beauty and long-lasting durability.
Cons
- May be too small for users with very large hands.
- Natural wood grain variation means grips won’t be exactly as pictured.
Who Should Buy North American Arms Long Rifle Boot Grip Natural Rosewood for NAA Mini?
The North American Arms Long Rifle Boot Grip Natural Rosewood for NAA Mini is perfect for NAA Long Rifle owners seeking improved grip and aesthetics. It’s also ideal for those who find the factory grips too small or uncomfortable. This would be a good upgrade for concealed carry enthusiasts looking to enhance the handling and appearance of their backup firearm.
Those with exceptionally large hands might find the boot grip still too small. People who prefer synthetic materials over natural wood might want to consider other options. A folding holster grip might be a worthwhile modification to consider with or without this product.
Conclusion on North American Arms Long Rifle Boot Grip Natural Rosewood for NAA Mini
The North American Arms Long Rifle Boot Grip Natural Rosewood for NAA Mini is a worthwhile upgrade for owners of NAA .22 LR mini-revolvers. The price is justified, it represents a good value for the money spent. It enhances both the functionality and aesthetics of the firearm.
I would personally recommend it to anyone looking to improve the grip and appearance of their NAA Long Rifle. If you’re seeking a simple and effective way to personalize your mini-revolver and enhance its handling, give these rosewood boot grips a try!