Let’s Dive into Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350
The Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350 is a meticulously crafted grip designed to enhance both the aesthetics and performance of your Dan Wesson small frame revolver. Manufactured by Hogue, a name synonymous with quality and innovation in firearm accessories, this grip promises a comfortable and secure hold, improving accuracy and control. This specific model stands out due to its unique Pau Ferro wood construction and top finger groove design, offering a blend of classic aesthetics and modern ergonomics.
My aging factory grips on my trusty Dan Wesson .357 were starting to crack and felt slick, especially after a long day on the range. I needed a grip that not only looked good but also provided a more secure and comfortable hold for improved accuracy and recoil management. I considered a few rubberized options, but ultimately wanted something that retained a classic look with improved functionality.
Upon unboxing the Hogue grip, I was immediately struck by the rich color and beautiful grain of the Pau Ferro wood. The weight felt perfect, indicating a solid build quality, and the finger grooves looked perfectly positioned for a comfortable and secure grip. The build quality appeared exceptional, with precise machining and a flawless finish.
Compared to Pachmayr’s rubber grips (known for their tackiness) and some aftermarket G10 grips (which can be overly aggressive), the Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350 seemed to strike the perfect balance between aesthetics, comfort, and functionality. I picked the Hogue grip because I wanted a premium wood grip with finger grooves that would provide a more secure and ergonomic hold, enhancing my shooting experience without sacrificing the classic look of my Dan Wesson. It offers a superior aesthetic and promises a better feel than my previous grips.
My initial reaction was pure excitement. The grip felt like a significant upgrade to my Dan Wesson, and I couldn’t wait to install it and test it at the range. It was a noticeable improvement, both visually and ergonomically.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350 at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was partly cloudy with a slight breeze, typical conditions for late spring. The grip was used on my Dan Wesson .357 Magnum.
The Hogue grip performed admirably even when my hands became slightly sweaty. The finger grooves provided a consistent and reliable grip in different conditions. It proved its value even under duress.
Installation was straightforward and took only a few minutes with the included hardware. The grip felt immediately natural in my hand, with the finger grooves perfectly aligning with my fingers. There were no surprises. The grip enhanced both my control and comfort.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350 continues to impress. I have put approximately 500 rounds through my Dan Wesson with the new grip installed. This includes a mix of .38 Special and .357 Magnum rounds.
The Pau Ferro wood has proven to be remarkably durable, showing no signs of cracking or splitting, even after exposure to varying temperatures and recoil forces. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional application of wood oil have kept the grip looking and feeling like new. It holds up incredibly well.
The grip significantly outperforms the original factory grips in terms of comfort, control, and aesthetics. It has exceeded my expectations in every way. It makes the shooting experience significantly better than before.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350
Specifications
The Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350 is specifically designed for Dan Wesson small frame revolvers. It features a Pau Ferro wood construction, known for its durability and attractive grain. The grip is designed with top finger grooves for enhanced ergonomics.
The choice of Pau Ferro wood ensures a long-lasting and visually appealing grip. The finger grooves promote a more secure and consistent grip, improving accuracy and recoil management. These specs combine to make this a great grip.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350 excels in providing a secure and comfortable grip. This results in improved accuracy and control, particularly during rapid firing. It does its job well.
The grip’s primary strength lies in its ergonomic design and secure hold. A potential weakness could be that the wood, while durable, may not offer the same level of shock absorption as rubber grips. The grip meets and exceeds expectations for aesthetic and functional value.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350 is exceptional, with precision machining and a flawless finish. The Pau Ferro wood provides a comfortable and warm feel in hand. It feels like a custom-made product.
The grip is incredibly user-friendly with a straightforward installation process. The finger grooves naturally fit the hand, requiring no adjustment period. It’s very intuitive to install and use.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350 is built to last, with the Pau Ferro wood being highly resistant to wear and tear. With proper care, including regular cleaning and occasional oiling, the grip should last for many years. Durability is a key strength.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only a soft cloth and occasional wood oil. Repair is unlikely to be needed, but replacement parts could be sourced from Hogue if necessary. Maintenance is very straightforward.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350 does not come with additional accessories, focusing solely on the grip itself. Customization options are limited to the natural variations in the wood grain and color of the Pau Ferro. A grip is already a customization.
The grip is compatible with all standard Dan Wesson small frame revolvers, making it a versatile upgrade. Other Hogue grips and aftermarket grips may offer different materials and textures, but this specific model stands out for its Pau Ferro wood and finger groove design. This grip provides a significant improvement over the stock offering.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350
Pros
- Enhanced Grip & Control: The finger grooves provide a secure and comfortable hold, improving accuracy and recoil management.
- Premium Aesthetics: The Pau Ferro wood offers a beautiful and classic look, enhancing the overall appearance of the firearm.
- High-Quality Build: Hogue is known for its quality, and this grip is no exception, featuring precision machining and a durable construction.
- Easy Installation: Installation is straightforward and requires no specialized tools or gunsmithing skills.
- Improved Shooting Experience: The ergonomic design significantly enhances the shooting experience, making it more comfortable and enjoyable.
Cons
- Wood is less shock absorbent than rubber.
- Wood requires more cleaning than other grips.
Who Should Buy Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350?
This Hogue grip is perfect for Dan Wesson small frame revolver owners looking to upgrade their firearm with a combination of improved ergonomics and classic aesthetics. It is ideal for shooters who value a secure and comfortable grip, as well as those who appreciate the beauty and feel of natural wood. It is perfect for range shooters and recreational shooters.
This grip may not be ideal for those who prioritize maximum shock absorption or prefer the feel of rubber or synthetic materials. Those looking for aggressive texturing may also want to look elsewhere. It’s not for those who prefer synthetic grips.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality wood oil for maintaining the grip’s finish and preventing it from drying out. A proper cleaning kit is also a good investment to maintain the grip.
Conclusion on Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350
The Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350 is a fantastic upgrade that significantly enhances both the performance and aesthetics of your Dan Wesson small frame revolver. Its well-designed finger grooves provide a secure and comfortable grip, resulting in improved accuracy and control, while the beautiful Pau Ferro wood adds a touch of classic elegance. It offers a huge value add.
At $79.99, the price is justified given the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and the tangible improvements in shooting experience. It is a worthwhile investment that will last for years. It’s worth every penny.
I would highly recommend the Hogue Dan Wesson Handgun Grip Sm. Frame Pau Ferro Top Finger Groove 57350 to any Dan Wesson owner looking to upgrade their grip. Upgrade your Dan Wesson today and experience the difference!