Let’s Dive into Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Stripe/Cap 66220
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Stripe/Cap 66220 is a premium aftermarket grip designed to enhance the feel and control of Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with a square butt configuration. Manufactured by Hogue, a respected name in firearm accessories, this grip boasts a beautiful Goncalo Alves wood construction with a striking stripe pattern and a capped bottom. Its purpose is to improve ergonomics, reduce felt recoil, and provide a more secure and comfortable hold.
I’ve always believed that a handgun is an extension of the shooter’s hand, and a proper grip is paramount for accuracy and control. After years of struggling with the factory grips on my Taurus Model 66, which felt slick and offered minimal purchase, I knew it was time for an upgrade. The Hogue grip caught my eye for its combination of aesthetics and promises of enhanced handling, a welcome departure from purely functional, but often uninspired, synthetic options.
Upon unboxing the grip, I was immediately impressed by the quality of the Goncalo Alves wood. The stripe pattern is subtle yet elegant, and the finish is smooth and polished. The grip felt substantial in my hand, with a noticeable weight and density that inspired confidence, and the overall build quality felt robust and well-engineered.
Compared to Pachmayr’s rubber grips and Altamont’s laminated wood options, the Hogue grip stood out due to its unique wood selection and capped design. I appreciated the classic look and feel of the wood over the utilitarian rubber, while the capped bottom offered a more refined aesthetic than the Altamont grips I considered. I picked this grip over others because I wanted the balance of enhanced functionality and traditional aesthetics.
My first impression was one of excitement and anticipation. This grip felt like a significant upgrade that could potentially transform the shooting experience with my Taurus revolver. If it performed as well as it looked and felt, I knew I’d be satisfied.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Stripe/Cap 66220 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Stripe/Cap 66220 at my local shooting range. The weather was mild, with a slight breeze, creating ideal conditions for evaluating the grip’s performance. The grip was installed on my Taurus Model 66, chambered in .357 Magnum.
The grip proved to be exceptionally comfortable during live fire exercises. The improved ergonomics and enhanced grip texture helped to mitigate the effects of recoil from the .357 Magnum rounds, promoting better control and accuracy. The improved control was noticeable, especially during rapid-fire drills.
The installation was simple and straightforward, and no special tools were needed, the grip fit snugly and securely onto the frame. There were no significant issues or surprises encountered during the initial use, only a profound sense of satisfaction.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Stripe/Cap 66220 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear, despite numerous trips to the range. The wood finish remains vibrant and unblemished.
The grip material is easy to clean and maintain. A simple wipe down with a clean cloth is sufficient to remove any dirt or residue. The grip has consistently improved my shooting experience and noticeably reduced recoil.
Compared to my previous experiences with factory grips, the Hogue grip is a significant improvement. The enhanced ergonomics and improved control have allowed me to shoot more accurately and comfortably for extended periods. It has exceeded my expectations and has become an indispensable addition to my revolver.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Stripe/Cap 66220
Specifications
Manufacturer: Hogue.
Gun Make: Taurus.
Color: Goncalo Alves with Stripe.
Material: Goncalo Alves Hardwood.
Fit: Taurus Medium & Large Frame Revolvers with Square Butt.
Configuration: Capped Bottom.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The wood construction offers both aesthetic appeal and functional benefits, providing a naturally grippy surface that improves control. The capped bottom design adds a touch of elegance and also protects the bottom of the grip from impacts.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Stripe/Cap 66220 significantly enhances the handgun’s functionality. It offers superior recoil absorption and greatly enhances grip. This promotes quicker target acquisition and improved accuracy.
The grip’s strengths lie in its comfortable ergonomics, secure fit, and attractive design. A potential weakness is that the wood finish may be susceptible to scratches or dings if not properly cared for. Overall, it meets and exceeds my expectations for an aftermarket grip.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is exceptional, with the Goncalo Alves wood feeling solid and well-crafted. The grip fits perfectly in my hand and provides a natural and comfortable feel, the checkering on the grip further enhances the shooter’s hold. The grip feels balanced in hand and provides a very comfortable shooting experience.
The grip is exceptionally user-friendly. Installation is simple, and the ergonomic design requires no adjustment period. The grip is a significant improvement over factory grips.
Durability & Maintenance
The grip is made from durable materials that are designed to withstand regular use. With proper care, the grip should last for many years. Cleaning and maintenance are straightforward, requiring only a simple wipe down with a soft cloth.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Stripe/Cap 66220 is a standalone product and does not include any additional accessories. However, the grip can be paired with other accessories, such as speed loaders and custom holsters. The grip may also be compatible with aftermarket medallions for further customization.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Stripe/Cap 66220Pros
- Superior ergonomics for improved comfort and control.
- Beautiful Goncalo Alves wood construction with a unique stripe pattern.
- Enhanced recoil absorption for reduced hand fatigue.
- Secure fit and easy installation.
- The capped bottom adds a touch of elegance and protects the grip.
Cons
- The wood finish may be susceptible to scratches if not properly cared for.
- Price point is higher than some synthetic grip options.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Stripe/Cap 66220?
Pros
- Superior ergonomics for improved comfort and control.
- Beautiful Goncalo Alves wood construction with a unique stripe pattern.
- Enhanced recoil absorption for reduced hand fatigue.
- Secure fit and easy installation.
- The capped bottom adds a touch of elegance and protects the grip.
Cons
- The wood finish may be susceptible to scratches if not properly cared for.
- Price point is higher than some synthetic grip options.
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Stripe/Cap 66220 is perfect for handgun owners seeking improved ergonomics, enhanced control, and a touch of classic elegance. It will greatly improve shooting accuracy and stability. This grip is an excellent choice for recreational shooters, handgun enthusiasts, and those looking to upgrade the feel of their Taurus revolvers.
Those who prefer synthetic grips for maximum durability in harsh environments may want to skip this product. Also, shooters on a very tight budget may find the price point prohibitive. A must-have modification would be a custom holster that accommodates the larger grip profile, though it may not be necessary.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Stripe/Cap 66220
Overall, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Stripe/Cap 66220 is a worthwhile investment for any Taurus revolver owner seeking improved ergonomics, enhanced control, and a touch of elegance. It’s a well-crafted product that combines form and function seamlessly. The Hogue grip is worth every penny.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, superior craftsmanship, and noticeable improvement in shooting performance. I wholeheartedly recommend this product to anyone looking to upgrade their Taurus revolver. You can’t go wrong with this grip.
Treat yourself to a grip that not only enhances your shooting ability but also elevates the look of your firearm. Upgrade your grip today.
