Let’s Dive into Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 66301
Revolvers hold a special place in the hearts of many shooters, myself included. There’s something undeniably classic about their simplicity and reliability, and customizing them can be a real labor of love. The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 66301 aims to elevate that experience, promising both improved aesthetics and enhanced handling for Taurus revolvers with medium and large square butt frames.
My factory grips on my Taurus Model 66 were functional, but frankly, they lacked character and felt a bit slippery, especially during sweaty summer range sessions. I needed something that offered a more secure grip and added a touch of elegance to my trusty revolver, and I was seeking the timeless look of wood. After researching numerous options, the Hogue grips stood out due to their reputation for quality and the stunning Pau Ferro wood.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed by the rich, warm tones of the Pau Ferro wood and the crispness of the checkered pattern. The grips felt substantial and well-made, a clear step up from the original rubber grips. The checkered texture appeared aggressive enough to provide a secure hold without being abrasive.
I considered alternatives like Pachmayr rubber grips and some aftermarket laminate options. However, Pachmayr, while functional, lacked the classic look I desired, and many laminate grips seemed prone to chipping. The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 66301 appeared to offer the best of both worlds: beauty and functionality.
My first impression was one of excitement mixed with slight apprehension. They were absolutely beautiful, and I couldn’t wait to install them. I also had a slight concern about the fit, based on some user feedback about revolver grips sometimes needing a little extra attention during installation.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 66301 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 66301 primarily at my local outdoor shooting range. The range offers a variety of shooting distances and scenarios, making it ideal for evaluating handgun grips. I tested with .38 Special and .357 Magnum ammunition to gauge the grip’s performance with different recoil levels.
The Pau Ferro wood performed admirably even in moderately humid conditions. The checkering provided a surprisingly secure grip, preventing any slippage during rapid firing strings. Even with the more potent .357 Magnum rounds, the revolver felt comfortable and controllable in my hand.
Installation, as mentioned by others, wasn’t completely drop-in. I did need to carefully shave a tiny amount of wood from the inner portion of one grip panel to achieve a flush fit. However, a little patience and a sharp utility knife made short work of the adjustment.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 66301 grips have held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of cracking or splitting, and the checkered pattern remains sharp and effective. Regular cleaning with a slightly damp cloth and occasional application of a quality wood furniture polish have kept them looking like new.
The grips have proven to be incredibly durable. Despite being exposed to heat, cold, and occasional bumps in my range bag, they still look fantastic. They require very little maintenance, only needing a wipe down after range sessions to remove powder residue.
The Hogue grips dramatically outperform the factory rubber grips in both comfort and control. The improved grip and recoil absorption make extended shooting sessions far more enjoyable and accurate. They are a significant upgrade in overall shooting experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 66301
Specifications
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 66301 is specifically designed for Taurus revolvers with medium and large square butt frames. The grips are crafted from genuine Pau Ferro hardwood, known for its strength, beauty, and resistance to moisture. Each grip panel features a precisely cut checkered pattern for enhanced grip and control.
The key specifications are: Genuine Pau Ferro wood construction, checkered pattern for superior grip, designed for Taurus medium and large square butt frames, and a weight of approximately 4 ounces. The Pau Ferro wood provides both durability and an attractive aesthetic, making it a worthwhile investment. The checkered pattern is critical for maintaining a secure grip, especially in challenging conditions.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the feel, function, and longevity of the grips. The quality of the wood ensures that the grips can withstand the rigors of regular use. The precise checkering provides exceptional grip, leading to improved accuracy and control.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 66301 grips excel in both performance and functionality. The checkered texture provides a secure and comfortable grip, significantly enhancing recoil control and accuracy. The fit, once adjusted, is snug and secure.
The grips’ primary strength lies in their ability to provide a superior grip compared to factory options. One potential improvement would be to offer a more precise drop-in fit, eliminating the need for minor adjustments. Overall, these grips meet and exceed my expectations for enhanced handling and aesthetics.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue grips boast a classic and ergonomic design that complements the appearance of Taurus revolvers. The Pau Ferro wood provides a warm, natural feel in the hand. The checkered pattern isn’t just aesthetically pleasing; it actively enhances grip.
The build quality is excellent, with the grips feeling solid and well-made. There is a slight learning curve for installation, but once fitted, the grips feel like a natural extension of the revolver. The ergonomic design contributes significantly to comfortable and controlled shooting.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the quality of the Pau Ferro wood and the precision of the checkering, these grips are built to last. With proper care, they should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is simple, requiring only occasional cleaning and polishing to maintain their beauty and functionality.
Easy maintenance adds to the long-term value of these grips. The Hogue grips are a worthwhile investment that can enhance the overall shooting experience. They will likely last longer than the handgun itself.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 66301 grips themselves don’t require any additional accessories. However, they enhance the overall shooting experience and make other accessories, such as a quality holster, even more valuable.
While the grips are not customizable in terms of interchangeable parts, the Pau Ferro wood can be treated with different finishes to achieve a personalized look. The grips are also compatible with speed loaders and other accessories designed for Taurus revolvers. Compatibility with standard revolver accessories enhances their practicality.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 66301
Pros
- Stunning Aesthetics: The Pau Ferro wood adds a touch of elegance and class to any Taurus revolver.
- Enhanced Grip: The checkered pattern provides a secure and comfortable hold, even in wet or sweaty conditions.
- Improved Recoil Control: The grips significantly reduce felt recoil, allowing for more accurate and comfortable shooting.
- Durable Construction: The high-quality Pau Ferro wood ensures long-lasting performance.
- Relatively Easy Installation: Even with minor adjustments, the installation process is straightforward.
Cons
- May require minor fitting: Some users may need to shave or sand the inside of the grips for a perfect fit.
- Pau Ferro color variation: Wood grain and color can vary from piece to piece.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 66301?
These grips are perfect for Taurus revolver owners who want to upgrade their handgun’s aesthetics and improve their grip. They are also a great choice for shooters who want a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience. This upgrade is ideal for anyone who wants to improve the look and feel of their Taurus revolver.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who are unwilling to make minor fitting adjustments or prefer the feel of rubber grips. Shooters who prioritize purely utilitarian function over aesthetics might prefer cheaper, purely functional options.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality set of gunsmithing tools. These tools will help with installation. A soft cloth and good quality furniture polish is also recommended for routine maintenance.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 66301
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 66301 is a worthwhile upgrade for Taurus revolver owners. They offer a significant improvement in both aesthetics and functionality. The price of $89.99 is justified considering the quality of the materials and the enhanced shooting experience.
I would absolutely recommend these grips to anyone looking to personalize and improve their Taurus revolver. Despite the need for minor fitting, the Hogue grips deliver exceptional value and performance. They are a fantastic way to enhance the look and feel of your firearm. Invest in a set today and experience the difference!