Let’s Dive into Hogue Colt Single Action Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Cowboy Panels 50860
The Hogue Colt Single Action Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Cowboy Panels 50860 promise to add a touch of classic style and enhanced grip to your Colt Single Action Army revolver. These grips, crafted from Coco Bolo wood, are designed as a drop-in replacement for your factory grips, offering a unique aesthetic and potentially improved handling. Hogue is a well-known name in the firearms accessory world, so expectations are set high for both fit and finish.
I was looking to upgrade the appearance of my well-worn SAA. The original grips, while functional, lacked the character I desired for such a classic firearm. I wanted something that would reflect the history of the gun while also providing a more secure grip.
Upon opening the package, the first thing I noticed was the rich color and grain of the Coco Bolo wood. The grips felt substantial, but perhaps a bit too large in my hand compared to the original factory grips. The finish was smooth, but I immediately noticed the lack of any sort of mechanical retention beyond the grip screw, raising concerns about long-term stability.
I considered several other grip options, including custom-made grips and alternatives from Pachmayr. Ultimately, I chose the Hogue grips for their reputation for quality and the classic look of Coco Bolo. The price was also a factor, as custom grips can be significantly more expensive.
My initial reaction was mixed. The aesthetics were certainly pleasing, but the apparent size discrepancy and lack of secure mounting gave me pause. I was both excited by the potential for a visual upgrade and concerned about whether the grips would perform well under actual use.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Colt Single Action Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Cowboy Panels 50860 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test of the Hogue Coco Bolo Cowboy Panels was at my local outdoor shooting range. I wanted to see how the grips felt during live fire and whether the size difference would impact my accuracy or recoil management. I tested them in relatively dry conditions, with a temperature of around 70 degrees Fahrenheit.
The grips initially felt awkward in my hand. The oversized nature compared to the original grips was noticeable, and I struggled to achieve a comfortable, consistent grip. I had to consciously adjust my hand position to compensate for the added bulk.
After only a few rounds, the grips began to shift slightly under recoil, requiring me to retighten the grip screw. This was a major disappointment and highlighted the inherent weakness of relying solely on screw tension for retention. The user feedback I had read before purchasing, was proving to be correct.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, the Hogue grips have not improved in terms of stability. They continue to shift under recoil, even with the grip screw tightened to the point of almost stripping the threads. The Coco Bolo wood itself shows no signs of wear or cracking, indicating good material quality.
The lack of any inset or mechanical retention makes consistent maintenance a necessity. I find myself constantly checking and tightening the grip screw before and after each shooting session. This is far from ideal, especially for a grip intended for a firearm that might be used in self-defense or hunting situations.
Compared to my previous experience with the factory grips, the Hogue panels are a significant step down in terms of reliability and ease of use. The aesthetic upgrade is undeniable, but the compromised functionality makes it difficult to recommend them without reservation. I had previously enjoyed the solid, confident feel of the original grips.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Colt Single Action Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Cowboy Panels 50860
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hogue is a reputable name in firearms accessories, known for producing a wide range of grips and other components. This reputation initially instilled confidence in the product.
- Color: The grips are finished in Coco Bolo, a rich, reddish-brown hardwood known for its attractive grain patterns. The color is visually appealing and adds a classic touch to the revolver.
- Gun Make: These grips are specifically designed for Colt Single Action Army revolvers. Compatibility is crucial, as grips designed for other firearms will not fit correctly.
- Gun Model: The grips are intended for the Colt Single Action Army (SAA), also known as the Peacemaker. This ensures a proper fit for this iconic revolver.
The choice of Coco Bolo wood is significant for its durability and aesthetic appeal. However, the absence of any mechanical retention mechanism beyond the grip screw is a critical design flaw. This impacts the overall performance and user experience negatively.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Colt Single Action Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Cowboy Panels 50860 offer a visually appealing upgrade to a Colt SAA revolver. However, their performance is significantly hampered by the lack of secure mounting.
The grips’ primary weakness is their tendency to shift under recoil, making it difficult to maintain a consistent grip and impacting accuracy. A tighter fit or some form of mechanical retention would dramatically improve their functionality.
The grips do not meet expectations for a product from a reputable manufacturer like Hogue. While the aesthetics are pleasing, the compromised functionality is a major disappointment.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Hogue grips is generally good, with the Coco Bolo wood being well-finished and aesthetically pleasing. However, the oversized nature of the grips and the lack of secure mounting detract from the overall design.
The grips are not particularly user-friendly due to the constant need for adjustment and retightening. There is a definite learning curve involved in getting used to the altered grip profile and the shifting sensation.
The grips’ increased width, while offering a fuller feel, might not be suitable for shooters with smaller hands. Ergonomics are subjective, but the oversized design presents a potential challenge for some users.
Durability & Maintenance
The Coco Bolo wood appears to be durable and resistant to wear and tear. However, the long-term stability of the grips is questionable due to the constant stress on the grip screw.
Maintenance is relatively simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and application of a wood preservative. However, the need to constantly check and retighten the grip screw adds an extra layer of maintenance.
The absence of mechanical retention might lead to premature wear of the screw threads over time. This could ultimately compromise the grips’ ability to stay in place.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories are included with the Hogue Colt Single Action Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Cowboy Panels 50860. The grips themselves are intended as a direct replacement for the factory grips.
There are no specific customization options available for these grips, other than potentially refinishing or altering the wood. Their primary appeal lies in their aesthetic upgrade.
Compatibility with aftermarket accessories is limited, as these grips are designed solely to replace the factory grips on a Colt SAA. They do not interface with any other components.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Colt Single Action Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Cowboy Panels 50860
Pros
- Visually appealing Coco Bolo wood adds a classic touch to your Colt SAA.
- Well-finished wood provides a smooth and comfortable feel (when not shifting).
- Relatively easy to install (although secure mounting is an issue).
- Hogue name recognition provides some assurance of quality materials.
- Price point is lower than many custom grip options.
Cons
- Grips tend to shift under recoil due to lack of mechanical retention.
- Oversized design may not be comfortable for all users.
- Requires constant monitoring and retightening of the grip screw.
Who Should Buy Hogue Colt Single Action Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Cowboy Panels 50860?
The Hogue Colt Single Action Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Cowboy Panels 50860 might be a good choice for shooters who prioritize aesthetics over absolute functional reliability. If you primarily use your SAA for display or light target shooting and are willing to tolerate occasional adjustments, these grips can add a touch of class.
Shooters who require maximum reliability and a rock-solid grip should skip this product. Those who use their SAA for hunting, competition, or self-defense would be better served by grips with more secure mounting.
A must-have modification for these grips would be to add some form of mechanical retention, such as inletting the frame or using adhesive to secure the panels. Without this, their performance is simply too compromised.
Conclusion on Hogue Colt Single Action Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Cowboy Panels 50860
The Hogue Colt Single Action Handgun Grip Coco Bolo Cowboy Panels 50860 present a mixed bag. While they offer a visually appealing upgrade to the Colt SAA, their lack of secure mounting undermines their functionality and overall value.
At $71.99, the price is not exorbitant, but it is also not justified considering the performance issues. The aesthetic upgrade comes at the cost of reliability, making it a questionable trade-off.
I would personally recommend these grips only with significant reservations. Unless you are prepared to modify them to address the mounting issue, their compromised performance outweighs their visual appeal. Consider exploring other grip options that prioritize both aesthetics and functionality. If you still want to purchase, I strongly suggest factoring in the costs of custom fitting.