The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 37, 40, 41 (Gen 3 & 4), Black Made a Bold First Impression
As a seasoned tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless modifications and accessories flood the market promising improved performance. The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 37, 40, 41 (Gen 3 & 4), Black specifically caught my eye due to Hogue’s reputation for quality and the promise of enhanced grip and recoil control at an incredibly accessible price point.
My search for the perfect Glock grip has been ongoing. The factory Glock grip, while functional, often feels a bit blocky and lacks the ergonomic refinements many shooters crave. I’ve tried stippling, grip tape, and even aftermarket frames, but finding a solution that’s both effective and reversible has been a challenge.
Upon receiving the Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve, I immediately noticed the quality of the rubber material. It felt durable and pliable, with Hogue’s signature Cobblestone™ texture providing a reassuringly grippy surface. Installation was surprisingly simple, slipping snugly over the Glock’s frame and conforming to its contours.
Compared to a complete frame replacement, the Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve offers a far more affordable and less permanent solution. Grip tape, while cheap, lacks the molded ergonomics and can become slippery with sweat or moisture. I chose this product hoping for a significant improvement in grip comfort and control without the commitment of a full modification.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The grip felt good in hand, and the beavertail seemed like a worthwhile addition, but I was eager to see how it would perform under live fire. I was excited by the potential, hoping the Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve could truly transform the Glock’s handling characteristics.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 37, 40, 41 (Gen 3 & 4), Black to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range session with the Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve installed on my Glock 17 was a revelation. The Cobblestone™ texture provided a secure grip, even with slightly sweaty hands after running drills in the summer heat. The enhanced grip immediately improved my control and accuracy.
I tested the grip sleeve in various conditions, from dry and sunny to a slightly drizzly afternoon. The rubber material maintained its tackiness even when wet, providing a consistent grip regardless of the weather. There was no noticeable slippage or change in the feel of the grip, even when my hands were damp.
The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve required virtually no break-in period. It felt natural and comfortable from the first shot, quickly becoming an extension of my hand. The finger grooves intuitively positioned my fingers for an optimal grip, leading to improved consistency and reduced fatigue.
The only initial issue I noted was a slight tendency for the grip to shift upwards after prolonged rapid firing. This was easily corrected with a quick adjustment, but it was something I kept an eye on throughout the testing process. I found this to be less of an issue on the Glock 20, likely due to the slightly wider frame providing a tighter fit.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve has proven to be exceptionally durable. There are no signs of tearing or excessive wear, even after hundreds of rounds downrange. The thermoplastic elastomer material seems to be holding up admirably.
The grip sleeve has shown no significant signs of wear and tear. The Cobblestone™ texture remains intact and grippy, and the beavertail continues to provide excellent recoil cushioning. The material hasn’t hardened or become brittle, even after exposure to various temperatures and cleaning solvents.
Maintenance is incredibly simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. I occasionally use a mild cleaner to remove any accumulated oils or residue, but overall, the Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve requires minimal upkeep. The material resists absorbing oils and chemicals, making cleaning easy.
Compared to my previous experiences with grip tape, the Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve is a clear winner. It provides a far more comfortable and secure grip, requires less maintenance, and shows no signs of peeling or degradation. The enhanced recoil control and improved ergonomics make it a worthwhile upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 37, 40, 41 (Gen 3 & 4), Black
Specifications
The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 37, 40, 41 (Gen 3 & 4), Black is designed to fit Glock models 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 37, 40, and 41 (Gen 3 & 4). The sleeve is made from a durable thermoplastic elastomer and features gentle palm swells, finger grooves, and Hogue’s signature Cobblestone™ pattern.
The sleeve’s dimensions are approximately 4.5 inches in length, 1.5 inches in width, and 1 inch in thickness, adding minimal bulk to the firearm. The rubber material provides excellent shock absorption, while the beavertail cushions the hand during recoil. The tight fit and textured surface contribute to enhanced grip and control.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the grip’s comfort, functionality, and durability. The thermoplastic elastomer ensures long-lasting performance, while the ergonomic design promotes a more natural and secure grip. The beavertail helps mitigate recoil and prevents slide bite, increasing shooting comfort.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve excels at enhancing grip and recoil control. The textured surface and ergonomic design work together to provide a secure and comfortable hold, even during rapid firing. The beavertail effectively cushions the hand and prevents slide bite, allowing for a higher grip and improved control.
The sleeve’s primary strength lies in its ability to significantly improve the Glock’s ergonomics. The enhanced grip reduces felt recoil and muzzle flip, leading to faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy. The finger grooves promote a more consistent grip, while the Cobblestone™ texture ensures a secure hold.
One minor weakness is the previously mentioned tendency for the grip to shift slightly during prolonged rapid firing. This is easily corrected, but it’s a factor to consider. Overall, the Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve meets and exceeds expectations, providing a noticeable improvement in grip and control.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve’s design is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The rubber material provides excellent shock absorption, while the ergonomic design promotes a more natural and secure grip. The sleeve adds minimal bulk to the firearm, maintaining its concealability and balance.
The build quality is excellent, with the thermoplastic elastomer feeling durable and long-lasting. The sleeve is lightweight, adding minimal weight to the firearm. The comfortable grip and intuitive design make it a user-friendly accessory, requiring no special tools or skills to install.
The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve requires virtually no learning curve. It’s easy to install and provides an immediate improvement in grip and control. The ergonomic design promotes a more natural and comfortable shooting experience.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve is designed for long-lasting performance. The thermoplastic elastomer material is resistant to wear, tear, and chemical exposure. The textured surface is unlikely to peel or degrade, even after prolonged use.
The sleeve is easy to maintain and repair. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove any dirt or grime. Minor tears or abrasions can often be repaired with a flexible adhesive. The simplicity of the design contributes to its overall durability and ease of maintenance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve is a standalone accessory and does not come with additional accessories. It is compatible with most Glock holsters, although some minor modifications may be required for a perfect fit. The grip sleeve can be used in conjunction with other accessories, such as extended magazine releases and aftermarket sights.
While the Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve itself does not offer extensive customization options, it can be used as a foundation for further enhancements. Shooters can customize their Glock with aftermarket triggers, sights, and other accessories to create a personalized firearm. The Hogue grip sleeve provides a solid base for these modifications.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 37, 40, 41 (Gen 3 & 4), Black
Pros
- Significantly enhances grip and control: The Cobblestone™ texture and finger grooves provide a secure and comfortable hold, improving accuracy and reducing felt recoil.
- Beavertail cushions the hand and prevents slide bite: Allows for a higher grip and improved recoil management, increasing shooting comfort.
- Durable thermoplastic elastomer material: Resists wear, tear, and chemical exposure, ensuring long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install and maintain: Requires no special tools or skills to install and can be cleaned with a damp cloth.
- Affordable and effective upgrade: Provides a significant improvement in Glock ergonomics at a fraction of the cost of a complete frame replacement.
Cons
- Slight tendency to shift upwards during prolonged rapid firing (easily corrected).
- May require minor holster modifications for a perfect fit.
Who Should Buy Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 37, 40, 41 (Gen 3 & 4), Black?
The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve is perfect for Glock owners looking to improve their firearm’s ergonomics and recoil control. This includes recreational shooters, competitive shooters, law enforcement officers, and anyone who carries a Glock for self-defense. Those who find the factory Glock grip uncomfortable or lacking in texture will particularly benefit.
Individuals seeking a permanent or highly customized grip solution might prefer a complete frame replacement or custom stippling. Shooters with very small hands may find the added thickness of the grip sleeve uncomfortable. Those unwilling to potentially modify their existing holster should also proceed with caution.
Must-have accessories for use with the Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve include a quality holster that accommodates the slightly increased grip size. A thorough cleaning and lubrication of the firearm’s internals will further enhance performance and reliability. Consider an extended magazine release for easier magazine changes.
Conclusion on Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 37, 40, 41 (Gen 3 & 4), Black
The Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve For Glock 17, 18, 20, 21, 22, 24, 31, 34, 35, 37, 40, 41 (Gen 3 & 4), Black is an exceptional value. For a mere $12.99, it offers a significant improvement in grip, comfort, and recoil control. It transforms the handling characteristics of a Glock without requiring permanent modifications or a substantial investment.
The price is more than justified by the enhanced performance and improved shooting experience. The durable construction and easy maintenance make it a worthwhile addition to any Glock owner’s arsenal. It’s a fantastic upgrade that punches far above its weight class.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve to anyone looking to improve their Glock’s ergonomics and handling. It’s a simple, effective, and affordable upgrade that delivers noticeable results. Don’t settle for the factory grip – experience the difference a Hogue Handall Beavertail Grip Sleeve can make!