The Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos Made a Bold First Impression
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve seen countless aftermarket accessories promising enhanced grip and control. But the Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos caught my attention for its simplicity and promise of improved handling on smaller, often harder-to-grip, automatic pistols. The Hogue name carries weight, known for quality rubber grips, and I was eager to see if this junior version lived up to the reputation. This sleeve aims to provide a more secure and comfortable grip on subcompact and compact pistols, improving control and reducing felt recoil.
What spurred my interest in this product was a persistent issue with my S&W M&P Shield 9mm. Its slim profile, while great for concealment, sometimes felt a bit too slippery, especially during extended range sessions or in less-than-ideal weather. I wanted a non-permanent solution that added grip without significantly increasing the firearm’s overall size.
My initial impression upon unboxing the Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos was positive. The rubber felt substantial and grippy, not cheap or flimsy. The sleeve itself was a simple design, a textured rubber tube with finger grooves and the Hogue logo subtly embossed. There was a slight rubbery smell, which is typical and quickly dissipated.
Comparing it to slip-on grips from Pachmayr and Talon Grips, the Hogue Handall Jr. stood out for its thick, molded rubber construction. Pachmayr often uses a harder rubber, and Talon Grips are primarily adhesive-backed wraps. I chose the Hogue for its promise of a more significant grip enhancement and because I prefer the feel of rubber over the more abrasive texture of some grip tapes. I also liked that the Hogue grip sleeve was a simple, one-piece design without needing to apply any adhesives.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was excited to see if it delivered on its promise of improved grip, but I was also aware that slip-on grips can sometimes be bulky or ill-fitting, leading to a compromised shooting experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos at my local outdoor shooting range on a sunny afternoon. The installation, after a bit of initial struggle (more on that later), was fairly straightforward. I fired approximately 200 rounds through my S&W M&P Shield 9mm with the grip sleeve installed.
The immediate improvement in grip was noticeable. The Hogue grip sleeve filled my hand nicely, providing a more secure and comfortable purchase. Recoil felt slightly reduced, likely due to the added cushioning and improved control. The finger grooves, while not perfectly aligned with my fingers, still offered a significant improvement over the bare grip.
Initially, the installation was a bit challenging. The Hogue Handall Jr. is designed for a snug fit, and getting it onto the Shield required some effort and the use of a heat gun to soften the rubber slightly. I also needed to trim a small portion of the sleeve to accommodate the magazine release button, as mentioned by other users. This process, while not difficult, does require some patience and a sharp knife.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds more rounds fired, the Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of tearing or significant wear, even after repeated installation and removal (I experimented with different trimming configurations). The rubber has retained its grippiness, even after exposure to sweat and cleaning solvents.
Maintenance is simple. I usually wipe it down with a damp cloth after each range session. Occasionally, I’ll use a mild soap and water solution to remove any stubborn grime.
Compared to my previous experiences with other slip-on grips, the Hogue Handall Jr. is far more durable and effective. Grip tapes tend to peel and wear out quickly, while harder rubber grips can be uncomfortable. The Hogue strikes a good balance between comfort, durability, and grip enhancement. It definitely outperforms the stock polymer grip on my Shield and provides a more secure feel than grip tape alternatives.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos
Specifications
The Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos is a precisely molded rubber sleeve designed to enhance grip and comfort on small, automatic pistols.
- Material: Molded rubber.
- Length: Approximately 4 inches.
- Width: Designed for slim-framed pistols.
- Weight: Negligible, adds very little weight to the firearm.
- Features: Finger grooves, textured surface, Hogue logo.
These specifications are important because they dictate the overall fit, feel, and performance of the grip sleeve. The rubber construction provides excellent grip and cushioning, while the finger grooves promote a more natural and secure hand position. The minimal weight ensures that the sleeve doesn’t significantly alter the firearm’s balance or handling characteristics.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos performs its job exceptionally well. It provides a noticeable improvement in grip, reduces felt recoil, and enhances overall control.
Strengths: Excellent grip, comfortable feel, durable construction, easy to install (with some modification).
Weaknesses: Requires trimming for some firearms, can be difficult to install without heat.
The Hogue Handall Jr. meets my expectations. It delivers on its promise of improved grip and control without significantly increasing the firearm’s size.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Handall Jr. features a simple yet effective design. The molded rubber construction provides a comfortable and secure grip, while the finger grooves promote a more natural hand position.
The build quality is excellent. The rubber feels substantial and durable, and the molding is precise. The grip sleeve adds very little weight to the firearm.
There is a slight learning curve associated with the installation process. The tight fit requires some effort and patience, and trimming may be necessary for some firearms.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos is designed for long-term use. The durable rubber construction resists tearing and wear, even after repeated installation and removal.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is sufficient to keep the grip sleeve in good condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos does not come with any accessories. However, it can be used in conjunction with other accessories, such as extended magazines or aftermarket sights.
No customization options are available for the grip sleeve itself, other than trimming for fit.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos
Pros
- Provides a significant improvement in grip and control.
- Reduces felt recoil, enhancing shooting comfort.
- Durable rubber construction ensures long-term use.
- Relatively inexpensive and easily accessible.
- Adds minimal bulk to the firearm, maintaining concealability.
Cons
- Requires trimming for some firearms, which can be a bit tedious.
- Can be difficult to install without using a heat gun.
- Finger grooves may not perfectly align with everyone’s fingers.
Who Should Buy Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos?
The Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos is perfect for:
- Individuals seeking to improve the grip and control of their small, automatic pistols.
- Shooters who experience discomfort or fatigue due to insufficient grip.
- Concealed carry practitioners who want to enhance grip without adding significant bulk.
- Range shooters looking for a more comfortable and controlled shooting experience.
Those who should skip this product:
- Individuals who are satisfied with the stock grip on their firearm.
- Those who prefer more aggressive grip textures, such as stippling.
Must-have accessories or modifications:
- A sharp knife for trimming (if necessary).
- A heat gun or hairdryer for easier installation.
Conclusion on Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos
The Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos is a simple yet effective accessory that delivers on its promise of improved grip and control. The rubber construction is durable and comfortable, and the finger grooves promote a more natural hand position. While some trimming and effort may be required for installation, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks.
The price of $11.49 is more than justified. It is an inexpensive way to significantly enhance the handling and comfort of your small automatic pistol.
I would absolutely recommend the Hogue Handall Jr. Rubber Grip Sleeve Small Autos to anyone looking for an affordable and effective grip enhancement solution. It’s a worthy upgrade for a small investment. If you’re struggling with the grip on your compact or subcompact handgun, give the Hogue Handall Jr. a try. You might be surprised at the difference it makes!