Let’s Dive into Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H
As a seasoned outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’ve handled countless grips, but the Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H immediately caught my eye. Hogue is a trusted name in the industry, known for quality and innovation, and this grip promised to be no exception, albeit in a striking purple package. It’s designed for smaller frame pistols, offering enhanced control and comfort, something I’m always seeking to improve.
My search began with the desire to customize a .22LR pistol for my daughter. She’s shown an interest in shooting, and I wanted to ensure her first experience was positive, comfortable, and safe. A better grip was paramount for achieving this goal.
The Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H arrived in a simple, no-frills package. Initial impressions were good: the rubber felt grippy and the molded finger grooves looked well-defined. The purple color is definitely bold.
I considered several other grip options from Pachmayr and Talon Grips. I opted for the Hogue due to its reputation for durable, comfortable rubber and the fact that it’s a full sleeve rather than just adhesive panels. This seemed like a more secure and reliable solution for a young shooter.
I was cautiously optimistic. The color was a bit louder than I usually prefer, but the potential for improved handling and comfort overshadowed my initial concerns about aesthetics. If it performed as promised, the color would become a non-issue.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H to the Test
First Use Experience
The first range trip was a family affair, and the Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H was immediately put to the test on a Walther PPK/S. The weather was mild, but the grip still provided a noticeable improvement in purchase compared to the factory grips. My daughter found it much easier to hold the pistol steady, which boosted her confidence.
Even with slightly sweaty hands, the Hogue grip maintained a solid feel. There was no slippage or shifting, which is crucial for consistent shooting. Installation was quick and easy, requiring minimal effort to slide it onto the Walther’s frame.
After the first magazine, there were no immediate issues. The grip remained firmly in place, and my daughter reported that it felt significantly better than the bare grip. The finger grooves seemed to fit her hand perfectly, promoting proper trigger control.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H has proven to be quite durable. There are no visible signs of wear or tear, despite being handled frequently. The rubber has maintained its grippy texture, and the color remains vibrant.
Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes to remove dirt and grime. This low-maintenance aspect is a significant plus, especially when dealing with younger shooters who might not be as diligent about cleaning. The grip shows no signs of discoloration or degradation from cleaning solvents.
Compared to previous grip solutions I’ve used on other pistols, the Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H outperforms them in terms of both comfort and durability for this application. The full sleeve design offers a more secure fit and prevents the peeling or shifting that can occur with adhesive grips. It has exceeded my expectations for its intended purpose.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hogue. This name signifies quality and a dedication to providing shooting enthusiasts with reliable, ergonomic grips.
- Color: Purple. While a matter of personal preference, the bold color can add a touch of individuality to a firearm.
- Compatibility: Fits most .22, .25, and .380 pocket pistols, including Walther PPK/S and PP, Smith & Wesson M&P Shield, Glock 42, Colt .380 Gov. and Mustang, Davis, Seecamp, Intratec, Jennings, Beretta and Taurus tip-ups, Raven, Amt, American Arms, AR-15 Rifles, Tomcat, Kahr P40 P9, Kel-Tec P11, and Accu-Tek. This broad compatibility makes it a versatile upgrade for a wide range of firearms.
- Material: Made from a durable, comfortable rubber compound. The specific compound ensures a secure grip even in adverse conditions, while also providing cushioning for reduced felt recoil.
- Design: Features molded finger grooves and a textured surface. These elements work together to provide enhanced control and a more comfortable shooting experience, promoting accuracy and reducing fatigue.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the shooter’s ability to control the firearm, especially in smaller, potentially snappy pistols. The enhanced grip translates to better accuracy and a more enjoyable shooting experience for all skill levels. The Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H is designed to improve handling without significantly altering the overall size or weight of the firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H performs its job admirably. It noticeably enhances the grip, improving control and comfort without adding excessive bulk. Accuracy is improved due to the shooter’s ability to maintain a more consistent hold.
The main strength is the enhanced grip and comfort it provides. The only potential weakness is the color; it might not appeal to all users. Overall, the grip significantly improves the shooting experience.
The grip meets and exceeds expectations. It’s a simple, effective upgrade that noticeably improves the handling of smaller frame pistols. The added comfort and control make it a valuable addition to any shooter’s arsenal.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H is well-designed and comfortable in hand. The rubber material provides a secure and cushioned grip, and the molded finger grooves fit most hand sizes comfortably. The grip’s weight is negligible, so it doesn’t affect the balance of the firearm.
The installation is very user-friendly and requires no special tools or skills. Simply slide the grip over the existing grip, and it’s ready to go. There is virtually no learning curve, making it an ideal upgrade for shooters of all experience levels.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H is built to last. The durable rubber compound resists wear and tear, and it is easy to clean and maintain. With proper care, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is straightforward: simply wipe the grip with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. The rubber material is resistant to most solvents, so it can be cleaned with a variety of cleaning products. The grip’s simple design means there are no small parts to break or lose.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H is a standalone product and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, it’s compatible with a wide range of holsters and other accessories designed for the pistols it fits. This allows shooters to customize their firearm to their specific needs and preferences.
While the grip itself cannot be further customized (besides the color choice), the enhanced grip can improve the performance of other accessories, such as lasers and lights. A more secure grip allows for more consistent activation of these accessories, improving their effectiveness.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H
Pros
- Significantly improves grip and control.
- Easy to install with no special tools required.
- Durable rubber construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Provides comfortable cushioning for reduced felt recoil.
- Affordable price point makes it an accessible upgrade.
Cons
- Purple color might not appeal to all users.
- Limited customization options.
Who Should Buy Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H?
Perfect for: Those looking to improve the grip and control on their small-frame pistol, particularly .22, .25, and .380 caliber firearms. It’s also a great choice for new shooters who need a more secure and comfortable grip to build confidence. Anyone wanting to add a little personality to their firearm with a bold color.
Who should skip this product? Those who prefer a more traditional or subdued look. Also, if you require a grip with adjustable features or a specific texture (other than rubber), this might not be the right choice.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A high-quality holster that accommodates the slightly increased grip size. Otherwise, the Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H is a standalone upgrade that requires no additional modifications.
Conclusion on Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H
Overall, the Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H is a simple yet effective upgrade that significantly improves the grip and control of small-frame pistols. The purple color might not be for everyone, but the enhanced comfort and performance make it a worthwhile investment. Hogue has delivered a quality product that performs as advertised.
The price is definitely justified. For under $13, you’re getting a durable, comfortable grip that can improve your shooting accuracy and confidence. It’s a small price to pay for a noticeable improvement in performance.
I would definitely recommend the Hogue Handall Junior Grip Small Purple 18006H to anyone looking to enhance the grip on their small-frame pistol. Don’t let the color scare you; the performance is what truly matters. Upgrade your grip today and experience the difference!