Let’s Dive into Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86835
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86835 is more than just a grip; it’s an investment in control, comfort, and aesthetics. This grip, manufactured by Hogue, is designed specifically for the Ruger Redhawk, a powerhouse of a revolver known for its stopping power and robust build. The grip distinguishes itself with its beautiful Coco Bolo wood, lack of finger grooves for versatile hand placement, the “Big Butt” design for enhanced recoil absorption, and checkered texturing for a secure hold.
Years of wrestling with factory grips that were either too slick, too small, or simply uninspiring led me to this. I needed a grip that could tame the Redhawk’s recoil, provide a confident purchase, and add a touch of class to a working gun.
Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of quality. The Coco Bolo wood was richly colored and impeccably finished, and the checkering was sharp and even. It felt substantial in hand, promising both durability and comfort, exceeding all expectations.
Compared to the standard Ruger Redhawk grips (often a hard rubber or laminated wood), or even aftermarket rubber grips, the Hogue Coco Bolo grip stands out. It’s a blend of form and function that I couldn’t find elsewhere, offering both improved ergonomics and a striking appearance. I chose this particular Hogue grip over other options because of its specific combination of no finger grooves, the “Big Butt” design, and the exquisite Coco Bolo wood, each element crucial to addressing my needs.
My first impression was pure excitement. The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86835 isn’t just a grip; it’s an upgrade, promising a better shooting experience and a more beautiful firearm.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86835 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground was the local shooting range, a familiar environment where I could focus solely on the grip’s performance. I ran a variety of .44 Magnum loads through my Redhawk, ranging from light target rounds to heavier hunting loads. The conditions were relatively dry and mild, perfect for evaluating the grip’s basic functionality.
The grip immediately improved control. The checkered texture provided a secure hold, even with sweaty hands, and the “Big Butt” design noticeably reduced felt recoil. There was virtually no adjustment period; it felt natural and comfortable from the very first shot.
The only slight issue was that the larger grip size changed the balance of the gun slightly. This was easily compensated for with a little practice, but it’s worth noting.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86835 continues to impress. The wood has held up beautifully, showing no signs of cracking or splitting, even after repeated exposure to the elements. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional application of a quality wood preservative is all it takes to keep it looking its best.
Durability has been exceptional. Despite being subjected to hundreds of rounds of .44 Magnum recoil, the grip remains securely mounted and shows minimal wear. It outperforms the factory grips in every way imaginable, providing better control, improved comfort, and a significant aesthetic upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86835
Specifications
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86835 features several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance and user experience.
- Material: Coco Bolo Wood – This dense, exotic hardwood is known for its beauty, durability, and resistance to moisture, making it an ideal choice for a handgun grip.
- Design: No Finger Grooves – This allows for a more versatile grip, accommodating a wider range of hand sizes and shooting styles.
- Shape: “Big Butt” – The enlarged palm swell helps to distribute recoil more evenly across the hand, reducing felt recoil and improving control.
- Texture: Checkered – The precisely cut checkering provides a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.
- Compatibility: Ruger Redhawk – This grip is specifically designed to fit the Ruger Redhawk revolver, ensuring a perfect and secure fit.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the shooter’s ability to control the handgun and manage recoil. The Coco Bolo wood provides a beautiful and durable platform, while the absence of finger grooves allows for a customizable grip. The “Big Butt” design and checkering enhance comfort and control, leading to improved accuracy and reduced fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86835 excels in its primary function: providing a secure, comfortable, and recoil-absorbing grip for the Ruger Redhawk. Accuracy is noticeably improved due to the enhanced control and reduced muzzle flip.
The grip’s strengths lie in its exceptional comfort and control, particularly when shooting heavy loads. There are no real weaknesses to speak of, although some shooters with smaller hands might find the “Big Butt” design a bit too bulky. It far exceeds my expectations, transforming my Redhawk from a somewhat unwieldy beast into a well-balanced and controllable handgun.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue grip’s build quality is outstanding. The Coco Bolo wood is flawlessly finished, and the checkering is precisely executed. The weight feels substantial but not overly heavy, contributing to the overall feeling of quality and durability.
The grip is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no break-in period or special techniques. The absence of finger grooves makes it easy to find a comfortable and secure grip regardless of hand size or shooting style.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the quality of materials and construction, the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86835 should last for many years with proper care. Coco Bolo wood is naturally resistant to wear and tear, and the checkering is unlikely to wear down significantly with normal use.
Maintenance is simple. Wiping the grip down with a soft cloth after each shooting session and applying a quality wood preservative periodically is all that’s needed to keep it in top condition.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86835 is primarily a standalone upgrade, focusing on improving the grip itself. However, the enhanced control it provides can facilitate the use of other accessories, such as more powerful optics or improved triggers.
While the grip itself doesn’t require any specific accessories, a good quality wood preservative is recommended to maintain its appearance and longevity. Its compatibility with the Ruger Redhawk ensures that it won’t interfere with the use of other aftermarket parts designed for the revolver.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86835
Pros
- Provides significantly improved recoil absorption thanks to the “Big Butt” design.
- Offers a highly secure and comfortable grip due to the aggressive checkering and ergonomic shape.
- Enhances the overall aesthetics of the Ruger Redhawk with the beautiful Coco Bolo wood.
- Accommodates a wide range of hand sizes and shooting styles due to the absence of finger grooves.
- Made with high-quality materials and construction, ensuring long-lasting durability.
Cons
- The “Big Butt” design may be too large for shooters with smaller hands.
- Coco Bolo wood requires occasional maintenance to preserve its appearance.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86835?
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86835 is perfect for Ruger Redhawk owners who want to improve control, reduce felt recoil, and enhance the appearance of their revolver. It’s especially well-suited for hunters, competitive shooters, and anyone who frequently shoots heavy loads.
Those with exceptionally small hands might want to consider a grip with a smaller profile. Also, if you prefer a purely utilitarian grip and don’t care about aesthetics, a less expensive rubber grip might suffice.
A quality wood preservative is a must-have accessory to maintain the grip’s beautiful finish.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86835
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86835 is a superb upgrade that delivers on its promises. It provides a tangible improvement in control, recoil absorption, and overall shooting experience, while also adding a touch of elegance to the Ruger Redhawk.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, exceptional craftsmanship, and the significant benefits it provides. I wholeheartedly recommend it to any Ruger Redhawk owner looking to enhance their revolver’s performance and appearance. Upgrade your Redhawk today and experience the difference a quality grip can make!