Let’s Dive into Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624 is not just an accessory; it’s a statement. This grip promises to enhance both the aesthetic appeal and functional performance of your Ruger Redhawk revolver. Hogue is a well-respected name in the firearms accessory world, known for quality and innovation, and this grip seems poised to continue that legacy.
My factory grips on my Redhawk were functional, but lacked character and felt somewhat slippery during extended shooting sessions. I wanted a grip that provided a more secure hold, improved recoil absorption, and also added a touch of class to my revolver. I was looking for something beyond basic functionality; something that enhanced both the grip and the gun’s appearance.
Upon receiving the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624, I was immediately impressed by the richness and depth of the Kingwood. The wood grain was stunning, and the grip felt solid and substantial in my hand. It’s clear that Hogue uses quality materials and pays attention to detail.
I considered Pachmayr grips for their recoil absorption and the Altamont grips for their attractive designs. I chose the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624 because I wanted a balance of aesthetics and improved handling, something Kingwood seemed to promise. The “Big Butt” design seemed like it would fill my hand better.
My first impression was excitement mixed with anticipation. I was eager to install it on my Redhawk and see how it felt at the range. It looked like a serious upgrade and I was ready to test it out.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first range trip with the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624 was at my local outdoor range, under typical sunny conditions. I focused on slow-fire accuracy drills and rapid-fire recoil management exercises. I also took it with me while hunting feral hogs in South Texas, encountering dusty conditions.
The grip proved exceptionally comfortable, even after firing numerous rounds of .44 Magnum. The Kingwood provided a secure and confident hold, even with slightly sweaty hands. There were no initial issues and the grip performed exactly as I had hoped.
Installing the grip was straightforward, and I didn’t encounter any problems fitting it to my Redhawk frame. The larger size of the “Big Butt” design was immediately noticeable, filling my hand more completely. This greatly improved control.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624 continues to perform admirably. The Kingwood has retained its beauty and structural integrity, despite exposure to varying weather conditions and handling during several range sessions and hunting trips. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth has been sufficient to maintain its pristine appearance.
There is minimal wear and tear, primarily some slight smoothing of the checkering in the areas that come into contact with my hand the most. The grip remains solid and secure on the frame; there is no loosening or shifting. It still looks and feels like a premium product.
Maintenance is simple, requiring only an occasional wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth to preserve the wood. Compared to the original factory grips, the Hogue grip offers a significantly improved shooting experience, both in terms of comfort and control. The Kingwood is also much more attractive and distinctive.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624
Specifications
- The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624 is specifically designed for the Ruger Redhawk revolver. This ensures a precise and secure fit.
- It’s crafted from genuine Kingwood, a dense and visually striking hardwood known for its durability and rich color. This provides a beautiful and robust grip surface.
- The “Big Butt” design offers an extended grip area. This design feature enhances recoil control, particularly with magnum calibers.
- The grip features a checkered surface for enhanced grip traction. This checkering promotes a secure hold, even in adverse conditions.
These specifications are crucial because they directly impact the shooter’s ability to maintain control of the firearm and shoot accurately. The Kingwood’s density aids in recoil absorption. The extended grip and checkering surface ensure a secure and comfortable hold.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624 significantly enhances the shooter’s control and comfort. It reduces felt recoil and improves accuracy, especially during rapid firing. The grip performs exceptionally well.
Its main strengths lie in its comfortable ergonomic design and superior grip texture. A slight weakness might be that Kingwood, while durable, requires a bit more care than synthetic materials. It meets and exceeds my expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624 is excellent, with precisely fitted joints and a smooth, even finish. The grip is substantial without being overly bulky. This makes it both comfortable to hold and aesthetically pleasing.
The grip’s ergonomic design fills the hand well. The Big Butt design significantly improves comfort during extended shooting sessions. There is virtually no learning curve. Installation is simple and intuitive.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the density and inherent strength of Kingwood, the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624 is expected to last for many years. With proper care, it should withstand the rigors of regular use and exposure to the elements. The finish should resist scratching and fading.
Maintenance primarily involves regular cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional application of a quality furniture polish or wood preservative. More intensive repairs, such as refinishing, may require the skills of a professional gunsmith or woodworker. Overall, maintenance is relatively easy.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624 is a standalone product, and doesn’t require additional accessories for basic functionality. No additional items are necessary for immediate use. However, a quality wood cleaner and preservative are recommended for long-term maintenance.
While the grip itself isn’t directly customizable, the Ruger Redhawk is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories. Some options are sights, holsters, and action tuning parts. It is not directly compatible with accessories designed for other handgun models or brands.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624
Pros
- Enhanced Recoil Control: The Big Butt design and ergonomic shape effectively mitigate recoil, making the Redhawk more comfortable to shoot, especially with magnum loads.
- Improved Grip and Handling: The checkered Kingwood surface provides a secure and confident grip, even in wet or sweaty conditions, leading to better accuracy and control.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The rich color and beautiful grain of the Kingwood add a touch of elegance and class to the Ruger Redhawk, enhancing its overall appearance.
- Durable Construction: The use of high-quality Kingwood ensures that the grip is durable and long-lasting, capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use.
- Easy Installation: The grip is designed for easy installation, requiring only basic tools and minimal gunsmithing knowledge.
Cons
- Wood Requires More Maintenance: Kingwood, while beautiful and durable, requires more care than synthetic materials, such as G10 or rubber. Occasional cleaning and oiling are necessary to prevent drying and cracking.
- Price: The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624 is more expensive than some other grip options. It might not fit the budget of all shooters.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624?
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624 is perfect for Ruger Redhawk owners who prioritize both performance and aesthetics. This includes hunters who rely on their Redhawk for backup or handgun hunting, competitive shooters who need enhanced control and recoil management, and recreational shooters who appreciate a comfortable and attractive grip. Anyone wanting to add a touch of class to their Redhawk while improving its handling will find this grip to be a worthwhile upgrade.
Those who should skip this product are shooters who primarily value low cost over all other considerations. And those who prefer grips made from synthetic materials requiring minimal maintenance. Also, those with smaller hands might find the “Big Butt” design too large and unwieldy.
Must-have accessories for optimal enjoyment include a high-quality wood cleaner and preservative to maintain the Kingwood finish. A properly fitted holster is also essential for safe and comfortable carry.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624 is a worthwhile investment for Ruger Redhawk owners looking to enhance both the performance and appearance of their revolver. It improves recoil control, provides a secure grip, and adds a touch of elegance with its beautiful Kingwood construction.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, superior ergonomics, and improved shooting experience. The grip’s value proposition is strong. The enhanced comfort and control translate to better accuracy and greater shooting enjoyment.
I would personally recommend the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Kingwood Big Butt 86624 to anyone seeking a premium grip upgrade for their Ruger Redhawk. If you value performance, aesthetics, and quality craftsmanship, this grip is an excellent choice. Upgrade your Ruger Redhawk today and experience the difference a quality grip can make!