Let’s Dive into Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835
The Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835 promises to elevate your shooting experience by offering a superior grip and enhanced aesthetics to your Smith & Wesson revolver. Crafted by Hogue, a renowned name in firearm accessories, this grip features the beautiful Coco Bolo wood, a comfortable “Big Butt” design, and a classic checkered pattern. This grip aims to provide both improved control and a touch of elegance to your firearm.
My old factory grips on my Model 19 were functional, but they were starting to show their age and honestly, they just didn’t feel right in my hand anymore. I was looking for something that offered better purchase, especially when shooting magnum loads, and something that just looked nicer. I needed a grip that offered superior comfort and a touch of class.
The Hogue grip arrived in a simple, yet secure package. My initial reaction was one of pleasant surprise. The Coco Bolo wood grain was even more stunning in person than it appeared online. The heft of the grip felt substantial, indicating a quality build, and the checkering looked sharp and precise.
I considered several other options, including rubber grips from Pachmayr and some laminated wood grips from Altamont. However, I chose the Hogue grip for its combination of the classic Coco Bolo wood, the larger “Big Butt” design for recoil absorption, and the lack of finger grooves, which I personally find restrictive. The Coco Bolo won me over.
I was immediately excited. This wasn’t just a functional upgrade; it was a visual one too. The grip promised to transform the look and feel of my revolver, and I couldn’t wait to install it and head to the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835 at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was sunny but with a slight breeze, typical for a spring day in the high desert. I wanted to gauge the grip’s performance with a variety of ammunition, from mild .38 Special target loads to potent .357 Magnum rounds.
The difference in felt recoil was immediately noticeable, especially with the magnum loads. The larger “Big Butt” design definitely helped distribute the recoil across my hand, making the shooting experience far more comfortable. The checkered texture provided a secure grip even when my hands became slightly sweaty from the heat.
Installation was straightforward, taking only a few minutes with a screwdriver. I didn’t experience any issues with fit or alignment. My only surprise was how much the new grip changed the balance of the gun, in a positive way.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking or splitting in the wood. The checkering remains sharp and effective.
The Coco Bolo wood has proven to be quite durable, showing no significant scratches or dings despite being handled frequently. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps the wood looking its best. I have used it in varying weather conditions with no affect.
Compared to my previous experiences with rubber grips, the Hogue grip offers a far more refined feel and superior aesthetics. While rubber is undeniably practical, the Coco Bolo wood provides a touch of elegance that enhances the overall shooting experience. This grip has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835
Specifications
The Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835 is specifically designed for Smith & Wesson K and L frame revolvers with a square butt. It features a Coco Bolo wood construction known for its beautiful grain and durability. The grip is designed without finger grooves, allowing for a more natural and comfortable hand placement for a wider range of shooters.
The “Big Butt” design extends slightly below the frame of the revolver. This feature provides increased surface area for recoil absorption and improved control, particularly when shooting heavier calibers. The fine checkering on the grip surface enhances traction and provides a secure hold, even in wet or slippery conditions. This model weighs approximately 4 ounces, adding a small amount of weight to the firearm.
These specifications are important because they directly influence the shooter’s comfort, control, and overall shooting experience. The Coco Bolo wood provides a secure and aesthetically pleasing grip. The absence of finger grooves caters to individual hand shapes and preferences. The “Big Butt” design effectively mitigates recoil, enabling the shooter to maintain accuracy and control during rapid firing.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835 excels in providing enhanced control and comfort during shooting. The checkered texture provides a secure and confident grip, minimizing slippage, even with sweaty hands or in adverse weather conditions. The “Big Butt” design helps to distribute recoil more evenly across the hand, significantly reducing felt recoil and improving shooter comfort, especially with magnum loads.
The grip’s design promotes a natural and consistent hand placement, contributing to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots. One area that could be improved is the price, which might be a barrier for some buyers. Overall, the grip meets and exceeds my expectations for a premium revolver grip.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835 boasts exceptional build quality. The Coco Bolo wood is meticulously crafted and flawlessly finished. The weight feels balanced in the hand.
The absence of finger grooves allows for a customized grip, accommodating various hand sizes and shooting styles. The grip is incredibly user-friendly. Installation is quick and easy.
Durability & Maintenance
The Coco Bolo wood is known for its inherent durability and resistance to wear and tear. With proper care, the grip should last for many years. Cleaning is simple; a light wipe down with a soft cloth and occasional application of gun-safe oil will keep the wood looking its best.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835 itself doesn’t require any additional accessories for proper function. However, a quality grip screw is always recommended for secure installation. While the grip is primarily a standalone upgrade, it complements other revolver modifications such as trigger jobs or improved sights.
The grip is compatible with various speedloaders and holsters designed for S&W K and L frame revolvers. Other accessories from other brands such as mag pouches work well too.
Pros and Cons of Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835
Pros
- Improved Recoil Absorption: The “Big Butt” design significantly reduces felt recoil, making shooting more comfortable, especially with magnum loads.
- Enhanced Grip: The checkered texture provides a secure and confident grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The Coco Bolo wood adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to your revolver.
- Customizable Fit: The absence of finger grooves allows for a more natural and comfortable hand placement for a wider range of shooters.
- Durable Construction: The Coco Bolo wood is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear.
Cons
- Price: The Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835 is more expensive than some other grip options, such as rubber or synthetic grips.
- Wood Grain Variation: The appearance of the wood grain can vary from grip to grip, which might not appeal to those seeking a specific aesthetic.
Who Should Buy Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835?
The Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835 is perfect for: Smith & Wesson revolver owners seeking to improve their grip and control, particularly when shooting magnum loads. It’s great for shooters who appreciate the look and feel of wood grips and prefer a classic aesthetic. Anyone looking for a comfortable and customizable grip that enhances the overall shooting experience will love this too.
This grip may not be ideal for shooters on a tight budget, as it is a premium-priced option. Those who prioritize purely functional grips over aesthetics may also prefer a less expensive rubber or synthetic alternative. Shooters with very small hands might find the “Big Butt” design to be too large and bulky.
A high-quality set of grip screws is a must-have for secure installation. Depending on your shooting style, you might also consider adding a speedloader for faster reloads.
Conclusion on Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835
The Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835 is a worthwhile investment for Smith & Wesson revolver owners seeking to upgrade their grip and enhance their shooting experience. The combination of enhanced control, improved recoil absorption, and a touch of elegance makes it a compelling choice. The Coco Bolo wood is durable and good-looking.
While the price is higher than some alternatives, the quality and performance justify the cost. I would absolutely recommend the Hogue S&W K or L Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Coco Bolo No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 10835 to anyone looking for a premium revolver grip that provides both form and function. Upgrade your revolver today and experience the difference a quality grip can make.