Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 Review

Let’s Dive into Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251

The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 promises enhanced control and a touch of classic elegance for your Taurus 85 revolver. Hogue is a well-respected name in the firearms accessory world, known for their quality grips, and this offering specifically targets those looking to upgrade the handling and aesthetics of their trusted snub-nose. It’s a simple addition that can make a world of difference, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

I’ve always believed that a firearm is an extension of the shooter. The factory grips on my Taurus 85, while functional, never quite felt like me. I wanted something that offered a more secure purchase, especially during rapid-fire drills, and something that added a bit of visual flair without being gaudy.

Upon receiving the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251, I was immediately impressed. The rich color of the Goncalo Alves wood and the sharp checkering provided an instant upgrade in visual appeal. The grip felt substantial in my hand, a stark contrast to the somewhat anemic stock grips.

I considered several other grip options before settling on this Hogue model. Pachmayr’s rubber grips are a classic choice for recoil absorption, but I found them to be a bit too bulky for concealed carry. Altamont offers beautiful wood grips as well, but the Hogue’s finger grooves and checkered pattern seemed to offer a better balance of aesthetics and function.

My initial reaction was excitement. The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 looked and felt like an immediate improvement. Now, it was time to see if that translated to better performance on the range.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 at my local shooting range, focusing on rapid-fire drills and accuracy from various distances. The weather was typical for a late summer afternoon: humid with a slight breeze. I put about 200 rounds through my Taurus 85 that day.

The difference in handling was immediately noticeable. The finger grooves provided a much more secure and consistent grip, allowing for better recoil control and faster follow-up shots. Even with sweaty hands, the checkered pattern ensured a firm purchase.

The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 installed easily. It only took me about 5 minutes using the existing grip screw. I had to slightly adjust my grip to accommodate the finger grooves, but it quickly became second nature.

There were no immediate issues or surprises after the first range session. The grip performed exactly as I had hoped, improving both my comfort and accuracy.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of regular use, the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 has held up beautifully. It’s seen action during numerous range sessions and has been a constant companion during my concealed carry rotation. The color has deepened slightly, giving it an even richer appearance.

There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The checkering remains sharp, and the wood shows no cracks or splits. Despite exposure to sweat and occasional cleaning solvents, the finish has remained intact.

Maintaining the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 is simple. A quick wipe down with a clean cloth after each range session is usually sufficient. Occasionally, I’ll apply a light coat of furniture polish to maintain the luster of the wood.

Compared to my previous experience with the factory grips, the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 is a vast improvement. It offers superior comfort, control, and aesthetic appeal.

Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251

Specifications

• The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 is specifically designed for the Taurus 85 small frame revolver. It provides a secure and ergonomic grip.
• The grip is crafted from Goncalo Alves wood, known for its strength, durability, and attractive grain. Goncalo Alves delivers a premium feel.
• It features finger grooves that enhance grip security and control, particularly during rapid fire. This feature helps maintain a consistent hand position.
• The grip also incorporates a checkered pattern, providing an aggressive texture for added grip. The texturing excels even in wet or slippery conditions.
• The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 uses the existing grip screw for installation, making it a simple and straightforward upgrade. The intuitive design allows for quick replacement.

These specifications matter because they directly impact the shooter’s ability to effectively control the firearm. A secure and comfortable grip translates to improved accuracy, faster follow-up shots, and reduced fatigue during extended range sessions.

Performance & Functionality

The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 performs its job admirably. It provides a significant improvement in grip and control compared to the factory grips on my Taurus 85. It does exactly what it advertises!

The grip’s strengths lie in its enhanced ergonomics and secure purchase. The finger grooves and checkered pattern work together to create a comfortable and controllable shooting experience. I found the design to meet and even exceed expectations.

The only potential weakness might be the size for those with very small hands. Individuals with extremely small hands might find the finger grooves too pronounced.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality is excellent. Hogue utilizes high-quality materials and precise manufacturing processes. The grip feels solid and well-made, inspiring confidence in its durability.

The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 design is user-friendly. Installation is quick and easy. The finger grooves naturally guide the hand into a comfortable and secure position.

Durability & Maintenance

Given the quality of materials and construction, I expect the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 to last for many years. The Goncalo Alves wood is known for its resistance to wear and tear. The dense wood can take a beating.

Maintenance is minimal. As mentioned earlier, a simple wipe down after each use is usually sufficient. An occasional application of furniture polish can help maintain the wood’s luster.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 doesn’t require any additional accessories. It is a self-contained upgrade. You can always modify it with different finishes if desired.

It is compatible with most holsters designed for the Taurus 85. Aftermarket grip screws in different colors and materials can also be used for personalization.

Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251

Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251?

The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 is perfect for Taurus 85 owners looking to improve the comfort, control, and aesthetics of their revolver. It’s especially well-suited for concealed carry holders and recreational shooters who want a more secure grip and a touch of classic style.

Those with very small hands or those who prioritize purely functional rubber grips over aesthetics might want to skip this product. Individuals on a tight budget could also consider cheaper alternatives.

A quality leather or Kydex holster specifically designed for the Taurus 85 is a must-have accessory to complement the new grip.

Conclusion on Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251

Overall, the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 is an excellent upgrade for the Taurus 85 revolver. It offers a significant improvement in grip, control, and aesthetics. While the price may be a bit higher than some other options, the quality and performance justify the cost.

The value proposition is clear: enhanced control, improved comfort, and a touch of classic elegance. I believe that it is worth the cost.

I would definitely recommend the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Checkered 67251 to any Taurus 85 owner looking to upgrade their revolver. Transform your shooting experience today!