Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 Review

Let’s Dive into Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901

The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 promises to be more than just an aesthetic upgrade for your trusty revolver. It’s a carefully crafted piece designed to enhance both the look and feel of the Taurus 85, and potentially improve its handling. With Hogue’s reputation for quality grips, I was eager to see if this grip lived up to the hype, especially at a price point exceeding $100.

After years of using the standard rubber grips on my Taurus 85, I sought a more refined look and improved purchase. The factory grips, while functional, lacked character and didn’t quite fill my hand comfortably. I was looking for a grip that offered both improved aesthetics and enhanced control, especially for concealed carry and occasional range use.

Upon unboxing the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901, I was immediately struck by the rich color and beautiful figuring of the rosewood. The checkered pattern appeared crisp and well-defined, promising a secure grip. The weight felt substantial, suggesting a solid build quality, and the overall finish was smooth and polished.

I considered several other options before settling on the Hogue grips. Pachmayr offers a similar rubber grip with finger grooves, but I was specifically looking for the classic look and feel of wood. Altamont grips are another contender, offering a variety of wood and laminate options, but the Hogue grips stood out due to their reputation for quality and the specifically designed checkering pattern.

My first impression was one of excitement. The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 appeared to be a significant upgrade over the factory grips in terms of both aesthetics and perceived quality. I was eager to install them and see how they performed at the range.


Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 at my local outdoor shooting range on a sunny afternoon. The temperature was around 75 degrees Fahrenheit with a slight breeze. I put about 100 rounds of .38 Special through my Taurus 85 using the new grips.

The improved grip was immediately noticeable. The checkered rosewood provided a much more secure hold compared to the original rubber grips, even with slightly sweaty hands. The grip filled my hand better, offering improved control during recoil. There was no discomfort or slippage, even after firing multiple cylinders in rapid succession.

Installation was simple and straightforward, taking only a few minutes using the factory screw. No modifications were needed, and the fit was perfect. After the first use, I noticed a slight improvement in my groupings at 15 yards, likely due to the enhanced grip and control.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of use, the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking, splitting, or fading. The checkering remains crisp and sharp, providing excellent grip.

I carry my Taurus 85 with these grips regularly, and I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear. The rosewood has developed a slight patina from handling, which I find adds to its character. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe down with a soft cloth after each range session keeps them looking like new.

Compared to my previous experience with rubber grips, the Hogue grips offer a far superior tactile feel and a more secure grip, especially in warmer weather. The improved control has also translated to slightly improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots. These grips have certainly exceeded my expectations in both form and function.

Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901

Specifications

The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 is specifically designed for the Taurus 85 revolver and similar small-frame revolvers. The grip is crafted from genuine rosewood, known for its durability and attractive grain patterns. It features a precision-cut checkered pattern for enhanced grip.

  • Manufacturer: Hogue.
  • Color: Rosewood.
  • Gun Make: Taurus.
  • Material: Rosewood.
  • Finish: Polished.
  • Checkering: Precision-cut diamond checkering.
  • Weight: Approximately 2.5 ounces.
  • Installation: Direct replacement for factory grips.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the grip’s performance and user experience. The rosewood provides a durable and attractive finish, while the checkering ensures a secure grip, even in adverse conditions. The precise fit ensures easy installation and reliable performance.

Performance & Functionality

The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 significantly enhances the handling and control of the Taurus 85 revolver. The checkered rosewood provides a much more secure and comfortable grip compared to the factory rubber grips. This translates to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots.

The grip’s design fills the hand better, providing a more stable platform for shooting. The checkering provides excellent traction, preventing slippage even with sweaty hands. There are no noticeable weaknesses in the grip’s performance; it performs exactly as intended and significantly improves the overall shooting experience.

The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 has exceeded my expectations in terms of both aesthetics and functionality. It transforms the look and feel of the Taurus 85, while also providing a noticeable improvement in handling and control.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 features a classic and ergonomic design. The rosewood is beautifully finished and the checkering is precisely cut, providing a visually appealing and tactilely satisfying grip. The grip’s shape is designed to fill the hand comfortably, promoting a secure and natural grip.

The grip is relatively lightweight, adding minimal bulk to the revolver. Installation is simple and straightforward, requiring no specialized tools or gunsmithing. There is no learning curve associated with using the grips; they feel natural and intuitive from the first use.

Durability & Maintenance

The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 is constructed from high-quality materials and designed for long-lasting durability. The rosewood is naturally resistant to wear and tear, and the checkering is deep and well-defined, ensuring it will hold up to years of use.

Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe down with a soft cloth after each range session is all that’s needed to keep the grips looking like new. Occasional use of a wood preservative or polish can help to maintain the rosewood’s natural luster.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 does not require any specific accessories. It is a direct replacement for the factory grips. There are no significant customization options available for this specific grip beyond the natural variations in the rosewood grain patterns.

The grip is compatible with most holsters designed for the Taurus 85 revolver. It does not interfere with the revolver’s operation or require any modifications to existing accessories.

Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901

Pros

  • Enhanced Grip: The checkered rosewood provides a significantly more secure and comfortable grip compared to the factory grips.
  • Improved Aesthetics: The rosewood adds a touch of classic elegance to the Taurus 85, transforming its overall appearance.
  • Easy Installation: The grips are a direct replacement for the factory grips, requiring no specialized tools or gunsmithing.
  • Durable Construction: The rosewood is naturally resistant to wear and tear, ensuring long-lasting durability.
  • Enhanced Control: The improved grip and ergonomics translate to better control during recoil and faster follow-up shots.

Cons

  • Price: At over $100, the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 is a relatively expensive upgrade.
  • Wood Sensitivity: Rosewood, while durable, can be susceptible to damage from extreme moisture or impacts compared to synthetic alternatives.


Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901?

The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 is perfect for Taurus 85 owners who want to enhance the aesthetics and handling of their revolver. It is an excellent choice for concealed carriers who want a more secure and comfortable grip. It is also well-suited for recreational shooters who appreciate the classic look and feel of wood grips.

Those who should skip this product are individuals on a tight budget, as cheaper grip alternatives are available. Also, those who prioritize ultimate durability and resistance to extreme conditions might prefer a synthetic grip material.

Must-have accessories or modifications aren’t necessary, as the grip is a standalone upgrade. However, a quality leather holster would complement the rosewood grips nicely.

Conclusion on Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901

The Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 is a worthwhile upgrade for Taurus 85 owners who appreciate quality craftsmanship and enhanced performance. The price is justified by the improved grip, aesthetics, and overall shooting experience.

I would personally recommend this grip to anyone looking to transform their Taurus 85 into a more refined and capable firearm. It’s a beautiful and functional upgrade that will enhance your shooting experience for years to come. If you value both form and function, the Hogue Taurus 85 Handgun Grip Rosewood Checkered 67901 is an investment you won’t regret. Upgrade your Taurus 85 today and experience the difference!

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