Let’s Dive into Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630 is a premium grip designed by Hogue to enhance the handling and aesthetics of Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with round butt configurations. Featuring beautiful Kingwood, a rich and durable hardwood, and a stripe/cap design, this grip aims to provide both improved ergonomics and a classic, refined look. This grip promises to offer a secure and comfortable hold without finger grooves, appealing to shooters who prefer a smooth, traditional feel.
My journey to finding this grip began with a desire to upgrade the factory grips on my trusty Taurus Model 66. The original grips, while functional, lacked the tactile feel and aesthetic appeal I wanted for a handgun that sees regular use both at the range and as a part of my backcountry kit. I was searching for a grip that offered better purchase, especially in wet conditions, and that also added a touch of class to the overall appearance of the revolver.
Upon unboxing the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630, my immediate impression was one of quality. The Kingwood felt solid and substantial in my hand, and the finish was flawless, showcasing the wood’s natural grain. The weight felt balanced, and the absence of finger grooves gave the grip a clean, classic silhouette.
I considered several other grip options before settling on the Hogue Kingwood grip. Pachmayr offers rubber grips that excel in all-weather conditions, but I desired the aesthetic of natural wood. Altamont offers wood grips with intricate checkering, but I preferred the smooth, clean lines of the Hogue design.
My first impression was one of excitement and anticipation. I was eager to install the grip on my Taurus and experience the difference it would make in handling and control. The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630 seemed like the perfect blend of form and function, promising to elevate my shooting experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630 at my local shooting range, focusing on slow-fire accuracy and rapid-fire control drills. The initial testing was conducted on a clear, dry day to provide a baseline for comparison. The grip provided a noticeable improvement in handling compared to the factory grips.
In slightly damp conditions, simulating early morning dew or light rain, the Hogue grip maintained a surprisingly secure hold. The Kingwood, while smooth, offered enough natural texture to prevent slippage, even with moderately wet hands. The absence of finger grooves allowed for a more flexible grip, accommodating different hand sizes and shooting styles.
Installation was straightforward, requiring only a few minutes and a basic screwdriver. The grip fit snugly and securely on my Taurus Model 66, with no gaps or movement. After the first use, I noticed a slight improvement in my grouping size at 25 yards, likely due to the enhanced grip stability.
The only minor issue I encountered was the potential for the wood to become slightly slick with prolonged use when combined with sweat. However, this was easily mitigated by wiping the grip down periodically or wearing shooting gloves. Overall, my first use experience was very positive.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630 has proven to be a durable and reliable upgrade. There are no signs of cracking, splitting, or significant wear and tear. The finish remains intact, and the grip continues to provide a secure and comfortable hold.
The Kingwood has retained its structural integrity, even after exposure to varying temperatures and humidity levels during backcountry camping trips. Cleaning is simple, requiring only a wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional application of a wood preservative. The grip shows minor scuffs from holster wear, adding character rather than detracting from its appearance.
Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket grips, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630 has significantly outperformed expectations. Rubber grips, while providing excellent all-weather performance, often feel less refined and can degrade over time. Synthetic grips can lack the natural feel and aesthetic appeal of wood. The Hogue grip strikes an excellent balance between performance, durability, and aesthetics.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630
Specifications
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630 is designed specifically for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with round butt configurations. It is crafted from high-quality Kingwood, a dense and durable hardwood known for its rich color and attractive grain. The grip features a smooth, no-finger-groove design for a classic feel and comfortable fit for a variety of hand sizes.
The grip includes a distinctive stripe/cap design, adding a touch of elegance to the overall appearance. It provides enhanced grip stability and recoil absorption compared to factory grips. The Manufacturer is Hogue, a well-respected name in firearm accessories, known for their quality craftsmanship and innovative designs. The grip’s Color is Kingwood, showcasing the natural beauty of the wood.
The Gun Make compatibility is Taurus, specifically medium and large frame revolvers with a round butt. The Additional Features include the absence of finger grooves, allowing for a customizable grip. These specifications matter because they directly influence the grip’s comfort, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. The Kingwood material provides a solid and secure hold, while the no-finger-groove design accommodates various hand sizes.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630 excels in enhancing the overall shooting experience. It improves grip stability, leading to better accuracy and control, especially during rapid-fire sequences. The smooth, no-finger-groove design allows for a more natural and adaptable grip, accommodating different shooting styles and hand sizes.
The grip’s strengths lie in its comfortable ergonomics, secure hold, and aesthetically pleasing design. One potential weakness is that the smooth wood may become slightly slick with prolonged use in hot or humid conditions, though this can be easily managed. The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630 meets and even exceeds expectations. It delivers a significant improvement in handling and appearance compared to standard factory grips.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630 is built with high-quality materials, evident in its solid feel and precise fit. The Kingwood provides a substantial and comfortable grip, with the absence of finger grooves contributing to a more natural hand position. The grip’s weight is well-balanced, enhancing the overall feel of the handgun.
The design is user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools or skills for installation. There is virtually no learning curve, making it easy for shooters of all experience levels to adapt to the grip.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630 is built to last, thanks to the inherent durability of Kingwood and Hogue’s quality craftsmanship. With proper care, the grip should provide years of reliable service. Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and conditioning to preserve the wood’s finish and prevent drying or cracking.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630 itself does not come with additional accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of holsters designed for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with round butt configurations. The smooth grip surface allows for easy draw and re-holstering.
Customization options are somewhat limited, as the grip is a complete unit. However, users can further personalize their handgun by adding a custom trigger, hammer, or sights. The Hogue grip is designed to be compatible with most aftermarket accessories, allowing for a truly personalized shooting experience.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630
Pros
- Beautiful Kingwood provides a classic, refined look.
- No finger grooves allow for a customizable and comfortable grip for various hand sizes.
- Enhanced grip stability leads to improved accuracy and control.
- Durable construction ensures years of reliable service.
- Easy installation with no specialized tools required.
Cons
- Smooth wood may become slightly slick with prolonged use in hot or humid conditions.
- Kingwood is more susceptible to scratches and dents compared to synthetic materials.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630?
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630 is perfect for handgun enthusiasts and competitive shooters who want to enhance the aesthetics and performance of their Taurus revolvers. It’s also a great option for hunters and backcountry users who demand a reliable and comfortable grip in various conditions. It is suited for those who prefer a classic, no-finger-groove grip design.
Someone who should skip this product might be those who prioritize all-weather performance above all else. Rubber or synthetic grips are best for extreme wet conditions. Those who prefer highly textured or aggressively checkered grips may also find this grip too smooth.
A must-have accessory would be a high-quality wood preservative to maintain the grip’s finish and prevent drying or cracking. Consider also purchasing a set of shooting gloves.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630 is an excellent upgrade for Taurus revolver owners seeking enhanced aesthetics and improved handling. It offers a winning combination of classic design, comfortable ergonomics, and durable construction. While the price may be higher than some synthetic alternatives, the value proposition is justified by the quality of materials and craftsmanship.
I would highly recommend the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 65630 to anyone looking to elevate their Taurus revolver to the next level. It’s a worthwhile investment that will enhance your shooting experience and add a touch of elegance to your firearm. Upgrade your grip today and experience the difference!