Let’s Dive into Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301 is more than just an accessory; it’s a critical interface between the shooter and their firearm. Hogue is a trusted name in the firearms industry, known for their quality grips and accessories, and this grip promises an enhanced shooting experience for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with a round butt. It’s designed to improve grip, control, and overall comfort, making it a compelling upgrade for any Taurus revolver owner.
I was looking to improve the control and feel of my Taurus 856 Defender. The factory grip, while functional, lacked the ergonomic refinement and secure grip I wanted for confident handling, especially during rapid follow-up shots. I hoped this grip would solve the problem of a less-than-ideal hand-to-gun connection, improving accuracy and overall shooting pleasure.
The Hogue grip arrived in a simple, functional package, showcasing the beautiful Pau Ferro wood. Immediately, the weight and density of the wood felt substantial and high-quality, a significant upgrade from the polymer grip it would replace. The checkered pattern looked aggressive and promised excellent grip.
Compared to similar grips from Pachmayr and Altamont, the Hogue stood out due to its combination of natural wood and aggressively checkered pattern. While Pachmayr offers excellent rubber grips, I wanted the aesthetic appeal of wood, and Altamont grips, though attractive, sometimes lack the aggressive texture I prefer. The Hogue seemed to strike a perfect balance.
My first impression was excitement. The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301 felt like a premium upgrade, promising a significant improvement in feel and control over the factory grip. The color and figuring of the wood were exceptional, adding a touch of elegance to my otherwise utilitarian revolver.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hogue grip extensively at my local shooting range, focusing on both slow, deliberate fire and rapid-fire drills. The range offered a variety of scenarios, from static targets to moving drills, allowing me to thoroughly evaluate the grip’s performance. The weather was fair, providing a good baseline for testing before moving to more challenging conditions.
The improvement in grip was immediately noticeable. The aggressive checkering provided a secure hold, even with sweaty hands, and the slightly palm-swelled design filled my hand perfectly. Recoil felt more manageable, and I found myself back on target faster during rapid-fire sequences.
Installation was surprisingly easy; the grip slipped on with minimal effort and was securely held in place by the factory grip screw. I didn’t experience any unexpected issues, and the grip felt perfectly aligned with the frame of the revolver. The ergonomics were very natural and I immediately felt comfortable with the grip angle and palm swell.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Hogue grip has held up remarkably well. Despite frequent range trips and occasional exposure to less-than-ideal conditions, the grip shows minimal signs of wear. The finish remains vibrant, and the checkering is still sharp and effective.
The Pau Ferro wood is proving to be quite durable, resisting scratches and dings. I’ve also cleaned the grip several times with a damp cloth and mild soap, and it has maintained its original appearance with no signs of discoloration or damage. The grip doesn’t absorb moisture so it has retained its original appearance.
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301 is a definite improvement over the factory grip. It significantly enhances control, comfort, and overall shooting experience. I find myself shooting more accurately and enjoying my revolver more with this grip installed.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301
Specifications
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301 is designed specifically for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with a round butt. It is crafted from Pau Ferro hardwood, known for its density, durability, and attractive grain. The grip features an aggressive checkered pattern for enhanced grip and control.
- Manufacturer: Hogue
- Color: Pau Ferro (brown with varied grain)
- Gun Make: Taurus (Medium & Large Frame, Round Butt)
- Material: Pau Ferro Hardwood
- Checkering: Aggressive, machine-cut checkering pattern
- Weight: Approximately 3-4 ounces (weight varies slightly due to natural wood density).
These specifications translate directly into tangible benefits for the shooter. The Pau Ferro wood provides a solid and comfortable feel, while the checkering ensures a secure grip, even under adverse conditions. The tailored fit for Taurus revolvers guarantees proper alignment and function.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301 excels in providing a secure and comfortable grip, which translates into improved accuracy and control. The aggressive checkering ensures a firm hold, reducing slippage during recoil, and the palm swell fills the hand comfortably, minimizing fatigue during extended shooting sessions. The contoured grip gives the shooter more control during rapid fire engagements.
The grip’s strengths lie in its superior ergonomics and enhanced control, which significantly improves the shooting experience. A minor weakness might be the aggressive checkering, which could be uncomfortable for those with sensitive hands during prolonged use, but a lighter grip pressure can easily solve this issue. Overall, this exceeds the factory grip.
The Hogue grip meets and exceeds my expectations, delivering a significant improvement in comfort, control, and overall shooting pleasure. It transforms the feel of my Taurus revolver, making it a more enjoyable and accurate firearm to shoot. The checkering provides a better purchase of the gun than any other grip I have tried.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301 boasts exceptional build quality, with the Pau Ferro wood providing a solid and substantial feel. The grip is comfortable in the hand, thanks to its slightly palm-swelled design and ergonomic contours, which promote a natural and secure grip. The checkering ensures a slip-resistant surface.
There is virtually no learning curve associated with the Hogue grip. It installs easily and provides an immediate improvement in feel and control. The grip promotes a natural and intuitive shooting stance, making it a user-friendly upgrade for both novice and experienced shooters.
Durability & Maintenance
The Pau Ferro hardwood is known for its durability, and the Hogue grip is built to last. With proper care and maintenance, it should provide years of reliable service. The finish is resistant to scratches and dings, and the checkering is designed to withstand repeated use.
Maintaining the grip is simple; regular cleaning with a damp cloth and mild soap is sufficient to keep it looking its best. The wood can also be treated with a high quality wood oil to preserve and protect the natural wood finish.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301 doesn’t require any specific accessories. It’s a standalone upgrade designed to improve the existing grip of the firearm. The factory grip screw is all that is needed for a secure installation.
The grip is fully compatible with standard holsters designed for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with a round butt. There are no known compatibility issues with popular accessories.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301
Pros
- Enhanced Grip: Aggressive checkering provides a secure and slip-resistant grip, even in wet or sweaty conditions.
- Improved Control: The ergonomic design and palm swell fill the hand comfortably, promoting better control and accuracy.
- Durable Construction: Crafted from Pau Ferro hardwood, known for its strength, durability, and attractive grain.
- Easy Installation: Installs quickly and easily using the factory grip screw.
- Aesthetically Pleasing: The natural wood grain adds a touch of elegance to the firearm.
Cons
- Aggressive Checkering: The aggressive checkering may be uncomfortable for those with sensitive hands during prolonged use.
- Price: More expensive than factory grips or some synthetic alternatives.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301?
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301 is perfect for Taurus revolver owners looking to significantly improve the grip, control, and overall feel of their firearm. It’s an excellent upgrade for concealed carry users, range shooters, and anyone who values a secure and comfortable grip. The grip is also a great choice for those seeking a more aesthetically pleasing and durable alternative to factory grips.
Those with very sensitive hands who dislike aggressive texturing might want to consider a different grip material, such as a smooth wood or rubber. Users prioritizing budget over features might also find cheaper, albeit less refined, alternatives.
A high-quality leather holster designed for a round-butt Taurus revolver would be a must-have accessory to complement this grip. Regularly cleaning solvent and a soft cloth for the firearm and the grip can further protect it.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301 is a worthwhile investment for Taurus revolver owners seeking enhanced grip, control, and aesthetics. The quality of the Pau Ferro wood, the aggressive checkering, and the ergonomic design all contribute to a significant improvement over factory grips. The grip’s design and build quality enhances comfort and control and increases overall confidence and accuracy.
The price is justified by the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and the noticeable improvement in shooting performance. This grip is a definite must-have for revolver enthusiasts.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Checkered 65301. Upgrade your Taurus revolver today and experience the difference a quality grip can make!