Let’s Dive into Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845
Few upgrades can transform a handgun like a new set of grips, and the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845 promises to be one of those transformative upgrades. Made by Hogue, a name synonymous with quality grips, this particular model aims to enhance the handling and aesthetics of Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with square butts. Featuring a beautiful CocoBolo wood finish, finger grooves, a “Big Butt” design for enhanced recoil absorption, and a checkered texture for improved grip, it immediately piqued my interest.
I’ve always been a firm believer that the grip is the primary interface between shooter and firearm, impacting everything from accuracy to comfort. I was looking for a grip that not only looked good but also provided a secure and comfortable hold, especially for extended range sessions with my Taurus Model 66. The factory grip, while functional, lacked that ergonomic feel and striking visual appeal I desired.
Upon unboxing the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845, I was immediately struck by the richness of the CocoBolo wood. The wood had a deep, warm tone with beautiful grain patterns and the checkering was sharply defined, offering a tactile feel. The grip felt substantial in hand, hinting at its ability to dampen recoil.
Compared to similar products like Pachmayr Presentation grips or other wood grip options from Altamont, the Hogue stood out due to its unique “Big Butt” design and the finger grooves. I chose the Hogue grip specifically for its enhanced recoil absorption and the promise of a more secure hold, hoping to improve my accuracy and reduce hand fatigue. My first impression was definitely excitement; it felt like I was holding a piece of art that was also a functional upgrade for my firearm.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845 came during a range session focused on practicing double-action shooting with my Taurus Model 66. The range conditions were relatively mild, with temperatures in the low 70s and clear skies.
The difference in feel compared to the factory grips was immediately apparent. The finger grooves naturally guided my hand into a comfortable and consistent grip, while the checkered texture provided a secure hold even with slightly sweaty hands. Recoil felt noticeably reduced thanks to the “Big Butt” design, allowing for faster follow-up shots.
I didn’t need any time to get used to the Hogue grip; it felt intuitive and natural from the very first shot. One pleasant surprise was how well the grip absorbed vibration; this reduced the felt recoil and made for a more comfortable experience, especially during rapid-fire drills.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845 has held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of cracking or splitting in the wood, and the checkering remains sharp and effective.
The only wear and tear is some minor smoothing of the finish in the areas where my hand makes the most contact, which is to be expected with a natural material like wood. Maintenance has been simple; occasional wiping with a clean, slightly damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep the grip looking and performing its best.
Compared to my previous experiences with rubber grips, the Hogue offers a superior combination of comfort, control, and aesthetics. The wood feels more natural in hand, provides better recoil absorption, and simply looks much better than synthetic materials. It has undoubtedly improved my shooting experience with the Taurus Model 66.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845
Specifications
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845 is specifically designed for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with a square butt configuration. The grip is crafted from CocoBolo wood, known for its density, durability, and attractive grain patterns. The design incorporates finger grooves that provide a more ergonomic and secure grip, helping to improve control and reduce fatigue.
The “Big Butt” design refers to the extended base of the grip, which helps to distribute recoil energy over a larger area of the hand. This reduces felt recoil and muzzle flip, leading to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots. The checkered surface further enhances the grip by providing a non-slip texture, even in wet or sweaty conditions.
These specifications are critical for several reasons. The fit is paramount, ensuring the grip interfaces seamlessly with the revolver frame for optimal function and aesthetics. The quality of the CocoBolo wood ensures durability and resistance to wear and tear. The ergonomic design and enhanced grip texture contribute directly to improved shooting performance and comfort.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845 excels at enhancing both the feel and performance of the Taurus revolver. The finger grooves guide the hand into a consistent and repeatable grip, while the checkered texture provides a secure hold under various conditions. The “Big Butt” design is particularly effective at reducing felt recoil, making extended range sessions more comfortable and enjoyable.
One of the strengths of this grip is its ability to improve accuracy, particularly during rapid-fire shooting. The reduced recoil allows for faster target reacquisition, while the enhanced grip promotes better control and stability. The grip feels incredibly secure and inspires confidence, which directly translates to improved shooting performance.
One minor weakness is that the CocoBolo wood, while beautiful, can become slippery when extremely wet. However, this can be mitigated by using gloves or applying a grip-enhancing product. Overall, the Hogue grip significantly exceeds expectations in terms of performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845 is exceptional, as one would expect from Hogue. The CocoBolo wood is precisely shaped and finished, with clean lines and tight tolerances. The grip feels substantial in hand, conveying a sense of quality and durability.
The ergonomic design of the grip is excellent. The finger grooves are well-placed and sized to fit a wide range of hand sizes, while the “Big Butt” design provides a comfortable and secure platform for the hand to rest on. The checkered texture is aggressive enough to provide a secure grip, but not so abrasive as to cause discomfort.
There is virtually no learning curve associated with using the Hogue grip. The design is intuitive and natural, making it easy to adapt to and instantly improve shooting performance. The enhanced grip leads to improved control and recoil management, which in turn leads to more accurate and consistent shooting.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845 is built to last. The CocoBolo wood is incredibly dense and durable, and the grip is expertly crafted to withstand the rigors of regular use. With proper care, this grip should provide many years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. Regular wiping with a clean, slightly damp cloth is sufficient to remove dirt and grime. Occasionally, applying a high-quality wood cleaner and conditioner can help to maintain the luster and protect the wood from drying out.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845 is primarily a standalone product, and doesn’t typically require additional accessories. However, the grip can be paired with other accessories to further enhance the shooting experience. For example, a high-quality holster designed for revolvers can help to protect the gun and provide a comfortable carry option.
The grip itself is not typically customized, as the CocoBolo wood and checkered texture are already highly desirable. However, some shooters may choose to add a small amount of grip tape to further enhance the grip in specific areas. The grip is compatible with most standard Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with a square butt configuration.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845
Pros
- Enhanced Recoil Absorption: The “Big Butt” design significantly reduces felt recoil, allowing for faster and more accurate follow-up shots.
- Improved Grip and Control: The finger grooves and checkered texture provide a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet or sweaty conditions.
- Exceptional Build Quality: The CocoBolo wood is precisely shaped and finished, ensuring durability and a premium feel.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The CocoBolo wood adds a touch of elegance and class to the Taurus revolver.
- Easy Installation: The grip is easy to install and requires no special tools.
Cons
- Slipperiness When Extremely Wet: The CocoBolo wood can become slippery when excessively wet, potentially compromising grip security.
- Price: The price point might be higher compared to synthetic grip options.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845?
This grip is perfect for Taurus medium and large frame revolver owners who are looking to improve the comfort, control, and aesthetics of their firearm. It is particularly well-suited for shooters who prioritize recoil absorption and enhanced grip security. The grip is also a great choice for those who appreciate the beauty and feel of natural wood.
This product might not be ideal for those who primarily shoot in extremely wet conditions or who prefer the feel of synthetic grips. Also, budget-conscious buyers may find the price of the Hogue grip prohibitive.
A must-have accessory for anyone purchasing this grip is a high-quality revolver holster to protect the gun during carry. Also, a good wood cleaner and conditioner will help to keep the grip looking its best for years to come.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845 is an outstanding upgrade for any Taurus medium or large frame revolver. It delivers a significant improvement in comfort, control, and aesthetics.
The price is justified by the quality of the materials, the precision craftsmanship, and the noticeable improvement in shooting performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this grip to anyone looking to enhance their shooting experience with a Taurus revolver. It’s an investment that will pay off in improved accuracy, reduced recoil, and enhanced enjoyment of the shooting sports. Don’t hesitate, upgrade your Taurus today with the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66845!