Let’s Dive into Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250 is a drop-in replacement grip designed to enhance the ergonomics and control of Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with a square butt. This grip, crafted by Hogue, promises improved handling and a touch of classic elegance with its Goncalo Alves wood and finger groove design. Having spent over a decade fitting and advising on handgun grips, I was eager to see how this grip stacks up against the competition and whether it truly delivers on its promise of improved control and comfort.
My factory Taurus grip had become slick and uncomfortable after years of use, impacting my accuracy at the range. I needed a grip that offered better purchase, especially during rapid-fire drills, and something that would fill my hand more comfortably. I was also looking for something aesthetically pleasing, moving away from the purely functional polymer grips.
Upon unboxing, the Hogue grip made a solid first impression. The Goncalo Alves wood was beautifully finished, exhibiting a rich grain and warm tone. The weight felt substantial but not excessive, and the finger grooves were well-defined and seemed appropriately sized for my hand. Compared to a Pachmayr rubber grip and a set of custom Micarta grips I have used on other revolvers, the Hogue split the difference, offering what appeared to be a good balance of comfort and control.
My initial reaction was excitement; this grip looked and felt like a significant upgrade. It promised to address my concerns about slippage and hand fatigue while also adding a touch of class to my trusty Taurus revolver. I couldn’t wait to get it installed and head to the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250 to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250 on my Taurus Model 66, a medium-frame .357 Magnum revolver. The initial installation was straightforward, requiring only the removal of the old grip and the tightening of the included screw. I tested the grip at my local outdoor range, focusing on double-action shooting and rapid-fire drills.
The grip performed exceptionally well, even during a light drizzle. The finger grooves provided a secure and consistent grip, preventing slippage even with slightly wet hands. The increased palm swell filled my hand nicely, improving my recoil control, particularly with .357 Magnum loads.
There were no major issues, although I did notice that the grip felt slightly wider than the factory grip, which took a few magazines to get used to. Also, while the wood looked beautiful, I started to wonder how it would hold up over time in harsher conditions compared to synthetic options.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular use, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250 continues to impress. The Goncalo Alves wood has proven surprisingly resilient, showing no signs of cracking or splitting, even after repeated exposure to recoil. Cleaning is simple; a quick wipe down with a silicone cloth keeps the wood looking its best.
The grip remains securely attached and the improved handling characteristics have translated to tighter groupings and faster follow-up shots. Compared to my previous experiences with slick polymer grips, the Hogue offers a significant improvement in control and confidence. It has exceeded my initial expectations and become a permanent fixture on my Taurus Model 66.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250
Specifications
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250 is specifically designed for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with a square butt configuration. It features a Goncalo Alves hardwood construction, known for its strength, durability, and attractive grain patterns. The grip incorporates finger grooves to enhance the shooter’s grip and control.
The grip is designed to directly replace the factory grip using the existing grip screw. The Goncalo Alves wood not only adds to the aesthetics but also provides a naturally textured surface for improved purchase. The finger grooves are strategically placed to accommodate a variety of hand sizes, promoting a more secure and consistent hold.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250 performs admirably, significantly improving the shooter’s control and comfort. The enhanced grip translates to better recoil management and increased accuracy, particularly during rapid-fire scenarios. The combination of the wood’s natural texture and the finger grooves work together to provide a secure and confident hold.
The grip’s strengths lie in its enhanced ergonomics and improved recoil absorption. While the wood construction is durable, it may require more care than synthetic alternatives. Overall, the grip meets and even exceeds expectations for a drop-in replacement grip, significantly improving the handling characteristics of compatible Taurus revolvers.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250 features a classic design with a focus on ergonomics. The Goncalo Alves wood is beautifully finished and offers a warm, comfortable feel in the hand. The finger grooves are well-defined and provide a secure and intuitive grip.
The grip is user-friendly, requiring no specialized tools for installation. While the grip’s width may take some getting used to for shooters with smaller hands, the benefits of improved control and recoil management far outweigh any minor adjustment period. The Hogue grip offers a perfect blend of form and function, enhancing both the aesthetics and the handling characteristics of the firearm.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250, crafted from Goncalo Alves wood, is designed for long-lasting durability under normal shooting conditions. With proper care, this grip should last for many years. The hardwood construction resists cracking and splitting.
Maintenance is straightforward; regular cleaning with a silicone cloth will help preserve the wood’s finish and prevent drying or cracking. While the wood is relatively durable, it’s advisable to avoid prolonged exposure to extreme moisture or harsh chemicals. With proper care, the Hogue grip will maintain its beauty and functionality for years to come.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250 is a drop-in replacement grip and does not require additional accessories for installation. However, other grip options exist from Hogue and other manufacturers, including different woods, colors, and textures. Additionally, some users might consider adding an aftermarket grip screw for added security, although the included screw is generally sufficient.
The Hogue grip is compatible with most standard holsters designed for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with a square butt. While the grip itself does not offer any direct customization options beyond choosing different wood finishes (if available), it provides a solid foundation for enhancing the overall shooting experience with a compatible firearm.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250
Pros
- The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250 offers significantly improved grip and control compared to factory grips, leading to better accuracy and faster follow-up shots.
- The Goncalo Alves wood provides a beautiful and comfortable feel in the hand, enhancing both the aesthetics and the shooting experience.
- The finger grooves offer a secure and consistent grip, even in wet or slippery conditions.
- Installation is simple and straightforward, requiring only the removal of the old grip and the tightening of a single screw.
- The Hogue grip provides an excellent value proposition, offering a significant upgrade in performance and aesthetics at a reasonable price.
Cons
- The width of the grip may be slightly large for shooters with smaller hands.
- The wood construction may require more maintenance than synthetic grips to prevent drying or cracking.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250?
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250 is perfect for Taurus revolver owners looking to improve their grip, control, and accuracy. It’s an excellent choice for both casual shooters and competitive shooters seeking a performance upgrade. Additionally, it’s ideal for those who appreciate the classic look and feel of wood and want to enhance the aesthetics of their firearm.
Those who should skip this product are individuals with exceptionally small hands who may find the grip too wide. Also, individuals who prioritize absolute minimal maintenance might prefer a synthetic grip material instead of wood. A must-have modification would be a proper holster fitted for the revolver with the new grip installed.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250 is a well-designed and beautifully crafted grip that delivers on its promise of improved control and comfort. The Goncalo Alves wood offers a classic look and a warm, comfortable feel, while the finger grooves provide a secure and consistent grip. The grip’s easy installation and enhanced handling characteristics make it a worthwhile upgrade for any Taurus revolver owner.
The price is certainly justified considering the improved performance and aesthetics. I would absolutely recommend the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove 66250 to anyone looking to enhance their Taurus revolver. Upgrade your grip and elevate your shooting experience today!