Let’s Dive into Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66651
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66651 promises to be more than just a grip; it’s an upgrade in both aesthetics and functionality. Manufactured by Hogue, a name synonymous with quality firearm accessories, this grip aims to provide enhanced control and a touch of elegance to your Taurus medium or large square butt handgun. Featuring a beautiful Kingwood finish, top finger grooves, and precise checkering, it’s designed for shooters who appreciate both form and function.
For years, I’ve been grappling with the limitations of factory grips on my Taurus revolvers. The slick polymer offered minimal purchase, especially during hot days at the range or when dealing with recoil-heavy loads. I needed a grip that would offer a secure hold, improved comfort, and a touch of class, leading me to the Hogue Kingwood grip.
Upon unboxing the Hogue grip, the first thing that struck me was the richness of the Kingwood. The wood grain is stunning, and the finish is smooth yet provides a natural texture. The grip feels substantial in hand, hinting at the improved control it promises compared to the factory grip.
Compared to other aftermarket grips I’ve used – namely, Pachmayr rubber grips and some generic wood options – the Hogue stands out due to its superior fit and finish. While the rubber grips offer excellent traction, they often feel bulky and lack the aesthetic appeal. The Hogue grip provides a balance between functionality and beauty that the others couldn’t match. My initial impression was excitement; I was eager to see if it would live up to its promise on the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66651 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66651 was at my local outdoor shooting range. I mounted it on my Taurus Model 66, a .357 Magnum revolver with a medium square butt frame, and brought along a variety of ammunition, from .38 Special target loads to full-power .357 Magnum rounds. The installation was straightforward, requiring only a screwdriver and a few minutes.
The difference in grip and control was immediately noticeable. The finger grooves aligned perfectly with my hand, providing a comfortable and secure hold. Even with the magnum rounds, the recoil felt more manageable, thanks to the improved grip and natural shock absorption of the wood. I didn’t experience any slippage, even with slightly sweaty hands.
There were no immediate issues or surprises after the first use. The grip felt solid and well-made, and the Kingwood finish remained unblemished. The improved control and comfort translated directly into better accuracy and a more enjoyable shooting experience.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks and hundreds of rounds, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66651 continues to impress. The wood shows no signs of cracking or splitting, and the checkering remains sharp and effective. The grip remains securely attached to the frame with no loosening of the mounting screw.
Cleaning and maintenance are simple. A quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each range session keeps the Kingwood finish looking its best. The grip hasn’t required any special care or repair.
Compared to my previous experiences with rubber grips that become sticky and worn over time, the Hogue grip offers a superior level of durability and longevity. It has significantly outperformed my expectations, providing a consistent and reliable shooting experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66651
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hogue. They are known for producing high-quality, durable firearm grips.
- Material: Kingwood. Kingwood is a dense, durable hardwood known for its beautiful grain and rich color.
- Grip Type: Top Finger Groove, Checkered. The finger grooves enhance grip and control, while the checkering provides additional texture.
- Fit: Taurus Medium & Large Square Butt Frames. Specifically designed for Taurus revolvers with medium and large square butt frames, ensuring a precise fit.
- Model Number: 66651. This is the unique identifier for this specific Hogue grip.
- Finish: Oiled. The oiled finish protects the wood and enhances its natural beauty.
These specifications are crucial because they directly affect the grip’s performance, durability, and overall user experience. The Kingwood provides a comfortable and secure hold, while the finger grooves and checkering further enhance control. The precise fit ensures a secure and stable connection to the firearm.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66651 significantly improves the handling and control of my Taurus revolver. The finger grooves naturally guide my hand into a consistent grip, while the checkering provides excellent traction, even in wet or sweaty conditions. The improved grip translates to better accuracy and reduced felt recoil.
The only potential weakness is that wood grips can be more susceptible to damage from extreme moisture or impacts compared to synthetic materials like rubber or G10. However, with proper care and maintenance, the Hogue Kingwood grip should provide years of reliable service. It exceeds expectations by offering a perfect blend of aesthetics and enhanced performance.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue grip boasts excellent build quality, with precise machining and a flawless finish. The Kingwood feels substantial in hand, yet the ergonomic design ensures a comfortable and natural grip. The finger grooves are well-defined and perfectly spaced for my hand size, providing a secure and repeatable grip.
There’s virtually no learning curve. The Hogue grip feels intuitive and natural from the moment it’s installed. The ergonomic design promotes proper hand placement and enhances overall shooting comfort.
Durability & Maintenance
With proper care, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66651 should last for many years. Kingwood is a durable hardwood that resists cracking and splitting. The oiled finish provides additional protection against moisture and wear.
Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only a quick wipe down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use. Periodic application of a quality wood preservative will help maintain the grip’s beauty and integrity. There should be no need for major repairs unless the grip is subjected to extreme abuse.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66651 doesn’t come with any accessories. It is, however, a direct replacement for the factory grip on Taurus medium and large square butt revolvers.
While not directly customizable beyond the standard finish and checkering, the grip enhances the overall aesthetic of the firearm and can be paired with other accessories like aftermarket sights and holsters. The improved grip and control also make the revolver more compatible with a wider range of shooting styles and techniques.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66651
Pros
- Significantly enhances grip and control. The finger grooves and checkering provide a secure and comfortable hold, even in challenging conditions.
- Beautiful Kingwood finish adds a touch of elegance. The rich grain and oiled finish make the grip a visually appealing addition to any Taurus revolver.
- Improves shooting accuracy and reduces felt recoil. The enhanced grip translates directly into better control and more manageable recoil.
- Durable construction ensures years of reliable service. Kingwood is a strong and stable hardwood that resists cracking and splitting.
- Easy to install and maintain. The grip is a direct replacement for the factory grip and requires only minimal care.
Cons
- Wood grips can be susceptible to damage from extreme moisture or impacts. Unlike synthetic grips, wood requires some care to prevent damage from the elements.
- More expensive than basic rubber grips. The premium materials and craftsmanship come at a higher price point.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66651?
This grip is perfect for Taurus revolver owners who value both performance and aesthetics. It’s ideal for shooters looking to improve their grip, control, and accuracy, especially with magnum calibers. The Hogue grip is also a great choice for those who appreciate the beauty and feel of natural wood.
This grip might not be the best choice for individuals who primarily use their revolvers in extremely harsh or wet environments, or who prioritize absolute durability over aesthetics. Those shooters might be better served by a synthetic grip made from rubber or G10. A must-have accessory would be a good quality gun cleaning kit with wood-friendly oil to maintain the beauty and integrity of the Kingwood finish.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66651
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66651 is an outstanding upgrade for any Taurus medium or large square butt revolver. It combines exceptional grip and control with a beautiful and durable Kingwood finish. The price of $148.71 is justified by the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and the significant improvement in shooting performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this grip to anyone looking to enhance the functionality and aesthetics of their Taurus revolver. It’s a worthwhile investment that will provide years of enjoyable and reliable service. Upgrade your Taurus today and experience the difference that a quality grip can make!