Let’s Dive into Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 66930
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 66930 promises a blend of classic aesthetics and enhanced ergonomics for Taurus revolvers. Hogue is renowned for their high-quality grips, and this rosewood offering aims to elevate both the look and feel of your firearm. This grip replaces the factory grip, aiming to offer improved comfort and control without the modern finger grooves often found on aftermarket grips.
After years of using various textured and rubberized grips, I was seeking a return to classic materials with a focus on natural aesthetics. My old Taurus Model 66 felt a bit unwieldy with the factory rubber grips; I wanted something that felt more natural in my hand and looked the part. I had considered other grip options from Pachmayr and Altamont, but Hogue’s reputation for precise fit and durable materials ultimately swayed my decision.
Upon unboxing, the first thing that struck me was the rich color and grain of the rosewood. The grips felt solid and well-made, a testament to Hogue’s manufacturing standards. The absence of finger grooves was a deliberate choice on my part, favoring a more traditional grip feel.
Initially, I was excited about the potential improvement in aesthetics and feel, but also slightly apprehensive about how the smooth rosewood would perform in adverse conditions. The price of $106.21 felt reasonable considering the quality of materials and the expected enhancement to my shooting experience. Would it truly transform my trusty revolver, or would it be merely a cosmetic upgrade?
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 66930 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 66930 at my local outdoor shooting range. The weather was dry and sunny, perfect conditions for assessing the grip’s performance. The immediate difference was noticeable – the rosewood felt warmer and more natural than the synthetic rubber I was accustomed to.
The recoil absorption was surprisingly good, despite the lack of aggressive texturing; I was shooting .38 Special rounds through my Model 66. I found the smooth surface allowed me to make micro-adjustments in my grip to improve accuracy and comfort. Initially, I was concerned about slippage, but the fit was so precise that the grip felt secure even when my hands were slightly sweaty.
There were no significant issues after the first range session. It took a little while to get used to the smoother surface compared to the finger-grooved rubber grips I’d previously used. I did notice that the rosewood showed fingerprints more readily than synthetic materials, which is a minor aesthetic consideration.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 66930 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking or splitting in the rosewood, and the fit remains tight and secure. The finish has developed a slight patina, which only enhances its classic appearance.
Minor scratches have appeared on the surface from holster wear, but these are easily buffed out with a soft cloth and a bit of furniture polish. Cleaning is straightforward: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed. This contrasts sharply with the more demanding cleaning process required for some textured rubber grips.
Compared to my previous rubber grips, the Hogue rosewood offers a vastly superior aesthetic and a comparable level of comfort and control. The smooth surface, while initially a concern, has proven to be an asset, allowing for subtle grip adjustments that improve my shooting accuracy. The enhanced aesthetics significantly outweigh the need for slightly more frequent cleaning.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 66930
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hogue. Hogue is a well-respected name in the firearms industry, known for producing high-quality grips and accessories.
- Color: Rosewood. The rich, natural color of the rosewood provides a classic and elegant appearance.
- Gun Make: Taurus. Specifically designed for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with square butt profiles.
- Additional Features: No Finger Grooves. This provides a more traditional grip feel, allowing the user to customize their hand placement.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the user experience. The precise fit ensures stability and recoil management, while the rosewood material offers a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing feel. The absence of finger grooves caters to users who prefer a traditional grip style, offering versatility and customization.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 66930 performs admirably in its intended role: enhancing grip and aesthetics. The fit is exceptional; the grip aligns perfectly with the frame of my Taurus Model 66, providing a secure and stable platform for shooting. The rosewood material absorbs recoil effectively, making extended range sessions more comfortable.
One of its strengths is its elegant and classic design, which significantly enhances the overall appearance of the firearm. The main area for improvement would be additional texturing or stippling to provide an even more secure grip in extremely wet or slippery conditions. Overall, it meets and slightly exceeds my expectations, offering a good balance of aesthetics, comfort, and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with the rosewood panels exhibiting a high level of craftsmanship. The grip feels substantial and well-balanced in the hand, contributing to improved handling and control. There is a very slight learning curve for users accustomed to finger-grooved grips, but the smooth surface allows for greater adaptability and personalized hand placement.
It’s incredibly user-friendly, requiring only a simple installation process using the existing grip screw.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the quality of materials and construction, I anticipate this grip will last for many years with proper care. Maintenance is simple: regular cleaning with a soft cloth and occasional application of furniture polish will keep the rosewood looking its best. Repairs, should they ever be needed, would likely involve replacing the entire grip panel, as the rosewood is not easily repaired.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 66930 does not come with any accessories; it is a standalone grip replacement. Customization options are limited to aesthetic preferences, such as adding a custom medallion or stippling. The grip is compatible with standard Taurus grip screws, allowing for easy installation and replacement.
It’s worth noting that some users may choose to add a grip adapter or filler to further tailor the feel of the grip to their hand size.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 66930
Pros
- Exceptional aesthetics, enhancing the overall appearance of the firearm.
- High-quality rosewood material provides a comfortable and warm feel in the hand.
- Precise fit and finish ensures stability and improved recoil management.
- Traditional, no-finger-groove design allows for personalized hand placement and adaptability.
- Easy to install and maintain, making it a user-friendly upgrade.
Cons
- Rosewood can be slippery when wet; additional texturing might be necessary for some users.
- Shows fingerprints and smudges more readily than synthetic grips.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 66930?
This grip is perfect for Taurus revolver owners who appreciate classic aesthetics and a comfortable, customizable grip. It benefits target shooters, hunters, and collectors looking to enhance the appearance and feel of their firearm without sacrificing functionality. The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 66930 is an excellent choice for those who favor a traditional, no-finger-groove grip style.
Those who should skip this product are individuals who prioritize maximum grip security in all conditions, particularly wet or extremely sweaty environments. They also might want to avoid if they dislike the maintenance required for wood grips.
A must-have accessory could be a high-quality leather holster that complements the aesthetic of the rosewood grip.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 66930
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Grooves, Stripe/Cap 66930 is a worthwhile investment for Taurus revolver owners seeking a blend of classic aesthetics, comfort, and functionality. The price of $106.21 is justified given the quality of materials and the enhanced shooting experience it provides.
I would personally recommend this grip to anyone looking to upgrade their Taurus revolver with a touch of elegance and a more personalized feel. It truly transforms the firearm, both in appearance and in hand. If you value aesthetics and a traditional grip style, then this Hogue grip is a must-have.