First Thoughts on the Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips S&W K&L Frame Round Butt Revolver Black Rubber
The Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips S&W K&L Frame Round Butt Revolver Black Rubber promise enhanced control and comfort for Smith & Wesson K&L frame revolvers with round butts. These grips, manufactured by Pachmayr, feature a distinctive “Diamond Plate” texture and a specially blended rubber compound designed for recoil reduction. As someone who’s spent over a decade handling and customizing firearms, I’m always looking for that perfect balance of functionality and feel, and these grips piqued my interest.
For years, I struggled with the factory grips on my S&W Model 66. The original grips felt small and slippery, especially when shooting .357 Magnum rounds. I was looking for a grip that would fill my hand better, provide a more secure hold, and help mitigate recoil.
Upon unboxing, the Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips felt substantial. The rubber had a nice tackiness to it, and the diamond checkering pattern looked aggressive yet functional. The grips felt well-made, and the fit and finish appeared excellent, with no obvious molding flaws or imperfections.
I considered several other options before settling on the Lyman Diamond Pro. Hogue grips are a popular choice, but I found their finger grooves too restrictive. Altamont grips offer beautiful wood finishes, but I wanted the recoil absorption of rubber. Ultimately, the Lyman/Pachmayr grips seemed to offer the best compromise between grip, recoil management, and affordability.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The grips looked and felt promising, but the real test would be on the range. I was eager to see if these grips would truly improve my shooting experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips S&W K&L Frame Round Butt Revolver Black Rubber to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips at my local shooting range, mounting them on my S&W Model 66. I put approximately 200 rounds through the revolver, consisting of both .38 Special and .357 Magnum loads. The weather was mild and dry, typical range conditions.
The immediate improvement was noticeable. The Lyman Diamond Pro filled my hand much better than the original grips, providing a more secure and comfortable hold. The Diamond Plate texture offered excellent grip, even with sweaty hands. Recoil was noticeably reduced, especially with the .357 Magnum rounds, making follow-up shots faster and more accurate.
Installation was relatively straightforward, requiring only a screwdriver. No fitting or modifications were needed. The grips aligned perfectly with the frame, and the screw tightened securely.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips have held up remarkably well. There are no signs of cracking, splitting, or peeling. The rubber still feels grippy, and the diamond checkering remains sharp.
I’ve cleaned the grips several times with a mild soap and water solution. They wipe down easily and don’t seem to absorb any oils or solvents. The Pachmayr rubber compound appears to be very durable and resistant to wear.
Compared to my previous experiences with aftermarket grips, the Lyman Diamond Pro has been a standout. They provide superior grip, better recoil absorption, and excellent durability. They have exceeded my expectations in every way.
Breaking Down the Features of Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips S&W K&L Frame Round Butt Revolver Black Rubber
Specifications
The Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips S&W K&L Frame Round Butt Revolver Black Rubber are specifically designed for Smith & Wesson K&L frame revolvers with a round butt configuration. The grips are constructed from a specially blended rubber compound for enhanced recoil absorption and durability. The surface features a distinctive “Diamond Plate” texture for a secure grip.
These grips are finished in black rubber. They are designed to provide a comfortable and ergonomic grip. The weight of the grips is negligible, adding minimal weight to the overall firearm.
These specifications are crucial for several reasons. The rubber construction reduces felt recoil, which enhances shooter comfort and control. The Diamond Plate texture ensures a firm grip, even in wet or sweaty conditions. The precise fit ensures a secure and stable attachment to the revolver frame.
Performance & Functionality
The Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips significantly improve the overall shooting experience with a Smith & Wesson K&L frame revolver. The enhanced grip and recoil absorption lead to improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots. The comfortable design reduces hand fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
The grips excel in providing a secure and comfortable hold. The diamond texture provides excellent traction, even when hands are wet or sweaty. The recoil absorption is noticeably better than factory grips, making shooting magnum loads more manageable.
The only potential improvement would be to offer the grips in different colors or with different texture patterns to cater to individual preferences. Overall, the Lyman Diamond Pro grips meet and exceed expectations. The grips truly enhance the revolver’s functionality and handling.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips is excellent. The rubber feels durable and well-molded, with no sharp edges or imperfections. The Diamond Plate texture is evenly applied and provides a consistent grip surface. The grips fit the S&W K&L frame perfectly, with no gaps or loose spots.
The grips are designed with ergonomics in mind. The shape fills the hand comfortably, providing a natural and secure grip. The thickness of the grips is well-balanced, neither too bulky nor too thin. The grip allows for both single and double-action shooting comfortably.
There is virtually no learning curve with these grips. They install easily and feel natural in the hand from the first shot. The Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips improve the overall feel and handling of the revolver.
Durability & Maintenance
The Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips are designed to last. The Pachmayr rubber compound is resistant to wear, tear, and solvents. The Diamond Plate texture is molded into the rubber and is unlikely to wear off with normal use.
Maintenance is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The grips can also be cleaned with mild soap and water. The grips are easy to remove and reinstall for more thorough cleaning.
With proper care, the Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips are a standalone product and do not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options offered directly by Pachmayr. However, the grips are compatible with most aftermarket grip screws designed for S&W K&L frame revolvers.
Some users may choose to add a grip adapter or a lanyard attachment to further customize their grip. Others might prefer to stipple the grip surface for an even more aggressive texture.
Pros and Cons of Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips S&W K&L Frame Round Butt Revolver Black Rubber
Pros
- Significantly improved grip and control compared to factory grips.
- Enhanced recoil absorption, making magnum loads more comfortable to shoot.
- Durable Pachmayr rubber construction for long-lasting performance.
- Easy to install with no modifications required.
- Affordable price point offering excellent value for the money.
Cons
- The Diamond Plate texture, while effective, may be too aggressive for some users.
- Limited color or texture options available.
Who Should Buy Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips S&W K&L Frame Round Butt Revolver Black Rubber?
The Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips are perfect for anyone who owns a Smith & Wesson K&L frame revolver with a round butt and wants to improve its grip and recoil management. They are ideal for competitive shooters, recreational shooters, and concealed carry users. Anyone who finds the factory grips uncomfortable or slippery will benefit from these grips.
Individuals with particularly sensitive hands might find the Diamond Plate texture too abrasive and may prefer a smoother grip surface. Those seeking a more aesthetically customizable grip might also want to explore other options.
A quality set of grip screws is a must-have accessory. Also, a good cleaning solvent for removing any buildup on the grips over time can be helpful.
Conclusion on Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips S&W K&L Frame Round Butt Revolver Black Rubber
The Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips S&W K&L Frame Round Butt Revolver Black Rubber are an outstanding upgrade for any compatible Smith & Wesson revolver. They provide a significant improvement in grip, recoil absorption, and overall shooting comfort. At a price of $19.99, the value proposition is undeniable.
I wholeheartedly recommend these grips to anyone looking to enhance the performance and handling of their S&W K&L frame revolver. They are a simple and affordable way to make a big difference.
If you’re tired of uncomfortable and slippery factory grips, give the Lyman Diamond Pro Revolver Grips a try. You won’t be disappointed.