Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black Review

This is What Happened When I Used the Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black

For years, I’ve been a proponent of optimizing firearm ergonomics, especially for concealed carry. My Taurus 856, a reliable .38 Special revolver, is my go-to for deep concealment, but its factory grip left something to be desired, particularly for my larger hands. The two-finger grip, while compact, often led to a less secure hold, especially during recoil. I needed a solution that wouldn’t compromise concealability but would significantly enhance shootability. Enter the Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black.

This innovative grip promised the best of both worlds: the compact profile necessary for discreet carry and the expanded grip surface needed for confident shooting. I had looked at other grip extensions, but none offered the unique, deployable finger extension feature that this Pachmayr model boasts. My primary goal was to improve control and reduce felt recoil without adding undue bulk.

Initial impressions upon receiving the Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black were quite positive. The polymer felt robust and well-molded, with a slightly tacky texture that suggested good purchase. It looked like a solid piece of engineering, designed to integrate seamlessly with the Taurus 85/856 frame. Compared to basic rubber slip-on grips or more utilitarian wooden panels, this grip felt like a step up in functionality.

My immediate reaction was a sense of hopeful anticipation. This wasn’t just another cosmetic upgrade; it was a potential functional game-changer for a firearm I rely on.

Real-World Testing: Putting Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black to the Test

First Use Experience

I tested the Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black on my Taurus 856 during several range sessions, as well as for everyday carry. The installation was straightforward, requiring no special tools beyond what’s typically available in a basic gun cleaning kit. It slid onto the grip frame of my 856 snugly, with no rattling or looseness.

In terms of actual shooting, the difference was immediately noticeable. With the finger extension retracted, it presented a compact profile, very similar to the factory grip. However, with the simple press of the integrated button, the spring-loaded extension dropped down, providing a comfortable third finger purchase. This dramatically improved my ability to control the revolver, particularly when firing .38 Special +P rounds. The felt recoil seemed to diminish, and my follow-up shots were quicker and more accurate.

The grip also proved to be quite durable during its initial use. I accidentally dropped the revolver from waist height onto a padded shooting mat, and the grip remained fully intact with no cosmetic damage. It held up well against sweat and the typical dust encountered at an indoor range.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including regular range visits and daily concealed carry, the Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black has proven to be exceptionally reliable. The polymer shows no signs of cracking, splitting, or significant wear, even where my hand consistently makes contact. The textured surface remains grippy, without becoming overly abrasive or snagging on clothing during the draw.

Maintenance has been a non-issue. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and occasional mild soap is all it takes to keep it clean, and it’s impervious to common gun cleaning solvents and lubricants. Unlike some softer rubber grips that can degrade over time, this polymer composite seems resistant to environmental factors.

Compared to the factory grip or other aftermarket solutions I’ve tried on similar revolvers, this Pachmayr grip offers a superior balance of concealability and shootability. It doesn’t add the bulk that some extended grip panels do, yet provides significantly more control than a standard two-finger grip.

Breaking Down the Features of Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black

Specifications

The Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black is constructed from a durable polymer composite. Its primary innovation lies in its patented, spring-loaded finger extension that deploys with the press of a button. This allows the grip to function as a compact, two-finger grip for concealment, or convert to a three-finger grip for enhanced control.

The design is specifically contoured for use with speedloaders, a crucial detail for any revolver owner who prioritizes efficient reloads. The material is explicitly noted as being impervious to moisture, weather or chemicals, meaning it will not swell, shrink, or degrade under typical environmental stresses. The manufacturer’s item number is 02608, and the supplier SKU is 111136, falling under the GRIPS AND RECOIL PADS category. These specifications translate directly into practical benefits: enhanced handling, reliable performance in diverse conditions, and compatibility with essential reloading tools.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of the Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black is to bridge the gap between concealed carry dimensions and effective shooting control. In this regard, it performs admirably. The ability to quickly transition from a compact grip to a full three-finger grip dramatically improves muzzle stability and allows for better recoil management. This is particularly evident with more potent .38 Special loads, where the added surface area for my pinky finger makes a significant difference in controlling the firearm.

Its main strength is undoubtedly the deployable finger extension. This feature effectively doubles the grip’s utility without adding significant bulk when retracted. The contouring for speedloaders is also a well-executed detail that I appreciated during practice reloads. A minor point of potential improvement might be the texture on the extension itself; while functional, it could perhaps be slightly more aggressive for those with particularly slick hands. However, overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for its intended purpose.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The polymer feels solid and well-finished, with a matte black surface that blends well with most firearm finishes. The overall shape is sculpted to fit the hand comfortably, and the slight tackiness of the material provides a secure, non-slip purchase.

Ergonomically, the grip excels. The extended finger rest, when deployed, positions the hand naturally and comfortably, eliminating the “pinky-under” grip that is common with compact revolvers. This leads to a more intuitive feel and better control. The button for deploying the extension is easily accessible with the shooting hand’s thumb, allowing for a seamless transition during shooting drills. There was virtually no learning curve; it felt natural from the first time I held it.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience, the Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black is built for longevity. The polymer composite material is renowned for its resilience and resistance to environmental factors, making it an ideal choice for a firearm accessory that is subject to constant handling and potential exposure. I have experienced no signs of wear or stress fractures, even after significant use and a few accidental drops.

Maintenance is exceptionally simple; a damp cloth is usually sufficient for cleaning. Its imperviousness to moisture, weather or chemicals means users don’t have to worry about damage from sweat, rain, or cleaning solvents, which is a significant advantage over some other grip materials. This makes it a low-maintenance, high-reliability accessory for everyday carry and regular range use.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black is primarily a standalone replacement grip and does not come with additional accessories. However, its design inherently complements existing firearm accessories, most notably speedloaders. The grip’s specific contouring ensures that speedloaders can be used without obstruction, which is a critical functional consideration for a revolver accessory.

While the grip itself is not customizable in terms of interchangeable parts or colors, its purpose is to enhance the functionality of the existing firearm. It integrates seamlessly with the Taurus 85 and 856 models, effectively making the revolver itself more adaptable to different shooting scenarios without requiring external modifications to the firearm. The lack of extensive customization options is balanced by its highly effective, integrated design solution.

Pros and Cons of Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black

Who Should Buy Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black?

The Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black is an excellent choice for owners of the Taurus 85 or 856 revolver who find the factory grip too small for their hands or who want to improve their shooting control without adding significant bulk. It’s particularly beneficial for individuals who carry their revolver concealed and want the option of a more secure grip during range practice or defensive encounters. If you frequently use speedloaders, the thoughtful contouring will be a major advantage.

Anyone looking for a simple, effective way to enhance the ergonomics of their Taurus 85/856 should consider this grip. Users with larger hands will likely find it indispensable. Those who prioritize a compact, minimalist setup for deep concealment will appreciate the ability to retract the extension.

However, if you have very small hands and find the factory grip perfectly adequate, or if you do not own a Taurus 85 or 856 model, this specific grip is not for you. For those seeking sterile, medical-grade grips or grips for entirely different firearm platforms, this product would not be a suitable option.

Conclusion on Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black

The Pachmayr 02608 Guardian Grip Taurus 85/856 Polymer Black is a truly innovative accessory that delivers on its promise of blending concealed carry compactness with full-size shooting control. Its unique, deployable finger extension is a game-changer for revolvers like the Taurus 85/856, offering a significant improvement in grip security and recoil management without compromising concealability. The durable polymer composite construction, imperviousness to environmental factors, and thoughtful contouring for speedloader use further cement its value.

For its price of $51.99, the functionality and enhanced shooting experience it provides are well worth the investment. It transforms a capable compact revolver into a more forgiving and controllable platform, making it a highly recommended upgrade for any owner of the compatible Taurus models. If you own a Taurus 85 or 856 and struggle with grip or recoil control, this Pachmayr grip is a must-have.