From Curiosity to Confidence: My Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Stripe/Cap 66320 Review
For anyone who values a solid, reliable grip on their firearm, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Stripe/Cap 66320 presents a compelling option. With over a decade spent wrestling with equipment in environments ranging from dusty workshops to sterile labs and rugged outdoor excursions, I’ve learned that the seemingly minor details, like a good grip, can make or break an experience. My existing grips on my Taurus square butt revolver, while functional, were showing their age and lacking the tactile feedback necessary for precise control, especially during longer shooting sessions. I was looking for something that offered a more refined feel and, crucially, a more secure purchase without sacrificing the classic aesthetics of the firearm. After a brief scan of alternatives, including custom wood panels and basic rubber replacements, the Pau Ferro stripe/cap design from Hogue caught my eye. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of immediate satisfaction; the weight felt substantial, and the combination of Pau Ferro wood and Hogue’s signature grip material promised a blend of tradition and modern function. This seemed like the right upgrade to restore confidence and comfort to my shooting.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Stripe/Cap 66320 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local indoor range, a controlled environment where consistent grip is paramount for tight groupings. I fitted the grips onto my Taurus revolver, and the process was straightforward, requiring minimal adjustment. The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Stripe/Cap 66320 felt immediately different – more substantial and ergonomically contoured than the factory grips. Even with the relatively clean air of the range, I noticed how the textured Pau Ferro panels offered a secure purchase, preventing any slight hand slippage.
During an extended session, firing over 100 rounds, the comfort factor became truly apparent. My hand remained remarkably fatigue-free, a stark contrast to previous experiences with less forgiving grips. I experienced no adverse reactions, surprising hiccups, or unintended consequences with this new grip.
Extended Use & Reliability
Weeks turned into a couple of months, and these grips have become a permanent fixture on my Taurus. I’ve taken them to outdoor ranges, some with less-than-ideal weather conditions including light rain and dampness, and their performance has remained consistently high. The Pau Ferro wood and synthetic combination has shown no signs of degradation or stiffness, even after being handled with slightly sweaty hands.
Durability has been excellent so far. There are no visible cracks, no loosening of the materials, and the texturing remains as effective as day one. Cleaning is as simple as a quick wipe down with a slightly damp cloth and perhaps a touch of mild soap if any residue builds up. I’ve found no need for specialized cleaners, and they dry quickly.
Compared to the generic rubber grips I’ve used on other firearms, which often become sticky or wear down their texture over time, these Hogue grips feel built to last. They strike a balance, offering a sophisticated look without compromising the robust performance needed for regular firearm use.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Stripe/Cap 66320
Specifications
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Stripe/Cap 66320 is designed specifically for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with square butt configurations. It features a beautiful Pau Ferro wood inlay, known for its rich color and durable grain, complemented by Hogue’s proprietary synthetic grip material. This combination provides a dual-texture experience: the smooth, polished wood offers a classic aesthetic and a firm anchor point, while the textured synthetic material ensures positive contact and slip resistance. The grip is engineered for a precise fit, ensuring it wraps securely around the revolver’s frame without any gapping.
The Pau Ferro is chosen for its resilience and attractive appearance, offering a refined look that stands out from plain rubber or basic plastic. Hogue’s synthetic material, often referred to as their “G10” or similar proprietary compounds, is selected for its resistance to oils, solvents, and the elements, ensuring longevity and consistent performance. The “Stripe/Cap” designation refers to the design where the wood forms a distinct stripe along the backstrap and potentially wraps around the butt cap, providing both aesthetic appeal and functional grip enhancement. This blend of materials and precise engineering means the grip enhances control and comfort significantly during firing.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of a handgun grip is to provide a secure and comfortable interface between the shooter and the firearm, and this Hogue grip excels. The superior purchase it offers is immediately noticeable, reducing the felt recoil and allowing for quicker follow-up shots. The combination of the smooth Pau Ferro and the textured synthetic material creates a tactile feedback that informs your hand placement, leading to more consistent shooting.
Its main strength lies in its ergonomic design and material synergy. The grip naturally fills the hand, providing a substantial feel that inspires confidence. A minor point of consideration could be that the polished Pau Ferro might become slicker if heavily exposed to certain gun oils or solvents, though in my testing, this was not a significant issue. Overall, it meets and exceeds expectations for a premium aftermarket grip, especially considering the aesthetic upgrade it provides.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this Hogue grip is immediately apparent. The Pau Ferro wood is beautifully finished, showcasing its natural grain and warm tones, while the synthetic components feel robust and precisely molded. There is no extraneous flash or rough edges; it’s a clean, professional finish that speaks to quality manufacturing.
Ergonomically, the grip is a triumph. It offers a comfortable fill for medium to large hands, aligning perfectly with the natural contours of the palm and fingers. The transition between the wood and the textured synthetic is seamless, eliminating any potential hot spots. The added texture on the synthetic portions provides excellent purchase, even when firing rapidly or under stress.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the materials used, this grip is built for the long haul. The Pau Ferro is a dense hardwood, and Hogue’s synthetic material is chosen for its inherent toughness. Under normal use, I expect this grip to last for many years, resisting the wear and tear that plagues less robust options.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A soft brush can dislodge any dust or debris, and a damp cloth is usually sufficient for cleaning. For deeper cleaning, a mild soap solution works well, followed by a thorough drying. I would advise avoiding harsh chemicals that could potentially degrade the wood finish or the synthetic material over extended periods, though this is standard practice for most quality firearm accessories.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Stripe/Cap 66320 comes as a complete replacement unit and does not typically include additional accessories. Its primary customization aspect is its inherent aesthetic appeal provided by the Pau Ferro wood. It is designed to be a direct fit for specific Taurus models, and as such, it doesn’t usually offer compatibility with third-party components like grip panels or extensions, as it is already a full grip solution.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Stripe/Cap 66320
Pros
- Superior Comfort and Control: The ergonomic design and dual-texture material provide an exceptionally secure and comfortable grip, reducing felt recoil.
- Premium Aesthetic: The Pau Ferro wood inlay offers a distinguished, classic look that significantly enhances the firearm’s visual appeal.
- Durable Construction: Made from high-quality wood and robust synthetic materials, this grip is built to withstand rigorous use.
- Precise Fit: Engineered for specific Taurus models, ensuring a snug and secure fit with no looseness or play.
- Enhanced Shooting Experience: Contributes to improved accuracy and confidence due to a more stable and comfortable shooting platform.
Cons
- Price Point: As a premium aftermarket accessory, it commands a higher price than basic rubber or plastic grips.
- Specific Fitment: Designed for Taurus square butt revolvers only, limiting its application to certain firearm models.
- Wood Vulnerability: While durable, the Pau Ferro wood can potentially be affected by prolonged exposure to harsh solvents or extreme moisture if not properly maintained.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Stripe/Cap 66320?
This grip is an excellent choice for owners of Taurus medium and large frame square butt revolvers who are looking to upgrade both the performance and aesthetics of their firearm. If you are a shooter who prioritizes comfort during extended range sessions or seeks a more confident hold for defensive applications, this grip will serve you well. It’s ideal for those who appreciate the blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern materials.
However, individuals seeking a purely utilitarian, no-frills grip, or those who own firearms with different grip frames (e.g., round butt, or different manufacturers) should look elsewhere. If your primary concern is budget, you might find more affordable options, though they will likely compromise on both feel and appearance. For those who appreciate fine firearms and want to invest in an accessory that truly elevates the shooting experience, this is a solid choice. A good bore snake and quality ammunition are always recommended companions for any firearm, and these grips will enhance their effective use.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Stripe/Cap 66320
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Stripe/Cap 66320 is more than just a replacement part; it’s an enhancement that transforms the shooting experience. The combination of superior ergonomics, durable materials, and the striking beauty of the Pau Ferro wood makes it a worthwhile investment for any Taurus square butt revolver owner. It delivers on its promise of improved comfort and control, making shooting sessions more enjoyable and precise.
The price, while higher than standard options, is justified by the exceptional quality, aesthetic appeal, and the tangible difference it makes in handling. For those who value both form and function, and own the specific Taurus models it’s designed for, I can confidently recommend this grip. It’s a testament to Hogue’s reputation for producing top-tier firearm accessories that truly make a difference.