Worth the Money? My Take on the Hogue Ruger Blackhawk/Vaquero Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 83935
For any firearm enthusiast, especially those who appreciate the classic lines and rugged reliability of Ruger’s Blackhawks and Vaqueros, the right grip can transform the shooting experience. I recently found myself in the market for an upgrade for my own Ruger, seeking a grip that offered both aesthetic appeal and enhanced handling. This led me to the Hogue Ruger Blackhawk/Vaquero Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 83935, a product that promised a blend of traditional beauty and modern functionality. My old grip was serviceable but lacked the refinement I was looking for, particularly in terms of comfort during extended shooting sessions and a more secure purchase. I considered a few other aftermarket options, including some synthetic materials, but the allure of natural rosewood and Hogue’s reputation for quality kept drawing me back to this particular model. The initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship and understated elegance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger Blackhawk/Vaquero Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 83935 to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing for this Hogue Ruger Blackhawk/Vaquero Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 83935 took place primarily at my local indoor range and during several extended plinking sessions out in the country. I wanted to simulate a variety of shooting scenarios, from rapid fire to slow, deliberate aimed shots. The grip was installed on my Ruger Blackhawk, and the immediate difference was noticeable. The feel in hand was significantly improved over the factory grip, offering a more substantial and comfortable hold.
The checkered rosewood provided excellent purchase, even with slightly sweaty palms after a few strings of fire. I experienced no slippage or discomfort, which was a welcome change. What surprised me most was how the “big butt” design, which I initially feared might be overly large, actually filled the palm more completely, providing a more stable shooting platform. It felt intuitive from the moment I attached it, requiring no significant adjustment period.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and hundreds of rounds through my Blackhawk, this Hogue grip has proven to be remarkably resilient. The rosewood has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of cracking, warping, or significant wear despite being exposed to varying temperatures and occasional dust. The checkering remains sharp and effective, providing the same confident grip as day one.
Cleaning and maintenance have been straightforward; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually all that’s needed, and it doesn’t require any special oils or treatments. Compared to some cheaper aftermarket grips I’ve used in the past, which could sometimes develop a slick or sticky feel over time, this rosewood grip maintains its tactile integrity. It’s definitely held up better than some of the hard polymer grips that tend to show scuffs and scratches easily.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger Blackhawk/Vaquero Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 83935
Specifications
The Hogue Ruger Blackhawk/Vaquero Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 83935 is crafted from genuine rosewood, a dense and attractive hardwood known for its durability and natural beauty. This particular model is designed specifically for Ruger Blackhawk and Vaquero revolvers, featuring a no finger groove design that allows for a more natural hand placement for a wider range of shooters. The big butt configuration offers a more substantial grip profile, which is particularly beneficial for absorbing recoil and providing a solid anchor point. The checkered texture is deeply cut, ensuring a secure, non-slip surface.
These specifications translate directly into improved shooting dynamics. The use of genuine rosewood not only offers a premium aesthetic but also provides a solid, consistent feel without the flex that can occur with some synthetic materials. The absence of finger grooves means the grip can be adjusted by the shooter for optimal hand placement, accommodating different palm sizes and shooting styles. The enlarged grip area, or “big butt,” is crucial for managing the stout recoil of magnum calibers often fired from these revolvers, distributing felt recoil more effectively across the palm. The deep checkering is paramount for maintaining control, especially during rapid firing sequences or when hands are moist.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of pure performance, the Hogue Ruger Blackhawk/Vaquero Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 83935 excels at enhancing the shooting experience of the Ruger platform. It significantly improves shot stability by providing a more consistent and secure grip. This leads to better accuracy, particularly for follow-up shots, as the handgun is less likely to shift in the hand between firing.
The primary strength of this grip is its ability to combine aesthetic appeal with tangible performance benefits. The smooth, polished rosewood feels good in hand, while the aggressive checkering ensures you won’t lose your grip. One minor weakness, if one can even call it that, is that some users might prefer a slightly less aggressive checkering pattern if they handle the firearm frequently without shooting. However, for the purpose of shooting, it’s ideal. It certainly meets, and in my experience, exceeds expectations for a premium aftermarket grip, especially considering its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this Hogue grip is a testament to thoughtful engineering blended with traditional craftsmanship. The rosewood material itself is visually striking, with a rich grain and warm tone that elevates the look of any revolver. The checkered panels are precisely executed, offering excellent tactile feedback without being overly abrasive on the skin during normal handling.
Ergonomically, the no finger groove design is a significant advantage, allowing for a truly customized hand position. This means a shooter can find the most comfortable and secure point of contact, which is crucial for accuracy and control. The big butt shape fills the palm effectively, which many find more comfortable and conducive to managing recoil than smaller, more traditional grip shapes. The overall build quality is immediately apparent; it feels substantial and well-finished, a far cry from the often flimsy feel of lower-quality grips.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of a grip is paramount, especially on a firearm designed for heavy use. This rosewood grip is built to last, with the inherent hardness and density of the wood providing excellent resistance to chips and scratches. Its resistance to moisture and oils is also noteworthy, a critical factor for any firearm accessory.
Maintenance is blessedly simple. A quick wipe-down after a range session is usually sufficient to keep it looking its best. For deeper cleaning, a slightly damp cloth or a dedicated wood cleaner will restore its luster. There are no complex parts to worry about, and the fit to the frame is snug, minimizing areas where dirt and debris can accumulate. I have yet to encounter any significant wear points, which speaks volumes about its robust construction.
Accessories and Customization Options
While this is primarily a standalone product, the Hogue Ruger Blackhawk/Vaquero Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 83935 itself represents a significant customization for the base firearm. It replaces the factory grip, offering a vastly different feel and appearance. There are no additional accessories included with the grip itself, as it’s designed to fit the existing frame of compatible Ruger models.
However, its compatibility with the revolver platform means it works seamlessly with a vast array of holsters and other firearm accessories. For example, ensuring you have a holster that accommodates the slightly larger profile of the “big butt” grip is important. While there are no built-in customization options for the grip itself, the no finger groove design inherently offers more flexibility in hand placement than a molded grip with fixed finger grooves.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger Blackhawk/Vaquero Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 83935
Pros
- Premium Aesthetics: Genuine rosewood offers a beautiful, classic look that significantly enhances the appearance of the firearm.
- Superior Grip and Control: The deep, aggressive checkering ensures a secure, non-slip hold, even under strenuous shooting conditions.
- Enhanced Comfort and Recoil Management: The “big butt” design fills the palm, improving comfort and aiding in taming recoil, especially with magnum loads.
- Versatile Hand Placement: The no finger groove configuration allows shooters to find their most comfortable and effective hand position.
- Durable Construction: Made from dense, high-quality rosewood, this grip is built to withstand significant use and maintain its integrity.
- Easy Maintenance: Requires minimal cleaning and care to keep it looking and performing its best.
Cons
- Price Point: As a premium material grip, it comes at a higher cost compared to basic synthetic replacements.
- Checkering Aggressiveness: While excellent for shooting, the checkering might feel a bit abrasive to some users during prolonged casual handling.
- Potential for Scratches: While durable, rosewood can still be susceptible to deep scratches if mishandled, unlike some more forgiving synthetic materials.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger Blackhawk/Vaquero Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 83935?
This grip is an excellent choice for owners of Ruger Blackhawk and Vaquero revolvers who are looking to upgrade from their factory grips for a more refined shooting experience. It’s ideal for experienced shooters who appreciate the tactile feedback and enhanced control that a quality grip provides, especially when shooting heavy recoiling calibers like .44 Magnum or .357 Magnum. Collectors and enthusiasts who value the classic aesthetic of fine wood on a revolver will also find this option highly appealing.
Anyone seeking a more comfortable and stable shooting platform, particularly those with larger hands who find standard grips insufficient, should strongly consider this model. However, if you prioritize extreme lightness, a purely utilitarian black appearance, or a very low budget, other options might be more suitable. For those looking for the best blend of form and function on their Ruger single-action revolver, this Hogue grip is a top contender.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger Blackhawk/Vaquero Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 83935
The Hogue Ruger Blackhawk/Vaquero Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 83935 is, without question, a premium upgrade for Ruger revolvers. It successfully marries the timeless beauty of rosewood with practical ergonomic enhancements that genuinely improve the shooting experience. The secure purchase offered by the deep checkering, combined with the comfortable fill provided by the “big butt” design and the versatile hand placement due to the lack of finger grooves, makes it a standout choice. While it represents a significant investment compared to basic grips, the performance, durability, and sheer aesthetic pleasure it provides fully justify the price for the discerning shooter. I would wholeheartedly recommend this grip to any owner of a compatible Ruger seeking to elevate both the handling and the classic appeal of their firearm.