Does the Hogue Ruger Security Six Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove Stripe Cap Checkered 87631 Deliver?
For those who appreciate the classic lines and robust build of a Ruger Security Six, maintaining its tactile feel and aesthetic appeal is paramount. My search for a grip replacement that honored the firearm’s heritage while offering enhanced comfort led me to the Hogue Ruger Security Six Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove Stripe Cap Checkered 87631. This particular model promises a premium look and feel, deviating from the utilitarian rubber grips often seen.
My own Security Six, a trusty companion through various informal range days and general handling, had begun to show its age. The original grips, while functional, lacked a certain refinement and offered a less-than-ideal purchase in extended shooting sessions. I was specifically looking for a wood grip that offered a clean, traditional profile without the molded finger grooves that can sometimes feel intrusive.
Upon receiving this Hogue Ruger Security Six Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove Stripe Cap Checkered 87631, the initial impression was one of considerable quality. The Kingwood material itself presented a deep, rich color with subtle grain variations that spoke of careful selection and finishing. It felt substantial and well-crafted from the outset.
Alternatives considered included less exotic wood species or even high-end synthetic options that mimicked wood, but none offered the specific combination of Kingwood, checkered pattern, and the absence of finger grooves that this Hogue grip provided. Receiving this grip brought a sense of satisfaction, a feeling that my Security Six was about to receive an upgrade worthy of its design legacy.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger Security Six Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove Stripe Cap Checkered 87631 to the Test
My testing primarily took place at my home workshop and on the range during several focused shooting sessions. The Security Six, equipped with the new grips, was handled extensively in a controlled workshop environment before any live fire. This allowed me to assess the fit and initial feel without the added complexities of recoil.
The grips performed admirably in these initial handling tests. Their smooth, yet positively textured checkered pattern provided a secure purchase, even with slightly dry hands. The Kingwood felt warm and natural in the palm, a welcome contrast to the cold, often clammy feel of some synthetic materials.
Ease of installation was surprisingly straightforward. The grips fit snugly onto the frame with minimal fuss, aligning perfectly with the screw points. No filing or extensive manipulation was needed, which is always a good sign for aftermarket parts.
The only minor surprise was how much cleaner the overall aesthetic of the firearm became with the removal of the old, worn grips. This specific model’s stripe cap design lent a particularly sharp and refined appearance.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular handling, including a couple of range days and keeping the revolver on my bench for easy access, the Hogue Ruger Security Six Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove Stripe Cap Checkered 87631 continued to impress. The grips held their position firmly without any loosening of the screws or shifting against the frame.
Durability has been excellent so far. The Kingwood shows no signs of cracking, delamination, or excessive wear despite being handled frequently. The checkered pattern remains sharp and effective, offering consistent traction without being abrasive.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a soft cloth is usually all that’s needed to remove dust or light fingerprints. For deeper cleaning, a mild wood cleaner followed by a light application of furniture polish restored the luster effectively.
Compared to the stock grips or other generic aftermarket options I’ve used over the years, these Hogue grips offer a significant upgrade in both feel and aesthetics. They strike a good balance between premium appearance and practical functionality, something often lacking in simpler wood grip offerings.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger Security Six Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove Stripe Cap Checkered 87631
Specifications
The Hogue Ruger Security Six Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove Stripe Cap Checkered 87631 is designed as a direct replacement for the factory grips on the Ruger Security Six platform. It features a Kingwood construction, known for its dense nature and striking, deep reddish-brown to purplish hue. The grip utilizes a checkered pattern across its surface for enhanced tactile feedback and a secure hold.
Crucially, this model is specifically “No Finger Groove,” meaning it presents a smooth, contoured surface without the molded indentations for individual fingers. This allows the shooter to find their preferred grip position more freely. The “Stripe Cap Checkered” detail refers to a specific design element of the checkering and potentially the top section of the grip for added visual flair and grip reinforcement.
This design philosophy translates into a grip that prioritizes a classic, unadulterated feel. The absence of finger grooves offers versatility, accommodating a wider range of hand sizes and shooting styles than grips with pre-defined finger placements. The fine checkering provides positive traction without being overly aggressive or uncomfortable for extended periods.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of performance, this Hogue grip excels at enhancing the shooting experience of the Ruger Security Six. The Kingwood material provides a solid, substantial feel in the hand that contributes to better firearm stability. The checkered grip surface ensures a confident, non-slip hold, even during rapid firing sequences where hand tension can increase.
The primary strength lies in its ergonomic adaptation. Without finger grooves, it allows the shooter to naturally find their hand placement, making it suitable for various shooting disciplines. Its main weakness, if one can call it that, is that it doesn’t offer the specific, tailored support that some shooters might prefer from molded finger grooves.
For its intended purpose of replacing factory grips with a premium, aesthetically pleasing, and functionally superior alternative, this grip largely meets and often exceeds expectations. The improvement in control and comfort is immediately noticeable, especially when compared to older or less refined grip options.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Hogue Ruger Security Six Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove Stripe Cap Checkered 87631 is a clear nod to traditional firearm aesthetics. The use of Kingwood lends an immediate sense of luxury and classic craftsmanship. The finish on the Kingwood is smooth and lustrous, highlighting the natural beauty of the wood.
Ergonomically, the grip is well-contoured to fill the hand comfortably. The absence of finger grooves is a deliberate design choice that prioritizes adaptability. The checkering is precisely cut, offering a pleasant tactile sensation that aids in preventing the handgun from shifting during recoil.
Practical design details like the seamless integration with the Security Six frame and the well-finished edges contribute to its overall user-friendliness. There is no real learning curve; it feels natural and intuitive from the moment you grasp it.
Durability & Maintenance
Regarding durability, wood grips, especially dense hardwoods like Kingwood, tend to be quite resilient. Under typical shooting conditions, this Hogue grip is expected to last for many years, offering a long service life. The checkering is deeply cut, suggesting it will resist wear longer than shallower engraving.
Maintenance is minimal, primarily involving keeping the grips clean and occasionally conditioning the wood if it appears dry. Unlike some synthetic materials that can degrade or become brittle over time, well-maintained wood typically ages gracefully. I’ve had no concerns about its long-term viability or potential failure points.
Accessories and Customization Options
The primary function of this product is as a direct replacement grip; therefore, it doesn’t come with additional accessories in the typical sense. However, the Hogue Ruger Security Six Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove Stripe Cap Checkered 87631 does include the necessary grip screws for installation.
The “customization” aspect comes from the choice of material and finish itself. While this specific review focuses on the Kingwood variant, Hogue often offers similar grips in different materials or finishes for various firearms. For the Ruger Security Six, the choice of a no finger groove model with checkering is itself a significant customization over factory offerings.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger Security Six Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove Stripe Cap Checkered 87631
Pros
- Premium Material: The use of Kingwood provides a visually stunning and luxurious aesthetic, elevating the firearm’s appearance significantly.
- Enhanced Grip: The precisely executed checkering offers excellent traction, ensuring a secure and stable hold during shooting.
- Ergonomic Versatility: The “No Finger Groove” design accommodates a wide range of hand sizes and shooting styles comfortably.
- Superior Comfort: The natural feel and smooth finish of the wood make for a more comfortable shooting experience, especially during extended sessions.
- Direct Fit: Designed for the Ruger Security Six, ensuring a snug and secure fit with minimal effort required for installation.
Cons
- Price Point: As a premium material, Kingwood comes with a higher price tag compared to standard rubber or basic wood grips.
- Wood Sensitivity: While durable, wood can be susceptible to extreme environmental changes (prolonged moisture or dryness) if not properly cared for.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger Security Six Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove Stripe Cap Checkered 87631?
This grip is an ideal choice for Ruger Security Six owners who appreciate fine craftsmanship and want to enhance both the aesthetics and the tactile experience of their firearm. It is perfect for those who prefer a classic, uncluttered grip profile without molded finger grooves. Enthusiasts looking for a premium upgrade that offers superior comfort and control during range sessions will find this grip highly satisfying.
However, individuals seeking the most budget-friendly option or those who specifically require molded finger grooves for a highly tailored fit might want to consider alternatives. Shooters who frequently expose their firearms to extreme conditions without adequate care for wood products might also want to weigh the material’s properties.
For an even better range experience, consider pairing these grips with a comfortable range bag and quality ear and eye protection.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger Security Six Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove Stripe Cap Checkered 87631
The Hogue Ruger Security Six Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove Stripe Cap Checkered 87631 represents a significant upgrade for any Ruger Security Six owner looking for more than just a functional grip. The use of beautiful Kingwood, combined with precise checkering and a thoughtful “No Finger Groove” design, results in a product that is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the hand.
While the premium nature of the Kingwood means a higher investment, the enhanced comfort, superior grip, and timeless aesthetic easily justify the cost for those who value quality. It transforms the feel of the firearm, making extended shooting sessions more enjoyable and precise.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this grip to anyone seeking to personalize and improve their Ruger Security Six. It’s a testament to Hogue’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and offers a truly premium experience for a classic revolver.