Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22 Review

The Honest Truth About the Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22

For any shooter who values both form and function, the Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22 represent a significant upgrade over stock components. Manufactured by Volquartsen Firearms, these grips promise a more refined shooting experience through enhanced ergonomics and aesthetic appeal. My own journey to these grips began with a desire to improve my steady hold during target practice with my Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory. The factory grips, while adequate, lacked the subtle contours that encourage a consistent hand position, leading to minor inconsistencies I wanted to address. Upon unboxing, the immediate impression was one of solid craftsmanship; the laminated wood felt dense and the machining was precise, a welcome change from some aftermarket options that can feel brittle or poorly finished. I had briefly considered more budget-friendly rubberized grips, but the allure of a premium, purpose-built upgrade won out. The initial feel in hand was one of immediate promise, hinting at a more controlled and comfortable shooting session ahead.

Real-World Testing: Putting Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing took place at my local indoor range, a controlled environment perfect for assessing the subtle improvements these grips offer. I focused on extended shooting sessions, aiming to identify any discomfort or hot spots that might arise. The conditions were standard: consistent lighting and ambient temperature, with no significant external variables. The Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22 proved remarkably intuitive; the sculpted finger grooves and thumbrest immediately guided my hand into a natural, repeatable position. My only minor surprise was the slightly increased width, which, while beneficial for stability, took a few magazines to fully adapt to my grip preference.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, primarily for competitive target shooting and general plinking at the range, these laminated wood grips have held up exceptionally well. The CNC-machined laminated wood shows no signs of cracking, excessive wear, or loosening, even with frequent handling and exposure to the dust and oils inherent in a firearms environment. Cleaning is as simple as a wipe-down with a soft cloth and occasional mild cleaner, maintaining their smooth finish. Compared to previous experiences with cheaper, molded plastic grips that tend to become slick with sweat or develop wear patterns, these offer a far superior tactile experience and durability. The Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22 have undeniably become an integral part of my SW22 Victory’s setup.

Breaking Down the Features of Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22

Specifications

The Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22 are constructed from CNC-machined laminated wood, a material chosen for its density, durability, and attractive grain patterns. These handgun grips are specifically designed for the Smith & Wesson M&P 22 pistol, ensuring a precise fit. A key feature is the inclusion of an extended magazine release, which simplifies reloads during rapid firing sequences and is a significant advantage over standard, flush-mounted releases. The ergonomic design incorporates a thumbrest, a heelrest, and precisely shaped finger grooves all intended to provide a more relaxed and steadier hold. These grips are designed for pistols and are manufactured in the USA. It’s important to note that these are not compatible with S&W Performance Center models unless modifications are made.

The use of laminated wood contributes significantly to the grip’s solidity and resistance to environmental factors like humidity changes, which can cause traditional wood to swell or shrink. The CNC machining guarantees tight tolerances, meaning a secure fit with minimal wobble, unlike some less precisely made aftermarket parts. The extended magazine release is a standout specification for competitive shooters or anyone who values efficiency on the range; it dramatically reduces the distance needed to press the release, allowing for quicker magazine swaps. The integrated thumbrest and heelrest are crucial for shooters aiming for consistent hand placement, promoting a stable shooting platform that can translate to improved accuracy.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of primary function, the Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22 deliver exceptionally well. The enhanced ergonomics—specifically the thumbrest, heelrest, and finger grooves—create a far more natural and secure grip than the factory offering. This translates directly to a steadier aim and reduced muzzle flip, particularly noticeable during rapid fire strings. The extended magazine release is a game-changer for reloads; it’s significantly easier to find and depress without shifting your grip, saving valuable time. The overall performance boost in stability and control is palpable, making target shooting more enjoyable and rewarding.

However, there are minor functional considerations. As some user feedback suggests, the protrusion of the extended magazine release can be a double-edged sword. While excellent for quick swaps, if the pistol is laid down on its left side, the extended release can indeed catch and inadvertently eject the magazine. This is a trade-off for enhanced functionality that requires user awareness. Despite this, the core performance in terms of grip enhancement and stability is excellent, meeting and often exceeding expectations for this type of upgrade.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of these Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22 is a masterclass in blending aesthetics with practical function. The laminated wood provides a beautiful, classic look that elevates the firearm’s appearance, offering a rich aesthetic that synthetic grips simply cannot match. The CNC-machined contours are precise, with the finger grooves fitting my average-sized hands perfectly, encouraging a consistent grip index every time. The integrated thumbrest and heelrest are sculpted to provide natural resting points for the shooting hand, promoting a firm but relaxed hold.

Ergonomically, the grips feel substantial and solid, contributing to a perceived improvement in the pistol’s balance. The texture of the wood, even without aggressive checkering, provides ample grip, preventing slippage even with sweaty hands. The transition from the frame to the grip is seamless, with no sharp edges or noticeable gaps, indicative of Volquartsen Firearms‘ commitment to quality. The visual appeal is undeniable, transforming the utilitarian SW22 into a more refined firearm.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of these grips is a significant selling point, directly tied to their construction from CNC-machined laminated wood. In my experience, this material is remarkably robust and resistant to the stresses of regular firearm use. Unlike softer rubber grips that can tear or wear down where the hand makes contact, or basic wood that might be prone to splintering, the laminated construction provides a dense, stable core. I have encountered no signs of cracking, delamination, or loosening even after months of consistent range sessions.

Maintenance is refreshingly straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a soft, damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and grime from the range. For more persistent marks, a mild gun cleaning solution applied to a cloth can be used, followed by a dry wipe. It’s crucial to avoid harsh solvents that could damage the wood finish. The extended magazine release itself is also made of durable material and has shown no signs of wear or malfunction. The overall maintenance requirement is minimal, making them a practical choice for frequent shooters.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22 come with one particularly noteworthy accessory: an extended magazine release. This component is a functional upgrade in itself, designed to improve the speed and ease of magazine changes. It’s a direct replacement for the factory magazine release and requires no modification to install. While these grips do not offer further user customization in terms of interchangeable panels or grip sleeves, their inherent design—the thumbrest, heelrest, and finger grooves—provides a fixed, optimized ergonomic profile. The beauty of their design lies in the sculpted form of the grips themselves.

Pros and Cons of Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22

Who Should Buy Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22?

The Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22 are an ideal upgrade for dedicated target shooters and competitive shooters who want to maximize the performance and comfort of their SW22 Victory. Anyone who appreciates fine craftsmanship and wants to enhance the handling characteristics of their pistol will find these grips immensely satisfying. They are particularly well-suited for individuals with average to larger hands who can take full advantage of the integrated thumbrest and finger grooves.

However, those looking for the absolute most budget-friendly option, or who are primarily concerned with extreme compactness for concealed carry, might find these grips less suitable. Additionally, owners of S&W Performance Center SW22 models will need to look elsewhere or be prepared for potential modifications. For optimal use, ensuring you are aware of the extended magazine release’s placement when setting the firearm down is crucial; those who frequently lay their pistol on its left side might want to consider a different magazine release or simply practice caution.

Conclusion on Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22

The Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22 are, without question, a premium upgrade that delivers substantial improvements in both ergonomics and aesthetics. The CNC-machined laminated wood construction provides a durable, attractive finish that elevates the firearm’s overall appeal. The thoughtfully designed thumbrest, heelrest, and finger grooves create a remarkably comfortable and consistent grip, which directly translates to enhanced control and potentially better shooting accuracy. The inclusion of an extended magazine release is a valuable functional bonus, streamlining reloads for those who demand efficiency.

While the $154.00 price point positions these as a significant investment, the quality of materials, precision machining, and tangible performance benefits justify the cost for serious shooters. The only notable drawback is the potential for accidental magazine release if the firearm is laid on its left side, a trade-off for the enhanced release functionality. For owners of the standard SW22 seeking to refine their shooting experience and add a touch of class, the Volquartsen Firearms Laminated Wood Grips for the SW22 come with a strong recommendation. They transform a capable rimfire pistol into a truly refined shooting instrument.