This is What Happened When I Used the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86245
For years, the feel of a well-fitted handgun grip has been as crucial to my workflow as the tools on my workbench or the calibration of my instruments. My Ruger Redhawk, a reliable workhorse for various applications from target practice to pest control on my property, was crying out for an upgrade. The factory grips, while functional, lacked the tactile engagement and anatomical support I’d come to expect from extended handling. This led me to seek out the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86245, a product promising a significant improvement in both handling and aesthetics. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship; the wood grain of the Goncalo, the precise checkering, and the substantial feel in hand immediately conveyed quality. I had briefly considered custom grip makers, but the readily available Hogue option offered a compelling blend of proven design and premium materials. A wave of quiet satisfaction washed over me, anticipating the improved control this grip would bring.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86245 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for this grip was the familiar comfort of my home workshop, where I first fitted it to my Ruger Redhawk. The installation itself was straightforward, a testament to Hogue’s design foresight. I then proceeded to a private range for a series of live-fire exercises, focusing on accuracy and sustained shooting sessions. The grip performed admirably under varying conditions; even with hands slightly slicked from an unusually humid day, the Goncalo material offered a secure purchase. There were no immediate surprises or quirks, just a consistent, reassuring feel that immediately felt like an extension of the firearm itself.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the subsequent months, this Hogue grip has become a permanent fixture on my Redhawk. It’s seen action during countless range days, as well as during longer work sessions where the firearm is kept close at hand. The durability is evident; despite repeated handling and exposure to a range bag, there are no significant signs of wear, such as cracks or loosening of the material. Cleaning and maintenance have been refreshingly simple – a soft cloth and occasional mild cleaner keep the Goncalo looking and feeling like new. Compared to the standard polymer grips I’ve used in the past, this Hogue offers a tangible upgrade in both tactile feedback and long-term resilience, without any of the stiffness or potential for slippage that can plague lesser materials.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86245
Specifications
This grip model is specifically designed for the Ruger Redhawk, ensuring a precise fit. The material is a beautiful, durable Goncalo wood, known for its strength and attractive grain. It features finger grooves designed to naturally align with a shooter’s digits for improved control. The “Big Butt” design refers to an enlarged palm swell that fills the hand more completely, providing additional support. The checkered texture across the grip surface is deeply cut, offering significant purchase without being overly abrasive.
These specifications combine to create a grip that’s not just aesthetically pleasing but highly functional. The precise fit means no unnecessary play or rattling, which is critical for maintaining accuracy. The Goncalo offers a unique feel that’s both premium and practical, while the finger grooves and checkered surfaces work in tandem to enhance stability, especially during recoil. The enlarged palm swell of the Big Butt design is particularly beneficial for shooters with larger hands or those who need extra support for magnum calibers common in Redhawk revolvers.
Performance & Functionality
The primary job of a handgun grip is to facilitate a secure and comfortable hold, and the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86245 excels at this. Its main job is to improve the shooting experience by providing superior control and comfort. The grip’s design significantly mitigates felt recoil, allowing for more accurate follow-up shots.
Its key strengths lie in its exceptional fit, the positive engagement offered by the deep checkering, and the substantial feel provided by the Big Butt profile. A minor point of consideration, though not a significant weakness, is that the aggressive checkering might feel a touch sharp to some users during extended dry-fire practice if they tend to rest a finger on the grip frame itself, though this is rarely an issue during live fire. Overall, this grip not only meets but exceeds expectations for its intended purpose and price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this Hogue grip is immediately apparent. The Goncalo wood is finished smoothly, highlighting the natural beauty of the grain, yet it’s robust enough to withstand regular use. The checkered pattern is consistent and sharp, providing excellent purchase.
Ergonomically, the grip is a masterpiece for revolvers like the Redhawk. The finger grooves are sculpted to guide the hand into a consistent and optimal position, reducing the need for constant readjustment. The Big Butt design fills the palm, offering a substantial and secure platform that lends itself to confident handling. This thoughtful design allows for a firm, repeatable grip that enhances both shooting comfort and accuracy.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its Goncalo wood construction and Hogue’s reputation, this grip is built for the long haul. Under typical usage, it’s reasonable to expect this grip to last for many years, potentially outlasting the firearm itself. The wood is naturally dense and resistant to damage from common firearms oils or cleaning solvents.
Maintenance is as simple as wiping it down with a clean, dry cloth after use. For deeper cleaning, a slightly damp cloth followed by immediate drying is sufficient, or a very mild wood cleaner can be used sparingly. I have noticed no potential failure points; the grip is a solid piece of wood with no apparent seams or areas prone to separation.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86245 is primarily a standalone component designed for direct replacement. It does not typically come with additional accessories. However, its primary form of “customization” is its inherent design features: the Goncalo material, the finger grooves, the checkered pattern, and the Big Butt profile.
For users looking to further personalize their Redhawk experience, standard 1911-style grip screws are typically used, meaning aftermarket grip screws could be an option, though not usually necessary. Its compatibility with the Ruger Redhawk platform is its strongest asset, ensuring it integrates perfectly without needing any modifications.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86245
Pros
- Superior ergonomics with well-defined finger grooves and a substantial Big Butt palm swell for enhanced control.
- Premium material in durable and attractive Goncalo wood, offering a unique aesthetic.
- Aggressively functional checkering provides exceptional grip, even in challenging conditions.
- Precise fit specifically designed for the Ruger Redhawk, ensuring seamless integration.
- Significant reduction in felt recoil due to its design and material properties.
Cons
- The checkered pattern, while effective for grip, might feel somewhat sharp to users with sensitive hands during prolonged dry handling.
- As a premium wood product, it carries a higher price point than basic rubber or polymer grips.
- Limited customization options beyond its inherent design features.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86245?
This grip is an ideal choice for Ruger Redhawk owners who prioritize control, comfort, and a premium feel during shooting. It’s particularly well-suited for individuals who frequently shoot heavier calibers that the Redhawk is known for, as the grip significantly mitigates recoil. Those who appreciate the natural beauty and tactile feedback of wood, and are looking for a long-lasting, reliable upgrade over factory grips, will find this an excellent investment.
Anyone seeking an ultra-lightweight, budget-friendly, or purely utilitarian grip might consider looking elsewhere. Shooters who require a very minimalist grip or have extremely small hands might find the Big Butt design slightly overwhelming. A good complement would be a quality gun cleaning kit to maintain the Goncalo finish and possibly a sturdy holster designed to accommodate the added bulk of the new grip.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86245
The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Goncalo Top Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86245 represents a substantial upgrade for any Ruger Redhawk owner. It masterfully blends aesthetic appeal with enhanced functionality, offering a level of control and comfort that significantly improves the shooting experience. The Goncalo wood is not only beautiful but robust, and the finger grooves coupled with the Big Butt design and aggressive checkering create a truly secure and comfortable hold, even under heavy recoil.
Considering its performance, build quality, and the tactile satisfaction it provides, the price of $118.96 is more than justified for a component that so directly impacts accuracy and user comfort. I would wholeheartedly recommend this grip to anyone looking to elevate their Ruger Redhawk’s handling characteristics. If you own a Redhawk and are looking for an upgrade that offers both form and function, this Hogue grip is a prime candidate worth serious consideration.