Hogue S&W 39 Handgun Grip13 series Pau Ferro Checkered 13311 Review

The Hogue S&W 39 Handgun Grip13 series Pau Ferro Checkered 13311: First Use to Final Thoughts

For years, my Smith & Wesson Model 39 has been a reliable companion, a classic piece of engineering that demands the right touch. However, the original grips, while functional, had begun to show their age, offering less purchase than I preferred, especially during longer shooting sessions or in less-than-ideal conditions. The hunt for an upgrade led me to the Hogue S&W 39 Handgun Grip13 series Pau Ferro Checkered 13311, a set promising enhanced control and a refined aesthetic. I considered more utilitarian rubber replacements, but the allure of natural wood and Hogue’s reputation for quality kept drawing me back to this Pau Ferro option. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of understated elegance; the deep, rich color of the Pau Ferro wood and the crispness of the checkering immediately conveyed a sense of premium craftsmanship.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue S&W 39 Handgun Grip13 series Pau Ferro Checkered 13311 to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing ground for these grips was primarily my local indoor range, a controlled environment where I could focus on the tactile feedback and handling. I also took the Model 39 out for some dry practice at home, simulating various grip positions and draw strokes. The transition from the old grips to the new Hogue S&W 39 Handgun Grip13 series Pau Ferro Checkered 13311 was remarkably straightforward.

The feel in hand was an immediate upgrade. The checkering provided a secure, almost reassuring purchase without being overly aggressive, and the subtle contours of the Pau Ferro felt natural against my palm. There was no significant learning curve; it felt like an extension of the firearm rather than an add-on. One minor surprise was how the natural wood grain offered a slight warmth that synthetic grips often lack.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent range visits and regular handling, the Pau Ferro grips have held up exceptionally well. The checkering remains sharp and effective, showing no signs of smoothing or wear from my grip. Even after extended sessions where my hands might become slightly damp, the secure purchase was maintained without any hint of slippage.

Durability has been a strong suit. Unlike some wood grips that can be prone to cracking or chipping, these Hogue units have remained solid, even after a minor incident where the firearm was inadvertently set down a bit too firmly on a padded bench. Maintenance is a breeze; a quick wipe with a soft cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep them looking pristine. Compared to previous experiences with factory grips that sometimes felt slick after heavy use, or budget aftermarket options that degraded quickly, this Hogue offering demonstrates a level of longevity and consistent performance that justifies its place on a classic handgun.

Breaking Down the Features of Hogue S&W 39 Handgun Grip13 series Pau Ferro Checkered 13311

Specifications

The Hogue S&W 39 Handgun Grip13 series Pau Ferro Checkered 13311 are designed specifically for the Smith & Wesson Model 39 series of handguns, ensuring a precise fit. They are crafted from Pau Ferro wood, a dense hardwood known for its durability and attractive grain patterns. The defining feature is the full wrap-around checkered pattern, meticulously executed to provide maximum surface area for grip.

These specifications matter significantly in how the grips perform. The Pau Ferro offers a unique combination of hardness and a subtle warmth, distinguishing it from typical polymer or rubber materials. The checkered pattern is the star for functionality, directly enhancing weapon control and recoil management. Unlike thinner grips that might feel insubstantial, these provide a solid, ergonomic feel.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of any handgun grip is to enhance control and comfort, and the Pau Ferro checkered grips excel at this. The grip is consistently secure, even under the stress of recoil or when hands are not perfectly dry. This enhanced grip directly translates to more accurate follow-up shots, as the firearm stays stable in hand.

The strengths lie in the perfect marriage of material and texture. The Pau Ferro’s natural finish is smooth yet offers enough friction, while the deep checkering bites effectively without being abrasive. They meet and exceed expectations for a grip upgrade, offering a tangible improvement over standard factory options. The only potential area for improvement, depending on user preference, might be if one desired a significantly bulkier grip profile, which these do not offer by default.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of these grips is immediately apparent. The Pau Ferro wood feels substantial and well-finished, with a smooth, polished surface on non-checkered areas. The checkering itself is deep and cleanly cut, ensuring maximum engagement with the shooter’s hand.

Ergonomically, they are a revelation for the Model 39. The full wrap-around design fills the hand comfortably, providing a more substantial and natural grip angle. The checkered panels are strategically placed to cover the front and back straps, offering excellent contact points. These design elements combine to create a grip that feels both secure and comfortable for extended periods.

Durability & Maintenance

For a wooden grip, the Hogue S&W 39 Handgun Grip13 series Pau Ferro Checkered 13311 are impressively durable. Pau Ferro is a naturally dense and stable wood, making it resistant to the common issues of cracking or warping that can plague less robust hardwoods. After months of use, there are no signs of splitting or degradation.

Maintenance is straightforward; a simple wipe-down with a clean, dry cloth is usually sufficient. For deeper cleaning, a slightly damp cloth can be used, followed by a light buffing with a dry cloth. Avoid harsh solvents or excessive moisture. The primary potential maintenance concern for any wooden grip is avoiding impacts that could chip or crack the wood, though the dense nature of Pau Ferro mitigates this significantly.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hogue S&W 39 Handgun Grip13 series Pau Ferro Checkered 13311 are designed as a direct replacement and do not typically come with additional accessories. However, their purpose is to enhance the handgun itself, and they work in conjunction with the firearm’s existing components. There are no further customization options for the grips themselves, as they are a finished product from Hogue.

Pros and Cons of Hogue S&W 39 Handgun Grip13 series Pau Ferro Checkered 13311

Who Should Buy Hogue S&W 39 Handgun Grip13 series Pau Ferro Checkered 13311?

The Hogue S&W 39 Handgun Grip13 series Pau Ferro Checkered 13311 are ideally suited for owners of the Smith & Wesson Model 39 series handguns who prioritize a combination of enhanced shooting control and classic, refined aesthetics. If you find your current grips lacking in secure purchase, especially during vigorous use or in adverse conditions, these grips will be a substantial upgrade. They are perfect for the shooter who appreciates the feel and look of natural wood and wants to elevate the handling of their classic firearm.

Those who should perhaps skip this particular offering are individuals looking for the absolute lowest cost grip replacement or those who prefer the tactile feedback and shock absorption of modern polymer or rubber compounds. If your Model 39 is strictly a bedside gun that rarely sees the range, the aesthetic upgrade might outweigh the functional necessity, but the performance benefit is still considerable. Consider a good quality gun cleaning kit to maintain the wood’s finish.

Conclusion on Hogue S&W 39 Handgun Grip13 series Pau Ferro Checkered 13311

The Hogue S&W 39 Handgun Grip13 series Pau Ferro Checkered 13311 are a superb upgrade for any Smith & Wesson Model 39 owner. They strike an excellent balance between form and function, providing a truly enhanced shooting experience with a touch of timeless elegance. The quality of the Pau Ferro wood and the precision of the checkering are evident from the moment you hold them.

Considering their build quality, aesthetic appeal, and significant improvement in handling, the $99.99 price point feels justified for the performance and refinement they bring. I would readily recommend these grips to anyone seeking to optimize their Model 39’s performance and appearance. If you value a secure hold, a comfortable grip, and a classic look, these Hogue grips are a worthwhile investment that will likely serve you well for years to come.