How the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip LamoCamo Checkered 65401 Changed My Routine
For years, I’ve been a staunch advocate for personalized firearm ergonomics, believing that a comfortable and secure grip is fundamental to accurate and safe shooting. My personal collection includes a variety of Taurus revolvers, many of which have served me exceptionally well over the years in various capacities, from casual range days to more involved practical shooting exercises. However, the stock grips, while functional, always left a little to be desired when it came to sustained handling or in less-than-ideal weather conditions. The stock rubber, while offering some tackiness, often felt a bit too “sticky” and prone to attracting lint and debris, making a clean draw feel less consistent than I preferred.
I stumbled upon the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip LamoCamo Checkered 65401 while browsing for accessories to enhance the feel and performance of a particular Taurus revolver that had been a bit of a challenge to grip consistently. I had previously experimented with some aftermarket grips from other manufacturers, but none quite hit the mark for both aesthetics and tangible improvement. This Hogue model promised a blend of aggressive texture and a visually striking camouflage pattern, ticking several boxes for me. My initial impression upon receiving the package was one of solid craftsmanship; the material felt robust, and the molded patterns were sharp and well-defined. It offered a sense of immediate potential for improvement over the factory offerings.
First Use Experience
My initial testing of the Hogue grips took place on my home range, a modest setup in my backyard that allows for frequent practice without the need to travel. I installed the grips on a Taurus Model 66, a medium-large frame revolver known for its comfortable handling but also one that benefits greatly from enhanced grip security. The installation was straightforward; the grip slid onto the frame with a snug, precise fit, indicating good manufacturing tolerances.
The first few shots were revealing. The Lamo Camo pattern, while visually distinctive, also provided a surprisingly effective texture. It offered a positive purchase without being abrasive, a delicate balance that many grips fail to achieve. Even with a light dusting of propellant residue and the minor sweat generated from a few rapid strings, the grip remained secure.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the following weeks, I incorporated the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip LamoCamo Checkered 65401 into my regular training regimen. This included multiple range sessions, handling the firearm during dry-fire drills, and even carrying it concealed for a day to assess its feel under a jacket. The durability has been impressive; despite being handled frequently and subjected to the occasional brush against a holster or table, there are no signs of premature wear.
Compared to the stock rubber grips I had been using, these Hogue grips offer a significant advantage in terms of consistent handling. The checkered pattern bites just enough to provide confidence, even when my hands might be slightly slick from an unexpected downpour during an outdoor excursion or from a long day in a humid workshop. Cleaning is also a breeze; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and a mild degreaser removes any accumulated grime, restoring the grip’s aesthetic appeal and tactile feel without issue. This level of resilience and ease of maintenance has been a welcome contrast to some budget alternatives I’ve tried in the past that would quickly become slick or even brittle.
Specifications
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip LamoCamo Checkered 65401 is specifically designed for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with a round butt grip frame. This means it’s a direct fit for a number of popular Taurus models, eliminating the need for custom fitting or extensive modification. The grip is constructed from a durable, proprietary rubber-like polymer, a material known for its resilience and ability to provide a solid grip in various conditions.
The most striking specification is its Lamo Camo finish. This isn’t just a cosmetic flourish; the pattern is deeply molded into the material, ensuring it won’t wear off easily. Complementing the camouflage is the aggressive checkered texture across the palm swell and finger grooves (if applicable to the specific model it fits). This combination of material and texture is engineered to enhance shooter control and reduce felt recoil, two critical factors for accurate shooting. Unlike some thinner grip panels, this Hogue offers a fuller, more substantial feel in the hand, which can be particularly beneficial for shooters with larger hands or those who prefer a more robust grip purchase.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function—providing a secure and comfortable grip—the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip LamoCamo Checkered 65401 excels. The checkered panels offer exceptional purchase, allowing for a solid firing grip that inspires confidence even during rapid fire or when shooting heavier calibers. This enhanced control directly translates to improved accuracy, as the shooter can focus more on the sight picture and trigger pull rather than worrying about their hand slipping.
The material is also noteworthy for its ability to absorb recoil. While not a shock absorber in the same way a fully padded grip might be, the slight give in the polymer combined with the enhanced grip security helps to mitigate muzzle flip, allowing for quicker follow-up shots. Its main job is done exceptionally well, providing a stable platform for the firearm.
The Lamo Camo finish, while visually appealing to many, is functionally inert for grip enhancement, but it doesn’t detract from the grip’s performance. It simply adds a distinct aesthetic.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip LamoCamo Checkered 65401 is a clear win for shooters prioritizing control and comfort. The Hogue brand is renowned for its ergonomic designs, and this grip is no exception. It’s molded to fill the hand comfortably, promoting a consistent grip angle shot after shot.
The checkered surfaces are precisely applied, offering just the right amount of friction. They are sharp enough to provide a secure hold but not so aggressive as to cause discomfort during extended shooting sessions. The material itself has a slightly tacky feel that complements the checkering, creating a surface that feels both secure and comfortable against the skin.
The overall build quality is evident from the moment you handle it. The material feels substantial, and the fit to the Taurus frame is precise, with no noticeable gaps or looseness. This attention to detail in both material choice and ergonomic sculpting makes for a grip that feels like a natural extension of the firearm.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of these grips has been a pleasant surprise. Made from a robust, proprietary polymer, they’ve proven resistant to impacts, abrasions, and the general wear and tear of regular use. I’ve accidentally dropped a revolver equipped with these grips onto a concrete workshop floor from a modest height, and the grips emerged with only minor scuffs, no cracks or deformities.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and light dirt. For more stubborn residue, a small amount of mild soap and water or a dedicated firearm cleaning solution works effectively. The Lamo Camo pattern doesn’t seem to hold onto dirt, and the checkered texture cleans out easily. There are no obvious failure points; the material feels solid throughout, and the way it conforms to the frame suggests it will last for a very long time.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip LamoCamo Checkered 65401 is primarily a replacement part rather than a system that typically comes with numerous accessories. Its strength lies in its direct application and immediate enhancement of the firearm’s ergonomics. However, it’s worth noting that Hogue offers these grips in various patterns and finishes, allowing for some aesthetic customization beyond the Lamo Camo option.
While there are no included accessories, the grip itself is designed for ease of installation, often requiring only a simple screw or two depending on the firearm model. Its compatibility is strictly with Taurus revolvers featuring the medium & large round butt frame; it’s not designed to be adapted for other firearm types or frame shapes, ensuring a secure and factory-like fit for its intended purpose.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip LamoCamo Checkered 65401
Pros
- Superior Grip and Control: The aggressive checkered texture provides exceptional purchase, significantly enhancing handling and confidence, especially in adverse conditions.
- Ergonomic Design: Hogue‘s reputation for comfortable and functional grip design is evident, offering a natural feel that promotes a consistent shooting stance.
- Durable Material: Constructed from a tough, proprietary polymer, these grips are built to withstand rigorous use and resist wear and tear.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The distinctive Lamo Camo pattern offers a unique and attractive look that sets your firearm apart.
- Easy Installation and Maintenance: The grips are designed for straightforward fitment and are simple to clean, requiring minimal effort to keep them in good condition.
Cons
- Model Specific Fitment: Designed exclusively for Taurus medium and large frame round butt revolvers, limiting compatibility.
- Aesthetic May Not Suit Everyone: The Lamo Camo finish, while distinctive, might not align with more traditional or minimalist aesthetic preferences.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip LamoCamo Checkered 65401?
This grip is an excellent choice for Taurus revolver owners who are looking to significantly upgrade their firearm’s ergonomics and handling. If you own a Taurus medium or large frame revolver with a round butt and find the factory grips lacking in texture, comfort, or security, these Hogue grips are a prime candidate. They are particularly well-suited for individuals who engage in frequent range practice, competitive shooting, or carry their firearm for personal defense and require a dependable grip that won’t fail them under pressure.
Anyone who has experienced hand slippage, excessive recoil, or discomfort with their current grips would benefit greatly from this upgrade. Those who appreciate a distinct visual style in addition to enhanced performance will also find the Lamo Camo pattern appealing. However, individuals seeking grips for non-Taurus firearms or those who prefer extremely smooth, minimalist grip surfaces might want to look elsewhere. For those with smaller-framed Taurus revolvers or square-butt models, this specific grip will not fit.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip LamoCamo Checkered 65401
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip LamoCamo Checkered 65401 is a standout upgrade for any compatible Taurus revolver. It masterfully blends enhanced functionality with a unique aesthetic, offering a tangible improvement in grip security and shooting comfort. The checkered texture and ergonomic design work in tandem to provide a stable platform, reducing felt recoil and promoting accuracy, while the durable polymer construction ensures longevity.
At $97.99, the price point reflects the quality materials and precise manufacturing that Hogue is known for. While it’s an investment, the performance benefits and lasting durability justify the cost for serious shooters. I would wholeheartedly recommend this grip to any owner of a compatible Taurus revolver who is looking to elevate their shooting experience. It transforms the feel and control of the firearm, making it a more confident and enjoyable tool for its intended purposes.