The Story Behind the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 65351
For years, my revolvers have been extensions of my hands, especially those with the distinctive round butt profile that fits so many classic Taurus models. However, over time, the original grips on a few of my workhorse revolvers, particularly a well-loved Taurus Model 66, started showing their age. The plastic was becoming slick, offering less purchase than I preferred during brisk shooting sessions, and the finger grooves, while functional, felt a bit too generic. This led me to search for a replacement that offered both a superior feel and a touch of refined aesthetics. After exploring several options, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 65351 caught my eye.
My initial impression upon unboxing these Hogue grips was one of understated quality. The Pau Ferro wood, a material I’ve come to appreciate for its density and attractive grain, felt solid and substantial in hand. The top finger groove design promised a more natural and secure grip, and the fine checkering suggested it would offer excellent traction without being overly abrasive. I had considered other aftermarket grips, including some synthetic rubber options, but I was drawn to the classic appeal and inherent durability of a well-crafted wooden grip for this particular application. This felt like a genuine upgrade, not just a functional replacement.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 65351 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real test of this Hogue grip was on the range, specifically with my Taurus Model 66. Swapping out the old grips was straightforward, a testament to Hogue’s precise manufacturing. The Pau Ferro grips immediately felt like they were designed for this specific frame; they seated perfectly, with no gaps or looseness.
The true test came with live fire. I ran through a series of rapid strings, focusing on how the grips affected my control. The top finger groove naturally guided my hand into a consistent shooting position, and the fine checkering provided a secure anchor, even as my hands began to warm up from the exertion. I noticed a definite improvement in recoil management; the wood felt solid against my palm, absorbing some of the sharp jolt and allowing for quicker follow-up shots. Even after extended firing, the grip remained comfortable, a significant improvement over the original plastic.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the past several months, these Pau Ferro grips have become a permanent fixture on my Taurus. They’ve endured numerous range days, some in dusty outdoor conditions, and even a few unexpected encounters with light moisture. Despite this exposure, the wood has shown no signs of swelling, cracking, or significant wear.
The checkering remains sharp and effective, providing consistent grip without abrading my hand during prolonged handling. Cleaning is as simple as a quick wipe-down with a slightly damp cloth followed by a light polish, maintaining their attractive appearance. Compared to some of the cheaper, generic wooden grips I’ve used in the past, which often developed rough spots or faded quickly, these Hogue grips have held up exceptionally well. They feel as solid and reliable today as they did on day one.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 65351
Specifications
- Gun Make: Taurus
- Grip Style: Full grip for medium & large frame revolvers with a round butt.
- Material: Pau Ferro wood, known for its durability and attractive, dense grain.
- Grip Pattern: Features top finger grooves for enhanced hand placement and fine checkering on the grip panels for superior traction.
- Color: Natural Pau Ferro wood finish.
- Model Number: 65351
These specifications translate directly into tangible benefits for the shooter. The Pau Ferro wood construction offers a premium feel and robust durability that synthetic materials can sometimes lack. The top finger grooves are meticulously shaped to align the shooter’s hand naturally, promoting a consistent grip and improving accuracy, particularly during rapid fire. The fine checkering is a critical element, providing a secure purchase without being so aggressive that it causes discomfort or snagging. This combination ensures that the grip feels both substantial and secure, contributing to better control and a more pleasant shooting experience.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary role, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 65351 performs exceptionally well. The grip’s ability to enhance control and comfort during shooting is its greatest asset. The designed finger grooves promote an instinctive and repeatable hand placement, which is crucial for accuracy, especially under pressure.
The checkered panels provide a confident hold, mitigating slippage even when hands are slightly damp or sweaty. This enhanced grip translates to better recoil management, allowing for faster and more accurate follow-up shots. While it doesn’t magically reduce recoil, the improved stability and hand-to-grip interface certainly make perceived recoil feel more manageable. The overall functionality is superb, exceeding the performance of the original factory grips in terms of both control and shooting comfort.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of this Hogue grip is a clear win for any Taurus owner seeking an upgrade. The Pau Ferro wood material itself lends a classic, high-quality aesthetic that elevates the firearm’s overall appearance. The fit and finish are impeccable, with precisely cut checkering and smoothly contoured finger grooves that feel natural to the hand.
Ergonomically, the grip is outstanding. The top finger grooves guide the hand into an optimal position, ensuring consistent placement shot after shot. The checkering offers just the right amount of texture, providing a secure and comfortable hold without causing hot spots. Even during extended shooting sessions, the grip remains comfortable and allows for fine manipulation of the controls.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 65351 is built for longevity. The inherent hardness and density of Pau Ferro wood make it resistant to the dings, scratches, and abrasions that can mar lesser materials. This ensures that the grip will maintain its aesthetic appeal and functional integrity over a long period of use.
Maintenance is pleasantly straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a soft, dry cloth usually suffices for light dust and handling oils. For more persistent grime or a deeper clean, a slightly damp cloth followed by a gentle wood polish is all that’s needed. There are no complex mechanisms or hard-to-reach areas that trap dirt, making upkeep minimal and hassle-free.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular grip model from Hogue is designed as a direct replacement for existing factory grips on compatible Taurus revolvers. As such, it does not typically come with additional accessories. However, its design is optimized for use with the firearm’s existing components, such as the grip screw and frame.
While the grip itself isn’t directly customizable in terms of interchangeable parts, its true value lies in its ability to transform the firearm’s ergonomics. It serves as a high-quality upgrade that requires no additional modification or complex fitting. The Pau Ferro wood finish offers a refined look that complements a wide range of firearm aesthetics without needing further embellishment.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 65351
Pros
- Superior Ergonomics: The top finger grooves and precisely cut checkering provide an exceptional grip and promote a consistent shooting stance, significantly enhancing control.
- Premium Material: Crafted from durable and attractive Pau Ferro wood, offering a classic aesthetic and substantial feel that factory grips often lack.
- Excellent Fit and Finish: Designed for a precise fit on compatible Taurus round-butt revolvers, ensuring no looseness or gaps and a high-quality appearance.
- Enhanced Recoil Management: The solid construction and improved grip interface help to make felt recoil more manageable, facilitating quicker and more accurate follow-up shots.
- Durability and Longevity: Pau Ferro wood is inherently strong, making these grips resistant to wear, tear, and environmental factors, ensuring they last for years.
Cons
- Specific Fitment: These grips are designed for Taurus revolvers with a round butt profile; they will not fit square-butt models.
- Price Point: While offering excellent value, these Hogue grips are a premium upgrade and come at a higher price than basic factory or synthetic replacements.
- Limited Customization: As a fixed replacement grip, there are no modular components or color variations offered for this specific model.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 65351?
This Hogue grip is an ideal choice for any owner of a compatible Taurus medium or large frame revolver with a round butt who is looking to significantly improve their firearm’s handling and aesthetics. If you find your current grips slippery, uncomfortable during recoil, or simply lacking in aesthetic appeal, this Pau Ferro grip is a fantastic upgrade. It’s perfect for the discerning shooter who appreciates the tactile feedback and classic look of wood grips and wants to enhance their shooting experience without sacrificing reliability.
Conversely, if you own a Taurus revolver with a square butt, or if you prefer the shock-absorbing properties of specialized rubber grips, this particular model would not be suitable. Those on a very strict budget might also find these grips to be a larger investment than they are looking to make. For maximum effectiveness and ease of installation, ensure your firearm has the correct round butt frame to mate with these Hogue grips.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 65351
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Rd. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 65351 is, without a doubt, a superb upgrade for any Taurus revolver owner with a round butt frame. It masterfully blends form and function, delivering a significantly improved grip, enhanced shooting comfort, and a touch of classic elegance. The quality of the Pau Ferro wood, combined with Hogue’s renowned craftsmanship, ensures a product that feels substantial, performs reliably, and looks fantastic.
Considering the substantial improvements in handling, control, and aesthetics it provides over stock grips, the price point feels justified for the quality and lasting value it offers. For shooters who value a solid, tactile connection with their firearm and appreciate the beauty of natural materials, I wholeheartedly recommend these Hogue grips. They transform a good firearm into a truly exceptional one, making every trip to the range or handling session a more confident and enjoyable experience.