Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove 66850 Review

Why I Chose the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove 66850: A Hands-On Review

My quest for the perfect grip upgrade for my Taurus revolver led me to the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove 66850. As an enthusiast who values both form and function across diverse environments, the promise of Hogue’s renowned craftsmanship combined with the classic appeal of CocoBolo wood was a compelling proposition. My existing grip, while functional, lacked the refined feel and ergonomic support that I’d come to expect from top-tier firearm accessories, especially for extended range sessions or careful fieldwork. I considered a few other brands, but none offered the specific combination of material, finger groove design, and square butt fitment that Hogue provided. Unboxing this grip brought a sense of immediate satisfaction, a tangible step towards improving my shooting experience.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove 66850 to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing of the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove 66850 took place on my usual range day, interspersed with some dry-fire practice at home. The installation was straightforward, fitting snugly onto the square butt frame of my Taurus model. The most immediate sensation was the comfortable contouring of the finger grooves, which naturally guided my hand into a consistent and secure grip. Even during rapid fire drills, the grip remained stable, and I noticed a distinct reduction in felt recoil compared to the factory grip. There were no initial issues, just a smooth transition to a noticeably better feel.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including trips to outdoor ranges and dry-fire practice sessions multiple times a week, the Hogue grip has held up exceptionally well. The CocoBolo wood shows minimal signs of wear, just a subtle patina that speaks to its genuine material and solid construction. Cleaning is as simple as a damp cloth and occasional gentle polish, and it stores easily without any special considerations. Compared to the synthetic grips I’ve used in the past, this wooden grip offers a superior tactile experience and a much more refined aesthetic.

Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove 66850

Specifications

The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove 66850 is designed for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with a square butt configuration. It is crafted from genuine CocoBolo wood, a dense and beautiful hardwood known for its durability and rich coloration. The top finger groove design is a key feature, intended to enhance shooter control and comfort.

This specific design element, the top finger groove, is crucial for aligning the shooter’s hand properly on the grip. It provides a tactile reference point that promotes a consistent grip, which is vital for accurate shooting, especially under pressure. The use of CocoBolo means the grip is not only visually appealing but also robust enough to withstand the rigors of regular use. Unlike some softer materials, wood grips often offer a more secure feel, especially when hands might become slightly slick.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of performance, this Hogue grip excels at its primary function: improving the shooting experience. The finger grooves are well-defined and spaced appropriately for a variety of hand sizes, promoting a natural and solid hold. This enhanced grip directly translates to better recoil management; I found myself more accurately tracking the front sight between shots. The grip’s surface provides a secure purchase without being overly aggressive, striking a fine balance.

The main job this grip does, which is to improve the shooting experience, is performed admirably. The CocoBolo material, while beautiful, also offers a pleasing texture that doesn’t feel slippery. It feels like a significant upgrade from basic plastic or rubber grips, contributing to overall firearm control.

Design & Ergonomics

The design of the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove 66850 is both classic and highly functional. The CocoBolo wood has a deep, rich reddish-brown hue with subtle dark streaks, giving it a premium look that many synthetic grips cannot replicate. The contours are sculpted to fit the hand comfortably, with the finger grooves offering positive indexing for consistent placement.

Ergonomically, the grip feels substantial and well-balanced in the hand. The square butt shape is maintained, which some shooters prefer for its traditional feel and stability. The transition from the frame to the grip is smooth, with no sharp edges or uncomfortable seams.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of a wooden grip is a common concern, but Hogue’s choice of CocoBolo is well-founded; it’s a very dense and resilient wood. After my extended testing period, there are no cracks, chips, or significant scuffs. The finish has remained intact, resisting moisture and oils from my hands quite effectively.

Maintenance is incredibly simple. A quick wipe-down after use is usually sufficient, and the wood resists staining and absorbing dirt. For deeper cleaning, a slightly damp cloth followed by a light application of furniture polish or wax brings out the wood’s natural luster. There haven’t been any failure points, suggesting a long service life for this accessory.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular grip is designed as a direct replacement for the factory grip on specific Taurus revolvers. As such, it doesn’t come with additional accessories. However, its primary customization comes from the inherent beauty and uniqueness of the CocoBolo wood itself; each grip will have slight variations in grain and color.

The grip is designed to work seamlessly with the firearm’s existing hardware. Compatibility with aftermarket speed loaders or other firearm accessories remains unaffected by the grip change, as it precisely matches the original’s footprint.

Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove 66850

Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove 66850?

This grip is an excellent choice for Taurus revolver owners seeking a significant upgrade in both aesthetics and performance. Shooters who appreciate the classic look and feel of fine wood on their firearm will find this grip particularly appealing. It is ideal for those who frequently engage in target shooting or recreational shooting and want a more comfortable and controlled experience.

Individuals who prioritize a tactical, high-tech appearance might prefer a more modern synthetic grip. However, for anyone looking to enhance the ergonomics and visual appeal of their Taurus square butt revolver, this Hogue grip is a strong contender. Consider a quality gun oil or wood polish for long-term care to maintain the grip’s natural beauty.

Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove 66850

The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip CocoBolo Top Finger Groove 66850 is, without a doubt, a superior upgrade for the intended Taurus revolvers. It successfully blends striking visual appeal with tangible improvements in shooting comfort and control, thanks to its quality CocoBolo wood and well-designed finger grooves. While it carries a higher cost than many alternatives, the enhanced shooting experience and the lasting beauty of the material justify the investment for enthusiasts. I would readily recommend this grip to anyone looking to elevate their Taurus revolver’s handling and aesthetics, offering a significant return on investment for the discerning shooter.