All About the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66635: Start Here
After years of handling various firearms, the search for the perfect grip is a constant pursuit. My Taurus revolvers, particularly those with the larger frame sizes and square butt configurations, have always felt a bit… incomplete in their stock grip department. This led me to seek out a replacement that offered both superior handling and a touch of aesthetic refinement. The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66635 immediately caught my eye for its promise of enhanced ergonomics and the unique allure of kingwood. I considered other aftermarket grip manufacturers, but Hogue’s reputation for quality and their specific fit for Taurus square butts made this model stand out. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship; the wood felt substantial and the checkering precise.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66635 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first real-world test involved mounting these grips on my Taurus Model 66, a medium-large frame revolver known for its robust build but sometimes less-than-ideal stock grip. The installation was straightforward, requiring only a Phillips head screwdriver for the grip screw. Once secured, the difference was immediately apparent. The grips filled the hand much better than the factory plastic, and the absence of finger grooves proved to be a welcome change, allowing for a more adaptable grip depending on shooting stance or hand position. During my initial range session, firing .38 Special and a few .357 Magnum loads, I noted a significant improvement in recoil management. The increased surface area and the aggressive checkering provided a secure hold, even with sweaty palms after several magazines.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over several months and numerous range days, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66635 have proven their worth. The kingwood has held up remarkably well, showing only minor signs of handling, not wear. Unlike some softer rubber grips that can become sticky or degrade over time, this wood laminate remains consistent. Cleaning is as simple as a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth followed by a dry one; no special solvents or polishes are needed for everyday care. Compared to the original, rather utilitarian grips, these offer a substantial upgrade in both feel and control. I haven’t encountered any issues like cracking or loosening, which speaks to the quality of materials and construction from Hogue.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66635
Specifications
This particular grip set is designed for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with a square butt configuration. The material is a durable kingwood laminate, a dense and attractive hardwood known for its strength and beauty. The design features a “Big Butt” extension, which effectively increases the grip’s length and width at the base, providing more palm swell and contact area. Crucially, it offers no finger grooves, allowing for a flexible grip that can be adapted to various hand sizes and shooting styles. The surface is finished with a checkered pattern, providing excellent purchase.
The kingwood laminate construction is a key specification that contributes to the grip’s overall robustness. This material is significantly more durable and resistant to environmental factors than standard plastics or softer rubbers. The “Big Butt” feature is not merely aesthetic; it’s a functional design element that aims to enhance controllability. The lack of finger grooves offers a distinct advantage for shooters who find molded finger grooves restrictive or ill-fitting for their hand anatomy. The aggressive checkering is deeply cut, ensuring it provides reliable traction without being overly abrasive.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of any handgun grip is to improve the shooter’s interface with the firearm, and the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66635 excels in this regard. For medium and large frame Taurus revolvers with square butts, the enhanced palm swell created by the “Big Butt” design noticeably reduces felt recoil. This makes follow-up shots quicker and more accurate, particularly when firing potent cartridges like .357 Magnum. The checkered kingwood surface provides a secure, non-slip grip that inspires confidence, even during rapid fire strings.
The absence of finger grooves is a significant strength for versatility. It allows the shooter to easily adjust their grip during firing or when transitioning between different shooting positions. This adaptability is something I found particularly useful on the range. While the checkering is aggressive, it is not so sharp as to cause discomfort during extended shooting sessions, striking a good balance between aggressive purchase and user comfort.
Design & Ergonomics
From a design standpoint, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66635 is a significant aesthetic and functional upgrade over most factory grips. The kingwood material provides a rich, deep color and a polished finish that looks far more refined than plain plastic or rubber. The “Big Butt” design is subtle enough not to appear overly bulky, yet it provides a substantial increase in grip surface area.
Ergonomically, the grips are a revelation for square-butt Taurus revolvers. They fill the palm exceptionally well, offering a much more substantial and comfortable feel. The lack of finger grooves allows the hand to settle into the most natural and effective position for control. The deep checkering is precisely applied across the grip panels, offering a tactile surface that enhances handling without being abrasive. This thoughtful design makes the firearm feel like an extension of the hand, rather than just a tool.
Durability & Maintenance
The durability of these grips is a testament to Hogue‘s material selection and manufacturing processes. The kingwood laminate is inherently tough and resistant to cracking or chipping, even when subjected to the rigors of repeated use and the occasional bump or scrape. I’ve found that minor scuffs can often be buffed out with a soft cloth, maintaining their appealing finish.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. For everyday cleaning, a slightly damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and gunpowder residue. For more stubborn grime, a mild soap solution can be used sparingly, followed by thorough drying. Unlike rubber grips that can absorb oils and solvents, the sealed nature of the kingwood laminate makes it resistant to chemical degradation. There are no complex parts to worry about; it’s a solid, one-piece unit designed for longevity.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66635 are primarily a replacement part, meaning they don’t come with a host of accessories. However, the crucial “accessory” is the proper grip screw (typically included or reusable from the original grip). Compatibility is key here: these grips are specifically engineered for Taurus revolvers with the medium and large frame square butt configuration.
While these grips themselves are the customization, it’s worth noting that their precise fitment for the intended Taurus models means they integrate seamlessly without requiring further modification. The kingwood and checkered finish offer a distinct aesthetic choice for those looking to personalize their firearm beyond standard options. This particular model focuses on providing a superb grip experience out of the box, rather than relying on modular attachments.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66635
Pros
- Superior ergonomics for Taurus square-butt revolvers, particularly medium and large frames.
- Beautiful and durable kingwood laminate construction that enhances firearm aesthetics.
- Aggressive checkering provides excellent traction and secure grip, even in challenging conditions.
- “Big Butt” design offers increased palm swell for better recoil absorption and control.
- No finger grooves allow for versatile grip placement and adaptability to different hand sizes.
Cons
- Premium price point compared to basic rubber or plastic grips.
- Fitment is specific; only suitable for Taurus revolvers with a medium/large frame and square butt.
- Wood can be susceptible to severe impact damage if dropped on very hard surfaces from significant heights, though the laminate is quite robust.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66635?
This grip set is an ideal choice for owners of Taurus medium and large frame revolvers that feature a square butt configuration. If you find your current grips feel too small, lack sufficient traction, or contribute to uncomfortable recoil, these grips are a strong contender. They are particularly well-suited for individuals who appreciate the aesthetic appeal of fine wood on their firearms and who prioritize functional improvements in handling and control. Shooters who engage in regular range practice or even carry their revolvers for personal defense will benefit from the enhanced grip security.
Those looking for budget-friendly grip replacements might find this model to be pricier than their needs require. Additionally, if your Taurus revolver has a round butt frame, or is a smaller framed model, these grips will not fit and should be avoided. For those who prefer the tactile feedback of molded finger grooves, the lack of them here might be a drawback. A recommended complementary item would be a quality gun cleaning kit to help maintain the beauty of the kingwood over time.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66635
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66635 represents a significant upgrade for any compatible Taurus revolver owner. They offer a remarkable blend of aesthetic beauty, robust build quality, and tangible performance enhancements. The kingwood laminate feels substantial and looks superb, while the “Big Butt” design and aggressive checkering deliver vastly improved control and recoil management. While they come at a higher price than basic alternatives, the investment is well justified by the immediate and lasting benefits to handling and firearm comfort. I wholeheartedly recommend these grips to anyone seeking to elevate the performance and appearance of their Taurus square-butt revolver.