The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove 66650: Is It Really That Good?
For years, I’ve relied on quality equipment to get the job done, whether I’m in the workshop, the lab, or out in the field. My hands are my primary tools, and the interface between them and my equipment is critical. This led me to seek out a more refined grip for a Taurus handgun I’ve been using, specifically one that could offer improved handling without sacrificing aesthetics. The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove 66650 caught my eye with its promise of both superior ergonomics and the elegance of Kingwood. My previous grips, while functional, felt a bit generic and lacked the tactile feedback I craved for confident handling. I considered a few other aftermarket options, but the reputation of Hogue for meticulous craftsmanship and the unique appeal of the Kingwood finish tipped the scales. Unboxing this grip brought an immediate sense of anticipation; it felt substantial and well-made, hinting at a satisfying upgrade.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove 66650 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place on the range, as well as during dry-fire practice at my workbench. I wanted to assess how the grip performed under simulated stress and during more deliberate handling. The conditions varied from the controlled environment of my workshop to the more dynamic setting of a busy shooting range, where dust and a bit of ambient moisture are par for the course. The ease of use was immediately apparent; the grip felt natural in my hand from the moment I installed it, with no significant adjustment period required. One pleasant surprise was the inherent tackiness of the grip material, even before considering the finger grooves, which offered a secure hold without feeling abrasive. The only minor quirk I noted was the slight adjustment needed for my specific grip style due to the pre-determined finger groove placement, which is expected with any new grip.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, including numerous range trips and regular handling, this Hogue grip has proven its mettle. It has become an integral part of my shooting experience, significantly enhancing control and comfort. Durability has been excellent; despite being handled frequently and subjected to the occasional bump against my workbench, there are no signs of wear, cracking, or degradation in its texture. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe with a damp cloth usually suffices, and for more persistent grime, a mild soap solution works wonders, leaving the Kingwood finish looking as lustrous as day one. Compared to the factory grips I previously used, this Hogue model offers a noticeable leap in both tactile feedback and overall stability. It feels far more robust and purpose-built than some of the more budget-friendly alternatives I’ve encountered in the past.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove 66650
Specifications
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove 66650 is engineered for Taurus handguns featuring medium to large frames with square butts. Its defining characteristic is the use of premium Kingwood, a dense and aesthetically rich hardwood, complemented by Hogue’s signature top finger groove design. The grip is specifically tailored for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with a square butt configuration, ensuring a precise fit. The Kingwood material provides a smooth yet grippy surface, and the sculpted finger grooves are designed to align naturally with the shooter’s fingers, promoting a consistent and secure grip. Unlike generic grips that might require extensive fitting, this model offers a tailored fit for its intended firearm type. The 66650 model designation indicates its specific application and material.
Performance & Functionality
In its primary function of enhancing handgun control, this grip excels. The combination of the naturally attractive Kingwood and the meticulously shaped finger grooves creates a synergistic effect, allowing for a much firmer and more controlled grasp on the firearm. This directly translates to improved accuracy, especially during rapid fire sequences where maintaining a stable platform is crucial. The finger grooves guide your hand into an optimal position, reducing the likelihood of a shifting grip. While the Kingwood offers a unique tactile feel, it maintains a good level of friction, preventing slippage even with sweaty palms. It comfortably meets and, in many aspects, exceeds the performance expectations for a high-quality aftermarket grip, offering a tangible benefit for shooters focused on precision and confidence.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this Hogue grip is immediately apparent. The Kingwood itself is visually stunning, boasting rich, deep colors and a fine grain that speaks of its premium origin. The finish is smooth to the touch, yet it doesn’t feel slippery, striking an excellent balance. The sculpted finger grooves are ergonomically sound, fitting the natural curvature of my hand without creating pressure points. This thoughtful design contributes significantly to comfort during extended shooting sessions. Installation was a straightforward affair, requiring only basic tools, and once secured, the grip felt like a seamless extension of the handgun itself, with no looseness or wobble. The overall aesthetic is one of refined elegance, a welcome departure from standard rubber or plastic grips.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove 66650 is built for longevity. The dense hardwood of the Kingwood is inherently resistant to wear and tear, and the Hogue manufacturing process ensures a robust construction. I anticipate this grip will last for many years, even with regular use and exposure to typical shooting environment elements. Maintenance is minimal; a gentle cleaning is usually sufficient, and the material is forgiving of mild cleaning agents. There are no obvious points of weakness that would suggest premature failure. For a hardwood grip, its resilience is quite impressive, offering a durable solution for shooters seeking a long-term upgrade.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular Hogue grip is designed as a direct replacement, meaning it doesn’t typically come with extensive accessories. Its primary “customization” is its inherent material and design – the Kingwood finish and the finger groove ergonomics. While Hogue does offer other grip styles and materials, this specific model is focused on delivering its unique aesthetic and functional benefits as a standalone upgrade. There are no aftermarket parts or modifications typically associated with this type of handgun grip itself, beyond ensuring it’s properly secured to the firearm. It stands on its own merits as a premium component.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove 66650
Pros
- Exquisite Kingwood Finish: The rich, natural beauty of the Kingwood provides a visually stunning and sophisticated look unmatched by synthetic materials.
- Superior Ergonomics: The well-defined finger grooves promote a secure and consistent grip, enhancing control and shooter comfort.
- Premium Build Quality: Hogue is known for its craftsmanship, and this grip exemplifies that with its solid construction and precise fit.
- Enhanced Shooting Experience: Offers a noticeable improvement in handling and stability, contributing to better accuracy and confidence on the range.
- Durability: Made from a dense hardwood, it promises excellent longevity and resistance to wear under normal use.
Cons
- Price Point: As a premium material, Kingwood commands a higher price than standard synthetic grips, making it a more significant investment.
- Finger Groove Specificity: While beneficial for many, the fixed finger groove placement might not perfectly suit every shooter’s hand size or grip preference.
- Limited Customization: This is a specific, finished product; no further customization options are available beyond its inherent design and material.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove 66650?
This grip is an ideal choice for Taurus handgun owners who appreciate the aesthetic appeal of natural wood and are looking to elevate the tactile experience of their firearm. It’s perfect for those who value craftsmanship and are willing to invest in a high-quality upgrade for improved handling and a touch of personal flair. Shooters who frequently practice at the range or use their handgun for extended periods will benefit from the enhanced comfort and control. Anyone seeking to differentiate their firearm with a unique and sophisticated touch will find this model highly appealing.
However, individuals prioritizing the absolute lowest cost, or those who prefer the shock-absorbing properties of rubber, might want to consider other Hogue offerings. Shooters with unusually sized hands that don’t conform to standard finger groove patterns might also want to explore other ergonomic solutions. For those who need a sterile, clinical grip for specific applications, a wood option might not be the most practical choice.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove 66650
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip Kingwood Top Finger Groove 66650 is a superb upgrade for the discerning Taurus handgun owner. It successfully blends striking visual appeal with tangible functional improvements, offering a grip that is both beautiful and highly effective. The quality of the Kingwood is exceptional, and the ergonomic design significantly enhances control and comfort during shooting. While it represents a higher investment than more common materials, the performance, durability, and aesthetic payoff justify the price for those who value such attributes. I would confidently recommend this grip to anyone looking to enhance their Taurus firearm with a touch of class and a noticeable improvement in handling. It’s an investment that pays dividends in both shooting pleasure and functional performance.