Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66335 Review

Out of the Box: Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66335

For years, the ergonomics of my trusty Taurus revolver felt… functional, but not exceptional. While it performed its duty, the stock grip never quite settled into my hand the way I’d hoped, particularly during extended range sessions. This led me to seek a replacement that offered a more substantial and tactile feel. After researching various options, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66335 caught my eye, promising an upgrade in both form and function. The immediate impression upon unboxing was positive; the Pau Ferro wood presented a rich, warm aesthetic, and the substantial weight hinted at solid construction. I had briefly considered a more basic rubber grip, but the allure of a premium wood product with enhanced texture sealed the deal. My initial reaction was one of quiet satisfaction, a feeling that this might just be the upgrade I was looking for.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66335 to the Test

First Use Experience

My testing grounds were primarily the local indoor range and my personal workshop for initial fitting. The grip immediately presented a significant upgrade in feel over the factory offering; the Pau Ferro wood felt warm and natural in my hand, a stark contrast to the often cold, hard plastic of stock grips. The no finger groove design offered flexibility in hand placement, allowing me to find my optimal grip position without being constrained. I noticed a marked improvement in recoil management during my first session at the range. The big butt design of the grip fills the palm more completely, and the aggressive checkered pattern provided excellent purchase, even with slightly sweaty palms after a few strings of fire. Installation was straightforward, requiring only basic tools to remove the old grip and install the new one. I did encounter a minor point of concern regarding the fit around the frame, which I’ll detail later, but overall, the first impression was overwhelmingly positive.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including regular trips to the range and occasional dry-fire practice at home, this Hogue grip has proven its worth. The wood has held up remarkably well, showing no signs of cracking or significant wear despite being handled frequently and exposed to typical workshop dust. The checkered texture remains aggressive and effective, offering the same confidence-inspiring grip it did on day one; I haven’t felt the need for any additional grip enhancers. Cleaning is as simple as a quick wipe-down with a soft cloth, and I haven’t found any need for specialized wood polishes or treatments. Compared to previous experiences with aftermarket grips, especially some of the more aggressive synthetic options, this wood grip offers a superior balance of comfort, security, and classic aesthetics. It hasn’t diminished in performance or appearance, solidifying its place as a reliable upgrade.

Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66335

Specifications

This Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66335 is specifically designed for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with square butt frames. The material is identified as Pau Ferro wood, a hardwood known for its durability and attractive grain. Crucially, this model features no finger grooves, allowing for a more adaptable grip for various hand sizes and shooting styles. The grip is also described as having a big butt profile, meaning it’s fuller in the palm swell area, and it boasts a deep, aggressive checkered pattern for enhanced traction. These specifications translate directly into how the grip feels and performs. The Pau Ferro offers a premium feel and longevity, while the lack of finger grooves provides versatility. The larger palm swell and aggressive checkering are key for control and comfort, particularly during recoil.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of its primary function – improving the grip on a handgun – the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66335 excels. The checkered Pau Ferro surface offers exceptional purchase, significantly reducing the likelihood of the firearm shifting in the hand during firing. This enhanced control is particularly noticeable with heavier calibers, where recoil management is paramount. The big butt design contributes to a more solid and stable platform, allowing for a more consistent sight picture from shot to shot. The absence of finger grooves means users aren’t forced into a specific hand position, which can be a significant benefit for those with non-standard hand sizes or shooting preferences. It meets and arguably exceeds expectations for a premium grip upgrade, providing a tangible improvement in shooter confidence and control.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of this Hogue grip is immediately apparent; the Pau Ferro wood is smoothly finished, and the grain pattern is aesthetically pleasing. The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66335 feels robust and well-made, without any loose seams or unfinished areas. Its ergonomic design, particularly the big butt profile, fills the hand comfortably, providing a substantial feel that can instill confidence. The deep checkering is sharp and effective without being overly abrasive, offering a secure lock on the grip. While generally very comfortable, I did notice a very slight gap between the grip and the frame near the top rear of the grip on my particular Taurus model. This is a minor cosmetic point and did not affect functionality, but it’s worth noting that perfect, flush fit isn’t always guaranteed with aftermarket grips, especially on older or less common firearm models.

Durability & Maintenance

Durability is a strong suit for this grip. Made from Pau Ferro wood, it’s significantly more resistant to impact and wear than many synthetic materials. I’ve experienced no cracking or splintering, even after accidentally dropping the revolver on a padded mat from a low height. The checkered texture, while deep, has shown no signs of wear or dulling, maintaining its effective grip over time. Maintenance is refreshingly simple; a quick wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dust and debris. I’ve also used a very light coat of lemon oil occasionally to maintain the wood’s luster, but this is purely aesthetic and not required for structural integrity. There are no apparent failure points in the design itself, assuming proper installation.

Accessories and Customization Options

This particular offering from Hogue is focused on being a direct replacement grip, so it does not come with additional accessories. The primary customization it offers is the Pau Ferro wood material itself, the no finger groove design, and the checkered texture. However, the grip is designed to work seamlessly with the existing hardware of the Taurus revolver it’s intended for. Depending on the specific Taurus model, some users might explore custom grip screws if they desire a different aesthetic or improved fit, but the stock screws typically suffice. For users looking for more tactical features, this grip provides a solid foundation, but it doesn’t incorporate integral accessory rails or other specialized mounting points.

Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66335

Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66335?

This grip is an excellent choice for Taurus revolver owners who prioritize comfort, control, and aesthetics. It’s particularly well-suited for shooters who engage in frequent range practice, competition, or simply want a more substantial and attractive feel to their firearm. Anyone looking to replace a basic factory grip with something that offers superior ergonomics and a touch of class will find this model highly beneficial. Those who prefer a classic wooden grip over rubber or polymer will appreciate the quality of the Pau Ferro.

Individuals seeking the absolute smallest possible profile for deep concealment might want to consider slimmer grip options. Also, those on a very tight budget might find more affordable synthetic grips that serve the basic function, though they will likely lack the premium feel and look. A must-have accessory would be a quality gun cleaning cloth to maintain the wood’s finish and a set of properly sized grip screws if the original ones are damaged or if a slightly different aesthetic is desired.

Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66335

The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Big Butt, Checkered 66335 represents a significant upgrade for any Taurus revolver owner seeking enhanced ergonomics and a refined appearance. Its combination of durable Pau Ferro wood, aggressive checkering, and a comfortable big butt profile delivers exceptional control and shooting comfort. While minor fitment variations are possible, the overall quality and performance justify the investment. This grip demonstrably improves the shooting experience, making it a worthwhile upgrade for those who value both form and function. I would wholeheartedly recommend this grip to anyone looking to elevate their Taurus revolver’s feel and performance, especially for regular range use or competition.