Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Stripe/Cap, Checkered 66331 Review

Testing the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Stripe/Cap, Checkered 66331: What You Need to Know

For years, I’ve been seeking the perfect tactile interface for my Taurus revolvers, especially those with the classic square butt frame. The standard factory grips, while functional, often lack the refined feel and secure purchase that truly elevate a shooting experience. This led me to the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Stripe/Cap, Checkered 66331, a promising upgrade from a manufacturer renowned for its quality firearm accessories. My aim was to find a grip that would not only enhance control but also contribute to the overall aesthetic and comfort of my favored sidearms.

The quest for this specific grip was driven by a desire to improve my handling during extended range sessions and to mitigate some of the recoil that can fatigue the hand over time. I considered other materials like rubber and synthetic polymers, but the allure of a natural wood grip with a checkered finish offered a distinct appeal. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of quiet satisfaction; the Pau Ferro wood felt substantial, and the precise checkering promised excellent purchase without being overly aggressive. It was a refreshing change from the utilitarian plastics I’d grown accustomed to.

First Use Experience

My initial test for this Hogue grip took place on the familiar confines of my local indoor shooting range, paired with a well-worn Taurus Model 66 chambered in .357 Magnum. The square butt frame of the Model 66 is a classic design, and I was eager to see how this specific grip would complement its ergonomics. Installation was straightforward, requiring only a screwdriver to transfer the grip screw, and the fit was snug and secure with no wobble or looseness.

The Pau Ferro wood felt warm and substantial in my hand, a welcome departure from the sometimes clammy feel of synthetic materials. Its natural oils seemed to offer a subtle, yet effective, grip even before engaging the checkering. I found that the no finger groove design allowed for a more natural and adaptable hand placement, which is crucial when switching between different shooting stances or when accommodating slightly different hand sizes. The stripe/cap element added a subtle visual flair without being ostentatious.

The checkering itself was a revelation. It was precisely cut and evenly spaced, offering a firm purchase on the grip without causing any hotspots or discomfort, even after firing several cylinders of full-house .357 Magnum loads. This is a critical aspect for me; aggressive checkering can sometimes feel like sandpaper on bare skin during recoil, but this Hogue design struck a perfect balance. I didn’t experience any slippage between my hand and the grip, even with sweaty palms after a series of rapid fire drills.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including numerous trips to the range and even some dry-fire practice at home, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Stripe/Cap, Checkered 66331 has proven to be remarkably durable. The Pau Ferro wood has held up exceptionally well, showing only minor cosmetic signs of use, like a faint sheen developing where my hand most frequently contacts it. There are no cracks, chips, or any degradation in the structural integrity of the grip.

Maintenance has been refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a soft cloth after a range session is usually all that’s needed to keep them clean. For deeper cleaning, a mild wood cleaner and a soft brush have been sufficient. I haven’t felt the need to apply any additional oils or finishes, as the wood has maintained its natural luster and grip-enhancing properties. This level of low-maintenance durability is exactly what I look for in aftermarket parts.

Comparing these Hogue grips to other aftermarket options I’ve used over the years, they certainly stand out. Cheaper imitation wood grips I’ve tried in the past often had uneven checkering or felt less substantial. On the other hand, some premium, custom-made grips can be prohibitively expensive. This particular set strikes an excellent balance between high-quality craftsmanship, aesthetic appeal, and practical performance, justifying its price point effectively.

Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Stripe/Cap, Checkered 66331

Specifications

The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Stripe/Cap, Checkered 66331 is designed specifically for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with a square butt configuration. The material is identified as Pau Ferro, a hardwood known for its density and attractive grain patterns, which contributes to both its aesthetic appeal and its durability. This particular model features a no finger groove design, which allows for greater flexibility in hand placement compared to grips with molded finger channels.

It also includes a stripe/cap detail, a subtle design element that adds a refined look, and is finished with a checkered pattern. This checkering is crucial for providing a secure and non-slip surface, enhancing control during firing. The construction is solid, with no hollow sections, providing a substantial feel in the hand. These specifications combine to create a grip that is not only functional but also a significant upgrade in terms of tactile feedback and visual appeal for compatible Taurus firearms.

Performance & Functionality

In terms of core function, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Stripe/Cap, Checkered 66331 excels. The primary job of a grip is to facilitate a secure and comfortable hold, and this model delivers exceptionally well. The Pau Ferro wood, combined with the precisely executed checkering, provides a consistently firm grip that inspires confidence, even under the stress of recoil. This enhanced control directly translates to improved shot placement, as a steady platform allows for a more consistent trigger pull.

The no finger groove design is a particular strength. It allows the shooter to find their ideal hand placement without being constrained by pre-molded channels, which can sometimes be ill-fitting for certain hand shapes or sizes. This adaptability is a significant advantage for those who might shoot from various positions or have hands that don’t perfectly align with standard grip contours. The grip doesn’t absorb sweat excessively, maintaining its tactile qualities even during prolonged firing sessions in warmer conditions.

However, its primary strength, the wood construction, could also be seen as a minor limitation in certain extreme environments. Unlike more modern synthetic materials, wood is susceptible to significant changes in humidity and temperature, though Pau Ferro is generally quite stable. While it has held up perfectly for me, I would exercise caution if planning to expose it to prolonged submersion in water or extreme, rapid temperature shifts without proper care.

Design & Ergonomics

The build quality of these Hogue grips is immediately apparent. The Pau Ferro wood feels dense and well-finished, with a smooth surface that transitions seamlessly into the checkered panels. The fit onto the Taurus square butt frame is excellent; it mounts flush against the frame without any gaps, giving the impression of a factory-fitted component. The stripe/cap accent is subtle but adds a touch of class, elevating the visual appeal beyond that of a basic grip.

Ergonomically, the no finger groove design is a standout feature for me. It provides a clean, unadulterated grip surface that feels natural and comfortable. The checkering is aggressive enough to offer superior traction but not so sharp as to cause discomfort during extended shooting sessions. The overall shape fills the hand well, providing a solid anchor point that aids in managing recoil effectively. There was no learning curve; it felt intuitive and comfortable from the moment I installed it.

Durability & Maintenance

The durability of a wooden grip is always a consideration, but the Hogue grip appears to be built for the long haul. The Pau Ferro wood is inherently dense and resilient. After months of handling and firing, there are no signs of the wood splintering, cracking, or becoming soft, even in the checkered areas. This suggests that the manufacturing process and material selection are of a high standard.

Maintenance is commendably simple. A light dusting or wipe with a damp cloth is usually sufficient for regular cleaning. For more stubborn grime, a mild wood cleaner can be used, followed by a soft polish. I haven’t encountered any issues that required complex maintenance or replacement of parts, as the grip is a single, solid piece. One potential point of concern, common to all wooden grips, is prolonged exposure to extreme moisture or direct sunlight without protection, which could theoretically lead to warping or fading over extended periods.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Stripe/Cap, Checkered 66331 comes as a complete unit, requiring only the original grip screw for installation. There are no additional accessories included with the grip itself. However, the appeal of these grips also lies in their compatibility with existing firearm features.

They are designed to work seamlessly with factory-installed grip screws and any existing hardware on the Taurus firearm. For shooters looking to customize their Taurus revolver further, these grips serve as an excellent foundation. The no finger groove design offers maximum flexibility for hand placement, and the natural wood finish can be further enhanced with specialized wood polishes or sealants if desired, although this is not necessary for maintaining function.

Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Stripe/Cap, Checkered 66331

Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Stripe/Cap, Checkered 66331?

This grip is ideally suited for owners of Taurus medium to large frame revolvers with square butt frames who prioritize a combination of tactile feel, enhanced control, and classic aesthetics. If you find factory grips uncomfortable, slippery, or simply lacking in character, these Hogue grips are an excellent upgrade. They are particularly beneficial for range shooters who experience hand fatigue during extended sessions or collectors looking to enhance the visual appeal of their firearm.

Those who should probably skip this product are individuals who require extremely specialized grip features, such as highly aggressive texturing for specific tactical applications or ultra-compact grips for deep concealment. Anyone looking for a purely utilitarian, low-maintenance option might also prefer rubber grips, as wood requires slightly more mindful care in extreme conditions. It is also important to confirm your Taurus model has a square butt frame, as this grip is not compatible with round butt frames.

For those looking to maximize their experience with these grips, I would recommend a good quality wood cleaner and polish to maintain the Pau Ferro finish over time. Additionally, ensuring you have the correct size screwdriver for the grip screw will make installation smooth and prevent marring the wood. Finally, practicing with the new grip before a critical event is always advisable, though I found the transition to be remarkably intuitive.

Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Stripe/Cap, Checkered 66331

The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Groove, Stripe/Cap, Checkered 66331 is, without question, a superb upgrade for compatible Taurus revolvers. It successfully marries form and function, providing a tactile experience and visual appeal that factory grips simply cannot match. The quality of the Pau Ferro wood, the precision of the checkering, and the thoughtful no finger groove design all contribute to a superior handling experience that inspires confidence and enjoyment at the range.

Considering the significant improvement in grip security, comfort, and aesthetics, the price point is entirely justified. It represents a tangible enhancement to the firearm’s usability and overall appeal, offering a long-lasting solution for those seeking a more refined interface. I wholeheartedly recommend these Hogue grips to any Taurus square butt revolver owner who values a premium feel and enhanced control. If you’re looking to elevate your shooting experience and the appearance of your revolver, these grips are a fantastic investment.