Is the Hype Real? Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Grooves 66310 Reviewed
For years, I’ve been on the hunt for that perfect tactile connection with a firearm, something that bridges the gap between shooter and weapon with seamless confidence. My quest led me to explore various grip materials and designs, always seeking an edge in comfort and control. The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Grooves 66310 caught my eye during a recent search for enhanced Taurus grips. It promised a refined feel and improved handling for square-butt frames, a detail often overlooked but critical for consistent shooting. My previous grips, while functional, lacked the sculpted comfort I desired, especially during extended range sessions or when transitioning between different shooting stances. I considered a few other aftermarket options, but Hogue’s reputation for quality and their specific Pau Ferro offering piqued my interest. My initial impression upon unboxing was one of solid craftsmanship and a distinct, natural warmth from the wood.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Grooves 66310 to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing began at my local indoor range, where I mounted the Hogue grips onto a Taurus Model 66. The immediate difference was noticeable; the grip felt more substantial and secure in my hand compared to the factory synthetic panels. I spent a solid two hours running various drills, from slow, deliberate single-action shots to faster double-action sequences, all while maintaining a firm but relaxed hold. The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Grooves 66310 performed admirably through rapid fire, absorbing recoil effectively without causing hot spots or fatigue. The Pau Ferro material provided a surprisingly good grip, even with slightly sweaty palms, a welcome change from some slicker materials I’ve encountered. No immediate issues or quirks presented themselves, which is always a good sign with a new component.
Extended Use & Reliability
Over the following weeks, these Hogue grips became a permanent fixture on my Taurus revolver, seeing action during multiple range visits and even accompanying me on a few longer walks where I carry for personal defense. The Pau Ferro has held up exceptionally well, showing no signs of cracking, excessive wear, or loosening. Its surface has developed a subtle patina, a testament to its natural material and consistent handling. Cleaning is as simple as wiping them down with a soft, dry cloth, maintaining their appearance and grip. Compared to rubber grips that can degrade over time or become sticky, these wood grips offer a timeless durability and a consistent feel. They easily outperform the generic, often slippery, factory grips that came with the firearm.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Grooves 66310
Specifications
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Grooves 66310 is designed specifically for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with square butt configurations. It is crafted from genuine Pau Ferro wood, a dense hardwood known for its beauty and durability. This particular model features a smooth, no finger grooves design, offering a classic and uncluttered feel. The grip comes with all the necessary mounting hardware, making installation straightforward. The Pau Ferro material itself contributes significantly to handling, offering a warm, natural texture that enhances control.
The primary benefit of this specific material and design is its natural grip enhancement. Unlike synthetic materials that can feel cold or slick, Pau Ferro provides a tactile sensation that feels secure in the hand. The absence of finger grooves is a key specification for shooters who prefer a customizable grip point, allowing the hand to find its most comfortable and effective position without being dictated by pre-molded grooves. This versatility is crucial for a wide range of hand sizes and shooting styles.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of performance, the Hogue grip excels at its primary job: improving the shooting experience. The way it fills the hand is substantial without being overly bulky, providing a solid foundation for accurate shots. Recoil management is noticeably improved; the grip material and design seem to dissipate energy effectively, reducing felt recoil and muzzle flip. This allows for faster follow-up shots and a more comfortable shooting session overall.
The main strength of this grip is its combination of aesthetics and practical function. The smooth Pau Ferro feels premium and adds significant visual appeal to the firearm. Its functional strength lies in its consistent grip and recoil absorption. A minor area that could be seen as a limitation, depending on preference, is the lack of finger grooves. While this offers versatility, some shooters might prefer the guiding channel that grooves can provide. However, for my shooting style and hand size, the absence of grooves proved to be a positive, allowing for a more natural hand placement. It meets, and in many ways, exceeds expectations for an aftermarket grip upgrade.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this grip is immediately apparent. The Pau Ferro wood is smoothly finished, with a warm, deep color and a subtle grain that speaks to its natural origin. The fit to the Taurus frame was excellent, with no significant gaps or proud edges, indicating precise manufacturing. The overall feel in hand is one of robustness and a premium connection to the firearm.
Ergonomically, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Grooves 66310 is a triumph for square-butt revolvers. The shape is sculpted to fill the palm, providing ample surface area for a secure hold. The smooth finish, while beautiful, offers a surprisingly confident grip, allowing the hand to index naturally to the correct position for each shot. There was virtually no learning curve; it felt immediately comfortable and intuitive. The clean, traditional lines are aesthetically pleasing, enhancing the classic lines of the revolver.
Durability & Maintenance
Regarding durability, Pau Ferro wood is exceptionally resilient. I anticipate this grip will last for many years, potentially outlasting the firearm itself with proper care. There are no obvious points of failure. The material is resistant to common solvents and oils found in firearm cleaning, and its dense nature makes it less susceptible to impact damage compared to softer woods or plastics.
Maintenance is minimal. A regular wipe-down with a soft cloth is sufficient to keep it clean and maintain its appearance. For deeper cleaning or to restore luster, a light application of a quality wood polish or gun stock wax can be used. It is important to avoid harsh chemicals or prolonged exposure to extreme moisture, which could potentially affect the wood finish over time.
Accessories and Customization Options
This particular Hogue grip is designed as a direct replacement for the factory grips and typically comes with the necessary screws for installation. It doesn’t include other accessories in the traditional sense, as its purpose is to enhance the ergonomics of the firearm itself. However, its design is inherently a customization option, allowing owners to significantly alter the feel and appearance of their Taurus revolver. The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Grooves 66310 is part of Hogue’s extensive line, and while this specific Pau Ferro is a standout, Hogue offers various materials and styles for many firearms. Compatibility with other aftermarket parts for the specific Taurus model should be straightforward, as this grip fits the standard frame.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Grooves 66310
Pros
- Exceptional build quality using genuine Pau Ferro wood, offering a premium look and feel.
- Improved ergonomics for Taurus square-butt revolvers, providing a more secure and comfortable grip.
- Effective recoil management thanks to the grip’s design and material properties, leading to more comfortable shooting.
- Timeless aesthetic appeal that significantly enhances the visual appeal of the firearm.
- Durable and low-maintenance design suitable for regular use and varying environmental conditions.
Cons
- Higher price point compared to basic synthetic or rubber grips.
- No finger grooves may not suit shooters who prefer guided hand placement.
- Requires specific fitment for Taurus medium/large square-butt revolvers; not a universal grip.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Grooves 66310?
This Hogue grip is ideal for owners of Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with square butt configurations who are seeking to upgrade both the performance and aesthetics of their firearm. It’s particularly well-suited for range shooters who spend extended periods at the range and appreciate a comfortable, consistent hold. Enthusiasts who value classic styling and natural materials will find this grip a perfect fit. It’s also a great option for those looking to enhance the defensive capabilities of their revolver by improving control under stress.
Those who absolutely require finger grooves for consistent indexing, or those on a very tight budget looking for the cheapest possible replacement, might want to consider other options. For optimal use, a good cleaning kit for the firearm itself and a soft cloth for maintaining the grip’s finish are recommended.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Grooves 66310
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro No Finger Grooves 66310 is an outstanding upgrade for any Taurus square-butt revolver owner looking to enhance their shooting experience. It masterfully blends form and function, delivering a premium feel, improved handling, and a significant reduction in felt recoil. While it comes at a higher price than basic grips, the value is undeniably present in the quality of the materials, the precision of the fit, and the tangible improvement in performance. For those who appreciate fine craftsmanship and seek to maximize their firearm’s potential, this Hogue grip is an investment that pays dividends with every shot. I wholeheartedly recommend this grip to any enthusiast looking to elevate their Taurus revolver.