Getting My Hands on the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66351
As an equipment specialist with over a decade of hands-on experience across a diverse range of environments, from the rugged outdoors to the precision of laboratory settings, I’ve developed a keen eye for what truly elevates a piece of gear. My recent quest for improved ergonomics and a more secure grip on my Taurus medium to large frame square butt revolvers led me directly to the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66351. The stock grips on many Taurus models, while functional, often leave something to be desired in terms of consistent control under varied shooting conditions. I was particularly interested in this Hogue offering due to its reputation for quality materials and thoughtful design. Having previously used Hogue’s rubber grips with great success, I was curious to see how their Pau Ferro wood variant, complete with finger grooves and aggressive checkering, would perform. While I considered some less refined, generic wooden grip replacements, the specific contouring and material of this Hogue model promised a more substantial upgrade. My initial impression upon receiving the grip was one of immediate satisfaction; the wood felt substantial and the checkering appeared precisely executed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66351 to the Test
First Use Experience
My testing primarily involved fitting and dry-firing exercises on my Taurus Model 66 revolver, a medium-large frame square butt model. I also took it to the range for live-fire sessions, focusing on how the grip handled recoil and maintained consistency across multiple shots. The fitment was surprisingly straightforward, requiring only a minor adjustment to ensure it sat flush against the frame.
During live-fire, the difference was immediately noticeable. The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66351 provided a much more substantial and secure purchase, even with slightly damp hands from the summer heat. The finger grooves naturally guided my hand into a consistent position, and the aggressive checkering on the Pau Ferro wood offered excellent purchase without being abrasive. The only minor surprise was how much more positive the grip felt compared to the factory rubber panels, providing a tangible increase in control.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of regular range visits and keeping the revolver readily accessible at home for handling practice, the Hogue grips have held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of cracking, loosening, or significant wear on the checkering. The Pau Ferro wood has maintained its finish and the subtle texture that contributes to its grip.
Compared to the factory grips which, over time, can become slightly slick, these Hogue grips maintain their tactile integrity. Cleaning is as simple as wiping them down with a slightly damp cloth to remove any dust or residue, and they dry quickly. I haven’t experienced any performance drop or need for further adjustments.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66351
Specifications
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66351 is specifically designed for Taurus medium and large frame revolvers with square butt configurations. The Pau Ferro wood offers a distinct aesthetic and tactile experience, a departure from more common rubber or synthetic materials. Its finger groove design is intended to promote a more natural and consistent hand placement, which is critical for accurate shooting. The checkered pattern on the grip surface is quite aggressive, designed to maximize friction and prevent slippage, even under strenuous conditions. This level of detail in the design aims to provide a significant upgrade over factory options.
These specifications are important because they directly impact shooter comfort and firearm control. The choice of Pau Ferro wood, known for its durability and fine grain, contributes to both the look and the feel of the grip. The finger grooves and aggressive checkering are not merely cosmetic; they are functional elements engineered to improve the shooter’s ability to manage recoil and maintain a steady aim. This contrasts with simpler, flat grips that offer less tactile feedback.
Performance & Functionality
In terms of its primary function, the Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66351 excels at enhancing grip security and comfort. The way the finger grooves align with a natural hand position significantly aids in consistent sight alignment. Recoil management is notably improved; the broader, more textured surface distributes felt recoil across the palm and fingers more effectively than many factory grips.
The key strength of this grip is its combination of aesthetic appeal and practical performance. The Pau Ferro wood offers a warm, organic feel that many shooters prefer, while the aggressive checkering provides tenacious grip. A minor point for consideration is that the aggressive nature of the checkering might be slightly uncomfortable for extended, casual handling without gloves for individuals with very sensitive skin, though this is unlikely to be an issue during active shooting. It meets and often exceeds expectations for a premium aftermarket grip.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of this Hogue grip is immediately evident. The Pau Ferro wood is finished smoothly, with the grain providing a subtle, natural texture even before the checkering. The grip feels solid and robust, with no perceptible flex or looseness when properly installed.
Ergonomically, the design is a significant improvement for revolvers that previously felt a bit “slippery” or poorly contoured. The finger grooves slot comfortably into my hand, guiding my index finger, middle finger, and ring finger into their intended positions. The thumb rest area, while not explicitly shaped, benefits from the overall increase in grip surface area and texture. The checkering pattern, while aggressive, is uniformly cut and does not present any sharp edges, only firm purchase.
Durability & Maintenance
Given the material and construction, this Hogue grip is built for longevity under typical shooting conditions. Pau Ferro wood is a dense hardwood known for its resistance to impact and wear. I anticipate this grip will last for many years of regular use.
Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a soft, dry cloth is usually sufficient for routine cleaning. For more stubborn grime or residues, a slightly damp cloth followed by immediate drying is all that’s needed. There are no complex parts to disassemble or maintain; it’s a fixed grip replacement. I have experienced no failure points or potential concerns with this model so far.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66351 is designed as a direct replacement for factory grips and typically does not come with additional accessories. However, its primary “customization” is the aesthetic and functional upgrade it provides. It’s designed to fit specific Taurus frame types, ensuring compatibility with standard revolver hardware.
There are no further modification options inherent to the grip itself, but its presence can influence the choice of holsters or other shooting accessories. For instance, a more substantial grip might require a slightly larger holster, though in this case, the increase in bulk is minimal.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66351
Pros
- Superior grip security due to aggressive Pau Ferro wood checkering.
- Enhanced comfort and control from well-designed finger grooves that promote consistent hand placement.
- Aesthetically pleasing with the natural beauty and warm tone of Pau Ferro wood.
- Durable construction promising long-term performance and resistance to wear.
- Direct fitment for compatible Taurus medium and large frame square butt revolvers.
Cons
- The aggressive checkering might feel slightly abrasive for those with very sensitive hands during prolonged, non-shooting handling.
- Limited color and material options compared to some synthetic grip manufacturers.
Who Should Buy Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66351?
This grip is an excellent choice for Taurus revolver owners who are looking to significantly improve the handling and shooting experience of their firearm. Shooters who prioritize a secure, positive grip, especially those who shoot in varying weather conditions or experience hand fatigue, will find immense value here. It is particularly well-suited for individuals who appreciate the natural look and feel of wood grips and want a substantial upgrade over basic factory options.
Those who need a sterile, easily sanitized grip for strict medical or laboratory environments should look elsewhere, as wood is porous. Similarly, if you’re seeking a grip that offers extreme shock absorption akin to some advanced rubber compounds, this might not be the primary choice, though it does significantly improve recoil management. For enhancing a Taurus Model 66, 82, or similar square butt revolver, this grip is a strong contender.
Conclusion on Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66351
The Hogue Taurus Med. & Lg. Sq. Butt Handgun Grip PauFerro Top Finger Groove, Checkered 66351 represents a notable upgrade for compatible Taurus revolvers. It masterfully blends aesthetic appeal with genuine functional improvements, offering enhanced control, comfort, and recoil management. The quality of the Pau Ferro wood and the precision of the checkering and finger grooves are evident from the moment you handle it. For its price point, the value proposition is strong, providing a significant enhancement to a firearm’s ergonomics. I would wholeheartedly recommend this grip to any Taurus square butt revolver owner looking to improve their shooting experience and the overall feel of their handgun. It’s a well-executed piece of engineering that truly makes a difference in practical application.