Hogue Ruger Redhawk Grip – Checkered 86935 Review

Was the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935 the Right Choice?

The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935 is a premium aftermarket grip designed to enhance the ergonomics and aesthetics of the Ruger Redhawk revolver. Crafted by Hogue, a respected name in firearm accessories, this grip boasts a beautiful rosewood finish, a comfortable “big butt” design, and functional checkering for improved handling. Its no finger groove design caters to a wider range of hand sizes, promising a more secure and personalized shooting experience.

For years, I’ve been chasing that perfect grip for my Redhawk. The factory grips, while functional, always felt a little…lacking. My hands are on the larger side, and I found myself constantly adjusting my grip, especially during longer range sessions.

Upon unboxing the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935, the immediate impression was one of quality. The rosewood was richly colored and smoothly finished, the checkering was crisp and aggressive without being abrasive, and the grip felt substantial in my hand. The “big butt” design seemed like it would provide the extra purchase I was looking for.

I considered the Pachmayr Presentation Grip, a classic for revolvers, but its finger grooves didn’t always suit my hand placement. I also looked at some synthetic options, but the appeal of real wood and the promise of improved recoil absorption steered me towards the Hogue grip. My initial excitement was definitely high. This felt like the upgrade my Redhawk deserved.

Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935 to the Test

First Use Experience

My first outing with the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935 was at my local outdoor range. The weather was typical for a summer afternoon: warm and humid. I ran through a couple of hundred rounds of .44 Magnum, focusing on both slow, deliberate shots and rapid-fire strings.

The immediate difference was noticeable. The Hogue grip filled my hand much better than the factory grips, providing a secure and comfortable purchase. Even with sweaty hands, the checkering provided excellent grip, and the “big butt” design helped to manage recoil effectively. There were no initial issues; the grip felt perfectly natural in my hand from the very first shot.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months and countless rounds downrange, the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935 continues to impress. The rosewood has held up beautifully, showing no signs of cracking or splitting, even after being subjected to some pretty harsh recoil. Cleaning is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps the wood looking pristine.

Compared to my previous experiences with other aftermarket grips, the Hogue truly excels. It provides a superior combination of comfort, control, and aesthetics. This grip hasn’t just met my expectations; it has far exceeded them.

Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935

Specifications

• The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935 is specifically designed for the Ruger Redhawk revolver. Its rosewood construction provides a beautiful aesthetic and natural feel.
• It features a no finger groove design to accommodate a wider variety of hand sizes and grip preferences. The checkered surface ensures a secure grip, even in adverse conditions.
• The “Big Butt” design extends the grip slightly, offering increased surface area for better recoil absorption and control. It is finished in a visually appealing rosewood color.
• The grip is manufactured by Hogue, a well-known and respected company specializing in high-quality firearm accessories. The Hogue grip enhances both the appearance and functionality of the Ruger Redhawk.

These specifications are important because they directly impact the shooter’s comfort, control, and overall experience. The choice of rosewood provides a classic look, while the absence of finger grooves and the presence of checkering ensure a comfortable and secure grip for a wide range of users.

Performance & Functionality

The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935 significantly enhances the shooting experience with the Ruger Redhawk. It excels in providing a secure, comfortable, and controllable grip.

Its strengths lie in its superior recoil absorption, enhanced grip texture, and comfortable ergonomics. The only minor weakness might be the price point compared to synthetic options, but the improved performance and aesthetics justify the cost. This grip absolutely meets and exceeds expectations for a premium revolver grip.

Design & Ergonomics

The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935 boasts exceptional build quality, utilizing high-quality rosewood for both durability and aesthetics. Its weight is well-balanced, adding a sense of stability to the revolver without feeling cumbersome.

The grip is exceptionally user-friendly, requiring no learning curve. The no-finger-groove design and the checkered surface provide immediate comfort and control.

Durability & Maintenance

The rosewood construction of the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935 ensures long-lasting durability. With proper care, this grip should last for many years of reliable service.

Maintenance is straightforward, requiring only occasional cleaning and oiling to preserve the wood’s natural beauty and integrity. The grip’s simple design also means that there are no small parts to break or replace.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935 is primarily a grip replacement and doesn’t come with additional accessories. While it doesn’t directly support customization options like adjustable backstraps, it’s compatible with any Ruger Redhawk that accepts aftermarket grips.

Its classic design complements a wide range of holsters and other accessories. Its high-quality construction ensures it will remain a reliable and aesthetically pleasing component of your Ruger Redhawk.

Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935

Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935?

The Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935 is perfect for Ruger Redhawk owners who prioritize comfort, control, and aesthetics. It is ideal for hunters, competitive shooters, and recreational shooters who demand a high-quality grip that can withstand heavy use and harsh conditions. Anyone looking to upgrade their Redhawk with a touch of classic elegance and improved performance will appreciate this grip.

Those who are primarily concerned with budget and prioritize function over form might consider synthetic alternatives. Shooters with smaller hands who prefer finger grooves might also find other options more suitable.

A quality holster that accommodates the slightly larger “big butt” grip would be a must-have accessory. Regular cleaning and oiling supplies for maintaining the rosewood finish are also recommended.

Conclusion on Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935

In summary, the Hogue Ruger Redhawk Handgun Grip Rosewood No Finger Groove Big Butt Checkered 86935 is an exceptional aftermarket grip that significantly enhances the Ruger Redhawk’s performance and aesthetics. The price is justified by the superior comfort, control, and durability it provides.

I would wholeheartedly recommend this grip to any Redhawk owner looking to upgrade their shooting experience. It is an investment in both performance and beauty, and one that will undoubtedly pay off in the long run. Upgrade your Redhawk today and experience the difference a quality grip can make!