Uncovering the Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670: Real Review
The Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670 promises enhanced control and comfort for the venerable Smith & Wesson Model 41 target pistol. It boasts a beautiful kingwood construction and a thoughtfully designed left-hand thumb rest. But does this grip live up to Hogue’s reputation for quality and improve the shooting experience?
I had been experiencing some discomfort and inconsistent grip issues with the factory grips on my Model 41. The factory grips, while functional, felt a little too slim for my larger hands, leading to fatigue during extended target sessions. I needed a grip that would fill my hand better and provide a more stable platform for accurate shooting.
Upon unboxing the Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670, the first thing that struck me was the quality of the kingwood. The wood grain is beautiful and the finish is smooth and rich. The grip feels solid and well-made, instilling confidence in its durability.
I considered other grips like the Pachmayr Signature Grips and the Nill-Griffe target grips. I ultimately chose the Hogue grip for its combination of aesthetics, ergonomic design, and the added benefit of the left-hand thumb rest, a feature I felt could improve my stability. My initial impression was one of excitement. This grip looked like it could be the perfect solution for improving my Model 41 shooting experience.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670 at my local indoor shooting range. I put about 200 rounds through my Model 41, focusing on slow, controlled fire and rapid target acquisition drills. The temperature in the range was a consistent 70 degrees Fahrenheit with moderate humidity.
The grip provided a significant improvement in control compared to the factory grips. The thumb rest allowed for a more consistent and repeatable grip, reducing muzzle flip and improving accuracy. There were no issues with slippage, even with slightly sweaty hands.
The installation was straightforward. However, I did notice that the screws needed to be tightened firmly to prevent the grip from shifting during firing. After tightening the screws more than I originally thought necessary, the grip remained secure for the remainder of the shooting session.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of significant wear and tear. The kingwood finish remains pristine, and the grip still feels as solid as the day I installed it.
Cleaning the grip is simple. I just wipe it down with a slightly damp cloth after each shooting session. I’ve also occasionally used a high-quality furniture polish to maintain the wood’s luster.
Compared to my previous experience with the factory grips, the Hogue grip offers a substantial improvement in comfort and control. The thumb rest is a game-changer for consistent accuracy, and the overall feel in hand is far superior. This grip has exceeded my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Hogue
- Gun Make: Smith & Wesson
- Color: Kingwood
- Configuration: Left-hand thumb rest
These specifications highlight the purpose-built nature of this grip. The kingwood provides both aesthetic appeal and a durable gripping surface. The left-hand thumb rest caters specifically to left-handed shooters seeking enhanced control.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670 excels at providing a secure and comfortable grip. The thumb rest provides a consistent point of contact for the support hand, promoting stability and reducing muzzle flip. This results in improved accuracy and faster follow-up shots.
The main strength lies in its ergonomic design and the positive impact it has on shooting consistency. One potential area for improvement could be the included screws. Perhaps including screws made with stronger material might increase user confidence. It meets and exceeds my expectations for a premium handgun grip.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670 is crafted from beautifully figured kingwood, providing a classic and elegant aesthetic. The grip’s ergonomic design fills the hand comfortably, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions. The weight is negligible, adding no noticeable bulk to the pistol.
The installation process is straightforward, requiring only a screwdriver. The grip’s shape naturally guides the hand into a proper shooting position. There is no significant learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The kingwood construction ensures excellent durability. The grip is resistant to scratches and wear. With proper care, the Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670 should last for many years.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth and occasional polishing will keep the grip looking its best. There are no user-serviceable parts, and repairs are unlikely to be needed.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670 is primarily a standalone grip. It doesn’t directly interface with other accessories. However, it is compatible with any Smith & Wesson Model 41 that accepts aftermarket grips.
The grip itself does not offer any further customization options beyond the initial installation. Some users may choose to add grip tape for enhanced texture, but this is a matter of personal preference. Aftermarket grip screws might be another option.
Pros and Cons of Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670
Pros
- Beautiful kingwood construction.
- Significantly improved grip and control compared to factory grips.
- Left-hand thumb rest promotes consistent and accurate shooting.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Durable and long-lasting.
Cons
- Relatively expensive compared to some other grip options.
- Screws require extra tightening to avoid movement.
Who Should Buy Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670?
The Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670 is perfect for left-handed competitive shooters and target enthusiasts seeking improved accuracy and control. It’s also ideal for anyone who finds the factory grips on their Model 41 uncomfortable or inadequate.
Right-handed shooters or those who prefer thinner grips might want to skip this product. Shooters on a very tight budget might also want to consider less expensive options.
A must-have modification (should it be needed) would be to replace the grip screws with higher quality screws.
Conclusion on Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670
The Hogue S&W 41 Handgun Grip Kingwood Left hand thumb rest 41670 is a premium accessory that elevates the shooting experience with the Smith & Wesson Model 41. The price is justified by the quality of materials, the ergonomic design, and the noticeable improvement in performance.
I would wholeheartedly recommend it to any left-handed shooter looking to enhance their accuracy and comfort. If you’re serious about your Model 41 and want the best possible grip, look no further. Upgrade your Model 41 today and experience the difference a quality grip can make!
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