The Taurus 65 is a popular handgun known for its reliability and affordability. While its factory grips get the job done, many owners seek upgrades to enhance comfort, aesthetics, and even shooting performance. Upgrading to wood grips is a popular choice, offering a significant improvement in feel and look. This guide delves into the world of Taurus 65 wood grips, exploring the advantages, different types available, and factors to consider when making your selection.
Why Choose Wood Grips for Your Taurus 65?
Factory-installed plastic grips on the Taurus 65, while functional, often lack the ergonomic comfort and pleasing aesthetics many shooters desire. Wood grips offer several key advantages:
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Enhanced Grip: Wood grips provide a more substantial and textured feel, improving your control and reducing slippage, especially in sweaty or wet conditions. This translates to increased accuracy and better recoil management.
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Improved Aesthetics: Wood grips dramatically change the look of your Taurus 65, adding a touch of classic elegance and sophistication. They're available in various wood types and finishes, allowing for personalization to match your style.
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Increased Comfort: The warmth and natural texture of wood provide a more comfortable feel in the hand compared to cold, hard plastic. This is particularly beneficial during extended shooting sessions.
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Potential Value Increase: High-quality wood grips can even increase the resale value of your firearm, appealing to buyers who appreciate custom upgrades.
Types of Taurus 65 Wood Grips
The market offers a range of wood grip options for the Taurus 65, each with its own characteristics:
Material:
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Walnut: A classic and popular choice, walnut grips offer beautiful grain patterns and a rich, dark color. They are relatively durable and provide excellent grip.
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Cocobolo: This exotic hardwood boasts stunning, vibrant colors and intricate grain patterns. It's harder and more durable than walnut but can be more expensive.
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Rosewood: Rosewood grips offer a rich, reddish-brown hue and are known for their smooth texture and attractive grain.
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Other Woods: Various other wood types, such as maple, cherry, and even exotic imports, may be available from custom grip makers.
Styles:
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Standard Grips: These replicate the original grip shape and size, offering a familiar feel while enhancing the material and aesthetics.
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Custom Grips: Many grip makers offer custom-shaped grips that can improve ergonomics based on individual hand size and shooting style. These can provide a more tailored and comfortable fit.
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Checkered Grips: Checkered grips provide additional texturing for enhanced grip and control, especially beneficial for those with larger hands or who experience recoil sensitivity.
Choosing the Right Taurus 65 Wood Grips
Selecting the perfect wood grips depends on individual preferences and priorities:
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Consider your hand size and shooting style: Choose grips that fit your hand comfortably and provide adequate control.
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Think about aesthetics: Select a wood type and finish that complements your personal style and the overall look of your firearm.
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Check for quality and fit: Ensure the grips are made of high-quality materials and fit your Taurus 65 properly. Poorly fitting grips can affect performance and even damage your firearm.
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Read reviews: Before purchasing, read reviews from other Taurus 65 owners to gather insights on different brands and models.
Installation
While some individuals may be comfortable installing wood grips themselves, it's recommended to seek professional assistance if you lack experience. Improper installation can damage your firearm.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Taurus 65 with wood grips offers a significant improvement in both functionality and aesthetics. By considering your needs and preferences, you can find the perfect set to enhance your shooting experience and personalize your firearm. Remember to prioritize quality and proper installation to ensure a safe and satisfying upgrade.