I used to put talcom powder on the slippery rubber grips. But I changed the rubber ones for these rosewood. I bought them direct from S&W. I didn't know if I would like them, round butt, and slight finger grooves. Firing one or two rounds don't tell you too much. So last weekend I shot a 100 reloads and guess what.? I love them. I had my model 29 with Hoque square stocks to compare them. Because of the mild loads, the shots with the new round butt worked better than I thought they would. Normally I prefer sq. I guess it has to to so with the size and weight of the 696. I hope you like your new grips, it sounds like you do. :-)

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JIM
NRA Pistol Instr