Just got a 69, liking it so far but haven't shot it.

I am considering the length of the stock grip and am looking at a shorter boot grip type. I prefer Pachmyar and see a a lot of guys choosing the Diamond Pro Series Grips.
Can anyone comment on if the Diamond Pros are shorter in height than the S&W stock grips

I ordered Diamond Pro's for my 686 round butt they look to be same length as OE factory grips .

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I had a Diamond Pro on a 642... while it is an excellent grip, I didn't like that I had to remove the frame pin at the heel to install it... it meant I couldn't swap back to other grips without reinstalling the pin.

I now have a set of Pachmayr Compac's and like them just as much as I liked the Diamond Pro. And the pin stays.

Are the Compacs open at the backstrap? I tried the Diamond Pros on my 625 and liked them but with the backstrap filled in I found the trigger reach a bit long.

Should have watched installation video , don't want to remove the pin either so will have to return or sell them . Really not needed have Ahrends and older Pachmayr grip

The Compac's I have cover the backstrap. They are my fave so far for range time.

While not what you asked, have Houge Bantams on mine and like em.

Appreciate all the responses, not having shot it yet, I’ll give the stock ones a go. If it’s a keeper then I’ll try the Pacs.

I have a couple very similar 696's and my favorite grips after trying several are the Altamont Altai K-round conversion grips.
They are similar in shape, comfort, and pointing to a Miculek grip.
The rubber grips are fine for the range, but for carry they can hang on your clothes.
These plywood grips are so comfortable to shoot with Specials I never went back to the Goodyears.
If you try a set of these, get the ones without the medallions.
That leaves the left panel a little thinner and easier to speed load.
Smith & Wesson K/L Frame Round Butt Revolver Grips | Altamont Company
They have excellent customer service.
One of these sets stood a little proud of the backstrap.
They said send it back.
Got it back about a week later and was perfect.
No charge except the one way ship and that wasn't much.

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