So here's the conundrum - I have a 642 with Barami Hip Grips on it that I love slipping inside my waistband for a quick scoot to walk the dog or run to the grocery store when I don't want to belt up and strap on a holster and a bigger gun. BUT, I hate shooting that sumvamitch due to the recoil - in fact, it slips in my hand so much on each shot that I have to re-adjust my grip after each shot. I've got the Desantis clip grips also, but they just don't do it for me feel-wise.
So, what to do? If I start adding grips the size of Pachmayr Compacs (which I have on my 3" 337 and absolutely love) I lose the advantage of a snubby J-frame - that is, it's no longer a small gun that I can slip in my waistband and now requires a holster, the grips take up too much space, etc., etc.. Next thing you know I'm justifying why I may as well take a K-frame model 66 or my Beretta 92FS instead.
What's the solution?

Try those rubber slip on grips that fit the little 380 & 9mm Autos. I remember before they came came out guys used a piece of inner tube also. Then there is the old skate board tape. I've seen guys use rubber bands but they dry out and fall apart.

__________________
Two Handguns every day

In addition to the rubber grip, try adding a grip adapter, such as the Tyler T-grip adapter. Is the BK adapter still around?

There's actually a method I've seen referred to as the "Werner Carry System", for snub training expert Claude Werner. Basically, it's a Barami Hip-Grip, Tyler T-grip adapter, and a Hogue Handall Jr. installed upside down on the grip.

Here's a link to Michael deBethencourt's blog where he describes how to set it up with pictures: Snub Training – Werner Carry System* |

Outstanding! I think I like that - thanks for passing it along.

I agree with adding some traction in some sort of fashion. Maybe some sort of grip tape or a rubber sleeve of some sort.

I've seen guys use rubber bands or pieces of bicycle inner tube that actually worked quite well if you didn't want to splurge and buy something.

The first M&P that I used for IDPA was a little too slick for my liking so I used some cloth tape that my kid used for his hockey sticks. Looked a little tacky but really improved the grip and didn't add any bulk.

That's what I saw looks like the best way to go for the hip grip.

__________________
Two Handguns every day

I've tried almost everything on my Js and nothing is better for me than the UM boot grip or the S&W knock-off which seems to be OEM now on most snub Js. As to carry, the old suede clip pouch IWB adds almost no weight, affords a clean draw and protects against perspiration.

Kaaskop49
Shield#5103

I tried the Hip grip, Tyler, Handall, trio on my 442 and it was the most comfortable grip other than Pacs for shooting, but it was too bulky for pocket carry which I prefer.
If I was just sticking it in my waistband sans holster, I'd stay with it but I prefer using a holster.

Yep.....works like a charm.

Attached Images

004.jpg (69.8 KB, 78 views)

Maybe this, along with some Compac Pro grips (not the regular Compac) is a better solution for me.

Tom, I've spent many pleasant hours installing and removing "countless" grips on my J-frames looking for that perfect fit. It's a rite of passage for a J-hound. Wish you well and good shooting!

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

...And nothing looks more professional and personal than this mode of carry, IMHO.

Kaaskop49
Shield #5103

For those still wondering, BK Grips is indeed still making the two clip grip adapters. I'm having trouble keeping black adapters in stock, but I keep working on it.

Apologies for the delayed response, but I haven't been on these forums much recently due to other family matters and activities. And thanks for all the support - this might be the best year yet for these little things.

Ray1970 may have the best answer. Since I do not use a Barami Hip Grip (singular), I can use what I found many years ago (1990) to be the best pair of grips for me for use on my 642 - factory M36 Magnas, WITHOUT a Tyler. The LH Magna grip panel allowed my right middle finger to exert a lot of pressure against the checkering on that panel.

If I am not mistaken, current Barami Hip Grips come as a pair. The left panel is undoubtedly as slippery as the right. You might try repacing the left panel with an M36 LH Magna panel.

Good luck!

Been around this block several times...I really missed the boat with Uncle Mike's boot grips,I bought a used set a long time ago and they got set aside while I tried everything else under the sun. Tried them again and they really are the cats meow for pocketable size and fill the palm better for me than the Bantams I was using. I carry a pair of 340 scandium j frames with 357 short barrel gold dots these Uncle Mikes have a unique shape that gives my thumb a spot to press down on that many other grips do not, this helps with the muzzle flip while shooting these lite magnum rounds. Also the tops of the grip sides/horns don't flex foreword like other rubber grips exposing the corners of the frame where it impacts the web most, helping to spread the impact of recoil. There are more comfortable grips out there for sure, but for me they do not carry well in the pocket and these seem to be the best I can pocket and still shoot well.

I found the goofy looking Ergo Delta grip to be the absolutely best grip I've ever used on a J frame, and I've tried at least a dozen different stocks on mine over the last 30 years. Give them a try, they are certainly cheap enough.

No, sorry, the Delta grip is just so ugly I think I'd rather arm myself with a sharp stick instead.

LOL. I understand, but your loss!

The Barami Hip Grip, Tyler-T, and rubber combo is a favorite. It's great for deep concealment in warm weather. Carry a lot of J and K frame Smiths and D frame Colts that way. In fact, it works particularly well with K frame snubs (like this Model 12). The belt fits perfectly between the grip and recoil shield to hold it in place.








Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Consider using a lighter load ?