340PD - Grip Options - Pls Help!

[C158]

Hello,

I am going to get one of these soon and would like to get some aftermarket grips for it. Since this gun is more "sporty" than a classic S&W I wanted a more unique modern look. I like the Kirinite series from Eagle Grips. They are spendy and there are mixed reviews on the brand in general. So before I take the plunge (if) are there any other brands that sell grips with similar traits or materials?

Also, under their "about us" they state they "design and manufactures every grip in our Carol Stream, IL location" I have read that they were made in India? Is this something they did in the past? I did call and inquire about them - nice people. Unaware of the reviews at that time and their history he had to check to see if they had the material in stock to make the grip for me, meaning they were going to get made right there from what it sounds like.


Thanks!

 

[M29since14]

I never considered the 340 particularly sporty. It's all business to me. Since it is a hideout gun, I don't use anything except the factory Hogue grips that came on my gun, but if I had to go to something bigger I would probably go to a Pachmayr Compac grip. (That's not going to happen. I'll just put up with the Hogue Bantam.)

My only experience with Eagle was positive, but I don't know anything about the style of grip you mention. Good luck with your new 340PD.

 

[C158]

Hello,

Thank you for the reply. I will look into those grips.

Any other suggestions?

Thanks!

 

[ContinentalOp]

I agree with M29since14 that the 340 doesn't strike me as being "sporty." But if you want to put snazzy grips on one, that's up to you.

I checked out the Kirinite grips. They certainly look interesting. I also like the Eagle Secret Service grips, which are what I saw in the Kirinite options. I don't know what the Kirinite material feels like, but it looks like it might be on the slick side which can be an issue on carry grips.

The Eagle Secret Service grips are more-or-less based on Spegel boot grips, which are my favorite J-frame snubby grips. I have a set of Spegels on my 642-1. The biggest problem with Spegels is that there's about a one year waiting list for new ones, the last I heard. Used ones come up for sale from time to time. I prefer darker color grips so they stand out less in case my guns gets accidentally uncovered for some reason. My Spegels are cocobolo. Eagle Secret Service grips are available in rosewood. If you can't find the Spegel boot grips, the Eagle Secret Service grips would be a viable option.

I also like PGS Hideout grips. They come in any color you want, as long as you want black. Their biggest drawback is that they don't work well with speedloaders unless you cut a relief in the grip with a Dremel tool or files/sandpaper. On the positive side, they're only about $20.

I don't have much experience with other J-frame grips. Some people like Altamonts, but I found their finger grooves to be too deep for my tastes. Ahrends are another option. I had a set of their J-frame boot grips once, but I didn't feel like they gave me a good enough purchase on the gun. I believe VZ Grips makes G10 boot grips in some interesting color combinations, but I've never tried them.

You can try a forum search as this topic has been covered before with many options given, though I believe this is the first time I've heard of Kirinite grips.

Grips can be a very personal item. What works for me may not work for you or anyone else. The only way to find out is to try them.