J-frame grip solution

K-framer

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After trying a number of grips (and modifying some)...for my 442-1.... trying to retain the boot grip style but yet gain a significant reduction in recoil....I think I have hit on a solution.

Taurus sells a boot grip for $9.00 (yes, $9.00) that fits the S&W frame PERFECTLY, except that the locator pin holes are a bit off. I simply drilled new holes in the grip halves, in the right place for the J-frame. The frames are evidently of EXACTLY the same dimensions - because the grip fit literally could not be better.

The Taurus grip is molded from a firm, resilient polymer (I think perhaps nylon)....but has enough "give" to soak up the recoil, with NO excessive "squishiness". (I found that every aftermarket grip I've tried, that is promoted to reduce recoil, is far too soft for good control.) It is equipped with it's own locator pins, to keep the two halves aligned. As I wished, the backstrap is covered, but the boot grip design is retained. The thickness of the Taurus grip is not excessive, so concealment is not a problem (any more so that with the stock S&W grip). It fits my medium sized hand, but with long fingers, very nicely.

Frankly, especially for $9.00, the Taurus grip beats the heck out of the stock S&W grips for this gun - and ANYTHING else I have tried.

And the shooting ? Recoil is significantly reduced, yet I found that control is not compromised in any way. This grip has made my 442 a real PLEASURE to shoot.

So, I thought I'd pass this on, in case anyone else might find it useful. Sacreligious perhaps to put lowly Taurus grips on a Smith & Wesson, but in this case, I think Taurus has the better product - better design, anyway.

Pics below :
 

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They were siblings at one time, great idea on that, esp for those with the Ti/scan guns.
 
LOL, I've recommended these to a few folks in a couple of other threads. Looks like yours have the Taurus logo molded into the rubber? The older ones have a little brass medallion instead.

One member here cut the bottoms off a couple of 38 special cases, and substituted them for the Taurus medallions. Worked perfectly and looked pretty cool too.
 
No, the grips pictured have the (brass ?) Taurus medallions. I just wanted to cover them up, so I painted them flat black.

Never really believed that I was the first one to think of the idea, there had to be others before me. I am just pleased that they fit so well - and shoot so well.
 
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Replaced the Bantam Grip on my S&W 642 several years ago with a Hogue, Model 1711024, Molded Rubber. Simple install and a great feeling of control. Have been running 50 rounds a week through mine for the past 6 - 7 years.
 

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