J frame Grips…

Boogsawaste

Member
Joined
Jun 2, 2013
Messages
1,475
Reaction score
1,181
Location
Quakertown PA
Hey guys been a bit since I’ve been on here. Figured I’d ask if anyone knows of any j frame boot grips that cover the back strap that may have come out in the last few years I don’t know about.i like the extra length of pull from a covered back strap but don’t prefer the 3 finger grips. I’ve been using Taurus boot grips for years and think they’re perfect but if S&w or an aftermarket company started making some S&w or unmarked ones I’d love to try them. Thanks!
 
Register to hide this ad
The Crimson trace LG405 is a boot grip that has a back strap. But it’s pretty thin. I’ve seen pictures of the 3 finger grips cut flush with the butt of the gun to make a boot grip. And some of the thicker boot grips like VZ or Cool Hand (Amazon) seem to help with the reach.
 
Actually the 405 is a superb grip. That backstrap covering is not the common rubber that grips are made of.

It is a much softer rubber that contains an air pocket to dampen felt recoil. I have them on the Model 340 that I pocket carry. Those grips have been subjected to over 7,000 rounds of full power 357 Magnum ammunition. It is pictured in the lower left of this image

j-frames2s.jpg


None of the remaining grips in this image cover the backstrap.

Hogue makes a version of the monogrip for the J-frame that also covers the backstrap

I am sure you know, but others reading this thread might not take this into consideration, covered backstraps move your hand farther from the trigger so they have a somewhat longer length of pull.

This is only an issue to folks with medium or small hands.

So if you have a chance to try before you buy that us always good

If you didn't live in Pennsylvania I would let you try any of the J-frames in our training inventory or my personal 340 if you wanted
 
The best I have ever seen are the 2-finger grips Taurus put on their older revolvers. Like these in the photo below.

You have to drill them internally for the cross pin in the bottom of the grip frame - Taurus has a pin too, but it isn't centered like on the S&W grip frame.

These have a nice thick layer of medium soft rubber over the backstrap, and the pebble finish gives a decent grip without being sticky or snagging clothing.

Lastly, they also have a hint of a palmswell, so they are very hand-filling.
 

Attachments

  • M605.JPG
    M605.JPG
    18.5 KB · Views: 47
Last edited:
Thanks guys. I forgot about the crimson trace to be honest. I’m not a fan of lasers but the grip looks about right. I have large hands so as colt_saa brought up I like the increase in length. It helps to mitigate curling my trigger finger towards the end of the pull. I’ll keep my eyes peeled for a used set or possibly a set with a faulty laser to keep the cost down. Appreciate the offer about trying yours but Pennsylvania is a hike!

As BC38 pointed out Taurus hit it out of the park with the Taurus boot grip. I have 3 pairs already but call me a snob I hate the Taurus emblem :o I’ve grinded them down or stuck cut down 38 brass in them. I know, I’ve got problems. Hes also right about the pin hole needing to be drilled which is easy enough. Just squish the grips on and when you take them off you’ll see an indent where you have to drill.

Never looked into the herretts but will.

Thanks all!
 

Attachments

  • IMG_2199.jpg
    IMG_2199.jpg
    54.6 KB · Views: 40
Last edited:
You have to drill them internally for the cross pin in the bottom of the grip frame - Taurus has a pin too, but it isn't centered like on the S&W grip frame.
[/QUOTE]

I have nothing against drilling on a Taurus grip, but as a reminder the S&W pin is very easy to both pull and replace with a light grip on some pliers

Other rubber type grips I've tried didn't need the pin to hold them in place. YMMV.
 
@ Boogsawaste

Why change to another grip when the Taurus o.e.m's have worked out well for you? How does that old saying go ... If it ain't broke, ...
However, it probably never hurts to have alternative grip brands on hand when you feel like rearranging the furniture for change. Herrett's look intriguing to me, and they look like they fill the palm swell quite well. From the photos here on this thread ... it makes me want a pair for myself. Sorry that I can't really recommend anything here other than just an observation Well... I hope you do find a good alternative. Best.
 
Last edited:
@ Boogsawaste

Why change to another grip when the Taurus o.e.m's have worked out well for you? How does that old saying go ... If it ain't broke, ...
However, it probably never hurts to have alternative grip brands on hand when you feel like rearranging the furniture for change. Herrett's look intriguing to me, and they look like they fill the palm swell quite well. From the photos here on this thread ... it makes me want a pair for myself. Sorry that I can't really recommend anything here other than just an observation Well... I hope you do find a good alternative. Best.

I guess to see what other options are out there. You’re probably right though.
 
I’ve been using Taurus boot grips for years and think they’re perfect ...
Hes also right about the pin hole needing to be drilled which is easy enough. Just squish the grips on and when you take them off you’ll see an indent where you have to drill.

LOL, I wonder if I beat you to the concept? :D
Actually, I find it easier to just punch out the J-frame's locator pin.
No need for such with the Taurus grip.

Actually the 405 is a superb grip. That backstrap covering is not the common rubber that grips are made of.

It is a much softer rubber that contains an air pocket to dampen felt recoil.

I very much agree. I have asked if they plan to offer the grip, alone, without the lazer module.
 
LOL, I wonder if I beat you to the concept? :D
Actually, I find it easier to just punch out the J-frame's locator pin.
No need for such with the Taurus grip.



I very much agree. I have asked if they plan to offer the grip, alone, without the lazer module.

Did you get a response about that grip without a laser? I’d definitely like to try
 
Boogsawaste,
I am 1 month into S&w revolver ownership, and I feel your angst. I come from 20 years of shotgun (trap and bird hunting) and I'm all about "custom fit".
I have tried many different grip types and materials on my three J-frames. I daily (pocket) carry my M&P 340. I initially thought I liked combat 3-finger grips best, because they look and feel great, but once I started firing 100 rounds per day / twice a week at my range, I realized they were too small for my XL gloves hands. I can no longer use grips that don't cover the backstrap. I actually have a thread about a beautiful set of faux-ivory grips that broke against my thumb knuckle.
I definitely need full RB grips, and I hate the way rubber grips feel. S&W rubber grips feel "greasy" to me, and they and Hogue rubbers just "hang up" when drawing from a sweatshirt/jacket pocket.
I like wood or synthetic.

I just got these Altemont Bateleur grips in rosewood and they are the ABSOLUTE best feeling grips I have tried. WAY better than the 4 pair of Hogue, better than several S&W off epay.
They fill the thumb web and place my trigger finger perfectly on the trigger.

Since you don't like 3-finger grips I would suggest cutting and refinishing them as boot/bantam grips. I am very picky and these grips really feel good in hand. You can get an un-checkered set on Amazon for 49 or so bucks. Some sanding and Minwax and you'll be all set.
 

Attachments

  • 20231211_210108.jpg
    20231211_210108.jpg
    100.5 KB · Views: 34
  • 20231211_210026.jpg
    20231211_210026.jpg
    54.1 KB · Views: 27
  • 20231211_211103.jpg
    20231211_211103.jpg
    47.5 KB · Views: 28
  • 20231211_210739.jpg
    20231211_210739.jpg
    90.7 KB · Views: 33
Last edited:
Here are some picks of what an "open back strap" grip feels in my XL hands. There is a hollow space in my thumb web that the frame slams back in when fired. And if I adjust my grip to close the space (which doesn't feel natural) my finger goes too far through the trigger hole.

Altemont RB Bateleur (sp?) Grips are the best I've handled and still easily pocket carry.
 

Attachments

  • 20231211_220048.jpg
    20231211_220048.jpg
    61.2 KB · Views: 15
  • 20231211_220106.jpg
    20231211_220106.jpg
    52.2 KB · Views: 17
  • 20231211_220224.jpg
    20231211_220224.jpg
    114.3 KB · Views: 16
Here are some picks of what an "open back strap" grip feels in my XL hands. There is a hollow space in my thumb web that the frame slams back in when fired. And if I adjust my grip to close the space (which doesn't feel natural) my finger goes too far through the trigger hole.

Altemont RB Bateleur (sp?) Grips are the best I've handled and still easily pocket carry.

Try a pair of the Taurus grips I suggested in post #4. For large hands they really fit the bill.
 
Boogsawaste,
I am 1 month into S&w revolver ownership, and I feel your angst. I come from 20 years of shotgun (trap and bird hunting) and I'm all about "custom fit".
I have tried many different grip types and materials on my three J-frames. I daily (pocket) carry my M&P 340. I initially thought I liked combat 3-finger grips best, because they look and feel great, but once I started firing 100 rounds per day / twice a week at my range, I realized they were too small for my XL gloves hands. I can no longer use grips that don't cover the backstrap. I actually have a thread about a beautiful set of faux-ivory grips that broke against my thumb knuckle.
I definitely need full RB grips, and I hate the way rubber grips feel. S&W rubber grips feel "greasy" to me, and they and Hogue rubbers just "hang up" when drawing from a sweatshirt/jacket pocket.
I like wood or synthetic.

I just got these Altemont Bateleur grips in rosewood and they are the ABSOLUTE best feeling grips I have tried. WAY better than the 4 pair of Hogue, better than several S&W off epay.
They fill the thumb web and place my trigger finger perfectly on the trigger.

Since you don't like 3-finger grips I would suggest cutting and refinishing them as boot/bantam grips. I am very picky and these grips really feel good in hand. You can get an un-checkered set on Amazon for 49 or so bucks. Some sanding and Minwax and you'll be all set.

Thank you! Making them boot grip would work for me I believe. They just fit better in my pocket.
 
Back
Top