Why Choose Wood Grips for Your Ruger LCR?
Aesthetics & Style
The Ruger LCR, with its polymer frame and often, its rubber or polymer grips, provides a functional package, but many owners seek to personalize their revolvers and improve their shooting experience. One of the most effective ways to accomplish this is by upgrading to wooden grips. This article delves into the world of wooden grips for the Ruger LCR, exploring their advantages, the considerations involved in choosing the right set, and the care required to maintain their beauty and performance.
Enhanced Grip & Control
The simple act of replacing your factory grips with wooden ones can transform the look and feel of your Ruger LCR. The aesthetic appeal of wood is undeniable. It possesses a natural warmth and richness that polymer and rubber simply cannot replicate. Whether you prefer the classic look of walnut, the exotic grain of rosewood, or the lighter tones of maple, wooden grips offer a level of customization that allows you to create a truly unique firearm. Wood speaks of tradition and craftsmanship, adding a touch of elegance to the utilitarian nature of a concealed carry revolver. Each piece of wood possesses its own distinctive grain pattern, making every grip a one-of-a-kind creation.
Comfort & Feel
Beyond the visual, wooden grips can dramatically improve the way your LCR feels in your hand. The texture of wood, when properly finished, offers a more secure grip than some factory options. This can be especially important when dealing with the recoil of cartridges like .357 Magnum. A well-shaped wood grip provides better control, helping you manage the kick and maintain a solid hold for follow-up shots. The shape of the grip itself plays a crucial role. Many wood grips are designed with features like finger grooves or contoured panels that naturally guide your hand into the correct position, promoting a consistent and accurate grip every time.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Wood Grips
Wood Type & Quality
Comfort is a significant factor, especially when considering the LCR’s intended purpose as a concealed carry weapon. Wooden grips, properly fitted and finished, can be surprisingly comfortable. The natural texture of the wood can feel much more pleasant against the skin than the often sticky or rough feel of some polymer grips. Wood also tends to distribute pressure more evenly across the palm of your hand, reducing fatigue during extended range sessions. Over time, a wood grip will often conform slightly to the shape of your hand, further enhancing the comfort and feel.
Grip Design & Ergonomics
Selecting the right wood grips for your Ruger LCR requires careful consideration. The quality of the wood itself is paramount. Different wood species possess varying characteristics in terms of density, hardness, and grain patterns. For example, walnut is a popular choice due to its durability, beautiful grain, and relatively moderate cost. Rosewood offers a richer, darker appearance, but can be more expensive and potentially prone to cracking if not properly cared for. Maple provides a lighter color and often a more subtle grain, making it a good option for a more understated look. The choice of wood will ultimately depend on your aesthetic preferences, your budget, and the intended use of your LCR.
Fit & Installation
The finish applied to the wood is equally important. The finish serves two crucial purposes: protecting the wood from moisture, oils, and wear; and enhancing its appearance. Common finishes include oil, varnish, and polyurethane. Oil finishes tend to penetrate the wood, providing a natural look and feel, but they may require more frequent maintenance. Varnish and polyurethane create a harder, more durable surface, offering better protection against the elements, but they can also detract slightly from the natural feel of the wood. Choosing the right finish will depend on the climate you live in, the amount of use your LCR will receive, and your personal preferences.
Concealability
The design and ergonomics of the grip are crucial for both comfort and control. Consider the shape of the grip, the presence or absence of finger grooves, and the overall profile. Some grips are designed to fill the hand more completely, providing a larger surface area for gripping and better recoil absorption. Others are more compact, prioritizing concealability. Experimenting with different grip styles can help you find the one that best suits your hand size and shooting style. The angle of the grip, the location of the checkering (if any), and the overall balance of the grip can significantly impact your ability to quickly acquire the target and manage recoil.
Popular Wood Grip Options for the Ruger LCR
Altamont Company
Fit and installation are critical for both safety and performance. Always choose grips specifically designed for the Ruger LCR. Poorly fitted grips can move during shooting, potentially causing malfunctions or even injury. Installation is usually straightforward, often involving the use of a few screws. However, ensure you follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. A secure and properly fitted grip will not only enhance your shooting experience but also ensure that the internal mechanisms of your LCR function correctly.
Hogue
Concealability is often a primary concern for LCR owners. While wooden grips can add a touch of elegance, they can also increase the overall size of the grip. Full-size wooden grips might make the LCR more difficult to conceal, especially if you are already using a relatively tight-fitting holster. Consider the trade-off between aesthetics and concealability when choosing your grips. Compact wooden grips are available that maintain the sleek profile of the LCR while still offering the benefits of wood. The type of holster you use and your preferred method of carry will also influence your decision.
Pachmayr
Several reputable manufacturers produce high-quality wooden grips specifically for the Ruger LCR.
Altamont is known for its wide selection of grips, including many wooden options. They offer a variety of wood types, finishes, and designs, making it easy to find a grip that suits your needs. Their grips are often available with beautiful checkering patterns and laser-etched designs. Altamont grips are generally known for their excellent fit and finish, and they offer a good balance of quality and value.
Hogue is a well-known name in the firearms industry, renowned for its quality grips. While primarily known for their rubber grips, Hogue also offers a selection of wood grips for the LCR. Their wood grips often feature a comfortable design with well-placed finger grooves and excellent recoil absorption. Hogue grips are generally known for their durability and their ability to provide a secure and comfortable grip, even in wet conditions.
Pachmayr, a pioneer in the firearms grip market, is well known for their rubber grips but also offers some wood grip options. They often feature designs focused on comfort and control, offering excellent recoil absorption.
When considering different grips, pay attention to the specific wood type and finish, the grip style, and the overall design. Reviews from other users can provide valuable insights into the quality of the fit, the feel in hand, and the overall satisfaction with the product.
Care & Maintenance of Wood Grips
Wood, being a natural material, requires proper care to maintain its beauty and longevity. Regular cleaning is essential to remove dirt, oil, and fingerprints that can accumulate over time. Use a soft cloth and a mild cleaning solution specifically designed for wood or firearms. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the finish.
Protecting the Wood
Protecting the wood from moisture is crucial. While a good finish provides some protection, exposure to water or excessive humidity can lead to warping, cracking, or damage to the finish. If your grips get wet, dry them thoroughly and apply a protective oil or wax.
Long Term Care
Regular application of a high-quality oil or wax can help nourish the wood, maintain its finish, and enhance its resistance to wear. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for the specific product you are using. When you store your LCR, avoid exposing the wood grips to extreme temperatures or direct sunlight, as this can accelerate the aging process.
Repairing the Finish
If the finish on your grips becomes worn or damaged, it can be restored. Lightly sand the surface to remove any imperfections, then reapply the appropriate finish. This process can bring your grips back to their original glory and extend their lifespan.
Conclusion
Upgrading to wooden grips is a worthwhile investment for any Ruger LCR owner. Wooden grips not only enhance the appearance of your revolver, imbuing it with a classic and elegant aesthetic, but also offer potential improvements in handling, comfort, and control. By carefully considering the factors discussed in this article – the wood type, the design and ergonomics, the fit and installation, and the impact on concealability – you can choose a set of grips that perfectly complements your LCR and enhances your shooting experience.
Whether you are seeking to improve the look of your firearm or simply seeking an edge in its handling, the right set of wooden grips can elevate your Ruger LCR to a new level of performance and personalization. With the proper care and maintenance, your wood grips will provide years of service and enjoyment. So, explore the wide variety of available options and choose the perfect grips to transform your Ruger LCR into a truly unique and exceptional firearm. The subtle beauty and tangible connection to craftsmanship, will add a new layer of pride to your Ruger LCR.
