The Advantages of Wood Grips
A Touch of Class and Customized Look
The visual impact of wood grips is undeniable. They instantly add a touch of elegance and sophistication that factory rubber or synthetic grips often lack. Wood, in its natural beauty, offers a visual warmth that complements the stainless steel or blued finish of the GP100 beautifully. The variety of wood types, grain patterns, and finishes allows for a truly personalized look. You can choose grips that are light and bright, dark and dramatic, or somewhere in between, perfectly reflecting your individual style. The beauty of wood is that no two sets of grips are exactly alike, ensuring that your GP100 truly stands out from the crowd. The natural grain patterns of the wood, highlighted by careful finishing, create a tactile and visual experience that plastic simply cannot replicate. Your Ruger GP100 becomes more than just a tool; it becomes a work of art.
The simple act of upgrading to wood grips can significantly enhance the perceived value of your GP100. A firearm with high-quality wood grips often commands a higher price, and the investment in well-crafted grips can be seen as a long-term enhancement to your firearm’s overall value.
Optimized Ergonomics and Comfortable Feel
Beyond aesthetics, wood grips can drastically improve the feel and handling of your GP100. Factory grips, while functional, don’t always fit every hand perfectly. Wood grips, especially those with ergonomic contours or finger grooves, offer a more secure and comfortable grip, essential for accuracy and control, particularly during the recoil of larger calibers. The ability to customize the fit with specific grip styles can make a world of difference in how the gun feels in your hand.
The right wood grip can improve your shooting experience by giving you greater control and a more natural point of aim. You can choose a style and shape that complements your hand size and shooting style. This is particularly important with a handgun like the GP100, where precise control is paramount.
Other Important Considerations
Wood grips are also less likely to get sticky or uncomfortable in warm weather compared to rubber grips. This makes them a great choice for use in warmer climates or during extended range sessions.
Although wood grips can need some maintenance, depending on the finish used, they can also be more durable and resistant to wear than some synthetic materials.
Essential Factors to Consider When Choosing Wood Grips
Exploring the World of Wood Types
The type of wood used in your grips is fundamental. The appearance, durability, and even the feel of the grip is heavily influenced by the wood.
Walnut: A classic choice. Walnut offers a beautiful grain, good strength, and a warm, rich color. It’s a versatile wood that can be stained or finished in a variety of ways.
Rosewood: Known for its reddish-brown hue and striking grain patterns, rosewood is a premium option. It’s naturally oily, making it resistant to moisture and providing a luxurious feel.
Cocobolo: A stunning and dense wood known for its range of colors, from deep red to orange and even hints of purple. Cocobolo is incredibly durable and offers a beautiful, glossy finish.
Maple: Lighter in color, maple can be stained to almost any shade. It has a fine grain and offers a smooth, attractive appearance.
Other Exotic Woods: Many other options exist, from Amboyna Burl to Zebrawood, providing an incredible variety of grain patterns, colors, and textures to make your grips truly unique.
Sustainability is a critical factor, so consider manufacturers that source their wood responsibly. Look for companies that use FSC-certified wood or have sustainable harvesting practices.
Grip Styles and Their Distinct Characteristics
The style of the grip impacts both the appearance and the functionality.
Full-Size Grips: Full-size grips offer the most surface area, which can improve grip and recoil management, especially beneficial for larger hands or powerful loads.
Compact Grips: Compact grips are designed to be smaller and can be easier to conceal. They may not offer as much control but can be more comfortable for smaller hands.
Finger Groove Grips: These grips have molded-in finger grooves that cradle your fingers, promoting a more secure and consistent grip.
Checkered Grips: Checkering, the pattern of small, intersecting lines, provides added grip, particularly in wet or sweaty conditions.
Smooth Grips: Smooth grips offer a sleek, classic look, but may not provide as much grip as checkered options.
Consider your hand size, shooting style, and intended use when selecting a grip style. Experimenting with different styles can help you discover the perfect fit.
Finishes and Their Impact
The finish applied to wood grips plays a crucial role in their appearance, durability, and the way they feel in your hand.
Oil Finishes: Oil finishes enhance the wood’s natural beauty and offer a classic, tactile feel. They require periodic maintenance to keep the finish fresh.
Varnish Finishes: Varnish provides a durable, protective coating that resists scratches and moisture. They offer a glossy look but can be more difficult to repair if damaged.
Urethane Finishes: Urethane finishes are highly durable and waterproof. They offer excellent protection, but may not be as aesthetically pleasing as oil or varnish.
Choosing the right finish will impact how much protection your grips receive, so consider how the grips will be used.
Getting the Right Fit
Proper grip size and fit are critical. A grip that is too large or too small will negatively affect comfort, control, and accuracy.
Measure your hand size: If possible, measure your hand size before purchasing a grip.
Consider your shooting style: A grip that’s perfect for one person might not work for another, so take into account your experience with the GP100 and any preferences you have.
Pre-fit Grips: Most grips are made to fit a specific frame size. Make sure the grips you choose are specifically made for the Ruger GP100.
Custom Fit: Some manufacturers offer custom grip fitting.
Budget and Value
Wood grips vary widely in price, from relatively affordable options to high-end, custom-made sets. Set a budget. High-quality wood grips are an investment, but carefully consider your priorities. A higher-quality set will last longer and potentially offer a better shooting experience.
Top Recommendations and Reviews
Choosing the best grips for your Ruger GP100 is about finding a product that suits your unique preferences and meets your needs. Here are a few well-regarded options, combining the best qualities and features.
Hogue Wood Grips: Hogue is a renowned name in the grips market, and their wood grips for the Ruger GP100 are popular choices. Made from various wood species, these grips often feature comfortable finger grooves and are finished with a durable urethane coating. The ergonomic design provides a secure grip, and the different wood options allows for great customization.
Altamont Wood Grips: Altamont is another reputable manufacturer known for its stylish and affordable grips. They offer grips in a variety of wood types and styles, including checkered and smooth options. Altamont grips are often known for their good fit and visual appeal.
Pachmayr Wood Grips: Known for quality rubber grips, Pachmayr also offers wood grips. While many are made from traditional hardwoods, Pachmayr wood grips provide a blend of classic looks and a comfortable feel.
Each grip style has its own benefits and features. Checkering provides more grip and may be preferable if you shoot in wet or sweaty conditions. Grips made from exotic hardwoods provide an attractive appearance.
Installation and Essential Care
The installation process for wood grips is usually straightforward, often involving simply removing the factory grips and replacing them with the new ones. It is always a good idea to consult the manufacturer’s instructions.
The right wood grips require minimal but regular care.
Cleaning: Wipe down your grips with a soft cloth after use.
Oiling (For Oil Finishes): Apply a thin coat of wood oil to keep the grain protected and looking its best.
Storage: Store your GP100 in a dry location away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures.
Protection: Some grips may require additional protection in specific weather conditions, but most will maintain their appearance with standard care.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Ruger GP100 with wood grips is an investment in both aesthetics and functionality. Wood grips offer a touch of classic elegance, improved ergonomics, and the opportunity to personalize your firearm to reflect your individual style. By carefully considering wood type, grip style, finish, and fit, you can select the perfect set of grips to elevate your shooting experience.
Ultimately, the best Ruger GP100 wood grips are those that feel comfortable and secure in your hand, complement the beauty of your firearm, and contribute to a more enjoyable shooting experience. Explore the various options, compare different products, and don’t be afraid to try out different styles and materials until you find the perfect match.
Ready to transform your GP100? Consider visiting websites such as Brownells, MidwayUSA, and specific grip manufacturer sites to find the ideal wood grips for your Ruger GP100 today. They offer a wide selection to help you find the grips that match your style, handling preferences, and budget. Your perfect set of grips is waiting for you.
