My search for a quality set of replacement grips for my Ruger single action revolver led me to AltamontCo.com. They make a variety of grips for different firearms, in quite a few different materials. But I was looking for a walnut grip for the Single-Six I recently reviewed. I have a pair of lever action rimfires with walnut stocks, and wanted my single action revolver to match. Also, I was after something a bit more comfortable than the factory grips. Altamont has plenty to choose from, and I found the exact grips I was looking for. Their Ruger Wrangler (XRP) Classic Panel Super Walnut Checkered Fleur-de-Lis is pictured below.
Construction
These $48 grips are CNC machined hardwood for a very clean look and precise fit. Combined with the laser checkering, which includes the Fleur de Lis design, and it’s a very attractive pair of grips. The checkering is deep enough offer some grip, but not quite as sharp as hand cut checkering. So it should work well, and wear well. Finish quality is flawless, with a satiny sheen that is between matte and glossy. And the color adds the perfect amount of warmth and contrast to the blued steel. Just right for a classic western-style revolver. On such a small piece where the checkering takes up a lot of area, some nice grain is still visible.
Installation
A single small flat blade screwdriver is all that’s required for grip replacement. After verifying that the revolver is unloaded, remove the central grip screw. My grips required a bit of prying with a plastic wedge. From there, the Altamont grips are a drop-in replacement. If anything, I think they might even fit a bit better than the factory grips. An included replacement screw was carefully threaded in, and I was done. While I function check is always recommended, it’s difficult to screw this up.
As you can see from the photos, the Altamont grips are slightly thicker than the factory ones. It’s definitely an improvement in comfort for me. And there is no longer the edge on the underside that rubbed my finger the wrong way. Beauty may be in the eye of the beholder, but I think they look great. Much better than the factory grips, which really didn’t look bad, just kind of drab.
Range time
My only concern with the new grips was keeping them looking new. I haven’t found the perfect holster yet, so it’s been transported in a gun rug to prevent scratches. I’m really enjoying the way the new grips fill my hand. Again, the factory ones weren’t terrible, these just suit my hands more. I wish I could say that they resulted in better accuracy, but that’s not what they’re for. Aesthetics and ergonomics were the goal, and that has certainly been achieved.
A bit more about fit
Ruger patterned their new Wrangler single action after their successful Single-Six series. They just made some changes in construction and features to meet a more wallet-friendly pricepoint. Which resulted in runaway sales. And most modern firearms enthusiasts (even those shooting classic single actions) like a bit of personalization. With a revolver, that’s usually grips. Since the Wrangler and Single-Six use the same grips, any grips advertised for one should fit the other. Note that they also offer a wide range of grips for the Heritage Rough Rider revolvers, in addition to most other brands.
About Altamont
With a history of American craftsmanship going back more then 40 years, Altamont’s work is probably familiar to most enthusiasts. As an OEM supplier to most major brands, we’ve seen their work without realizing it. Since 1994, they have provided over 10 million Macassar Ebony Dymondwood handles for the Buck 110 Folding Hunter. The first G10 grips, which appeared on a Kimber 1911, were produced by Altamont. 10/22 fans may recognize the red white and blue laminate Barracuda stock from the USA Shooting Team special edition. There incredible laser metal and wood engraving is demonstrated in the beautiful S&W Model 29 below.
Let’s wrap this up
Despite the fact that .22 LR seems to be selling for ten cents or more per round, it’s still the least expensive option for recreational shooting these days. Which is one of the reasons why Ruger’s Wrangler, with its selling price of around $200, is so popular. Although the Single-Six sells for considerably more, the option of getting the Convertible model with the .22 WMR cylinder makes it desirable too. But the affordability of the Wrangler allows for that customization, and grips top the list for many people. Altamont grips fill that need with their attractive products at fair pricing. Check out their entire product line at Altamontco.com.
I’d like to thank Altamont for providing their grips for this review and evaluation. They are a quality product, produced by American workers, which anyone should feel good about purchasing.