Understanding Your Grip Needs for the S&W 637
The Importance of Aftermarket Grips
The Smith & Wesson 637, a compact and reliable revolver, has earned a well-deserved reputation as a favorite for concealed carry and personal protection. Its lightweight design and straightforward operation make it an attractive choice. However, the factory grips, while functional, often leave something to be desired. Many owners find that the standard grips are small, not always providing a secure grip, and can be uncomfortable during extended use. This is where aftermarket grips come in, offering a pathway to enhance your shooting experience. Selecting the right Smith & Wesson 637 grips is crucial for optimizing control, comfort, and, ultimately, your accuracy. This guide delves into the world of S&W 637 grip options, exploring the various types, features, and providing recommendations to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Factors to Consider
Before diving into the different types of grips, it’s essential to understand your specific requirements. Let’s start with the factory grips. Typically, these are made of rubber or a similar polymer material. They are usually compact, designed to keep the overall size of the revolver small for concealed carry. While functional, these grips can often feel small, especially for shooters with larger hands. They might not offer the best purchase during rapid firing or under stress. This lack of purchase can impact control and potentially increase the feeling of recoil.
The primary goal of aftermarket Smith & Wesson 637 grips is to address these shortcomings, providing a better fit and feel.
Several factors play a crucial role in your grip selection process. The first is your hand size and grip style. Consider the size of your hands. Do you prefer a full-hand grip, or do you find a smaller grip more comfortable? Your preferred shooting stance and grip technique should also influence your choice.
Another critical consideration is whether you intend to carry the S&W 637 concealed. Bulky grips, while offering improved recoil management, can make the revolver more difficult to conceal effectively. They can cause “printing” – where the outline of the gun becomes visible through your clothing. The ideal concealed carry grip strikes a balance between a secure hold and minimal bulk.
Recoil management is paramount, especially with a lightweight revolver like the S&W 637. The .38 Special cartridge, while manageable, can still produce significant felt recoil, particularly during rapid fire. Grips made from materials that absorb recoil effectively, like rubber, can dramatically improve comfort and control.
Of course, aesthetics and personal preference come into play. Do you prefer a classic, understated look or something more tactical and aggressive? The materials and textures of the grips significantly impact the overall appearance and feel of your firearm.
Finally, think about the materials and durability. Grips are subjected to a lot of handling and environmental conditions. They need to be tough and resilient. Consider how much maintenance a grip requires. Different materials require different types of care to ensure longevity.
Exploring the World of Grip Types for Your S&W 637
Rubber Grips
The market offers a diverse selection of Smith & Wesson 637 grips, each with its unique characteristics. Choosing the right type will greatly impact your comfort, control, and overall shooting experience.
Rubber grips are one of the most popular choices. They’re known for their excellent ability to absorb recoil, making them a favorite among shooters who prioritize comfort. Their pliable nature offers a good degree of grip, even when your hands are wet or sweaty. Rubber grips generally offer a very secure grip, contributing to better control during rapid firing. The feel of rubber is often described as warm and inviting, adding to the overall comfort. Examples of well-regarded rubber grips for the S&W 637 include offerings from Hogue and Pachmayr. These manufacturers design grips specifically to enhance the handling of the J-frame revolvers, like the 637.
However, rubber grips aren’t without their drawbacks. Some can be relatively bulky, potentially making the revolver less easy to conceal. The soft texture of rubber can also make it prone to snagging on clothing when drawing from concealment, especially if the grip isn’t carefully contoured. They may also be a little bit stickier, making them less easy to slide around in your hand.
Wood Grips
Wood grips provide a different aesthetic and feel. They offer a classic, often elegant appearance that can significantly enhance the look of your S&W 637. Wood grips can be made thinner than rubber, which might be preferable if you are seeking a more compact grip for concealed carry. The feel of wood is often described as smooth and natural.
However, wood grips generally offer less recoil absorption than rubber. They may also require more maintenance, such as occasional oiling or polishing, to protect them from moisture and wear. They can be more susceptible to damage from impacts. Examples of respected wood grip manufacturers include Altamont and various custom grip makers, who craft grips to individual specifications.
G10 Grips
G10 grips have grown in popularity in recent years. G10 is a composite material made from layers of fiberglass cloth and epoxy resin. It’s incredibly durable, resistant to moisture, and offers an outstanding grip surface. The textured surface of G10 grips provides excellent control, even in wet conditions. The material is also lightweight, making it a great choice for concealed carry. Furthermore, G10 grips are often available in a wide range of colors and patterns, allowing for customization.
The main disadvantage is the price. G10 grips are often more expensive than rubber or wood options. Some shooters may also find the aggressive texture of some G10 grips too abrasive. Well-known G10 grip brands like VZ Grips and LOK Grips offer high-quality grips that are specifically designed for different shooting applications and hand sizes.
Key Features to Look For in Smith & Wesson 637 Grips
Grip Texture
Beyond the type of grip material, several key features can significantly impact the performance and feel of your Smith & Wesson 637 grips. These features are important to consider to personalize your revolver and optimize your shooting experience.
The grip texture is one of the most critical features. Different textures provide varying levels of grip and comfort. A smooth grip might look aesthetically pleasing, but it might not provide a secure hold in high-stress situations or in wet conditions. Checkered or stippled grips offer a more aggressive grip surface, enhancing control and minimizing slippage. The specific texture that works best depends on your individual preference and how you intend to use the revolver.
Finger Grooves
Finger grooves can be another consideration. Some grips incorporate finger grooves, designed to fit the shooter’s fingers. Finger grooves can improve the grip and help with consistent hand placement. The effect of finger grooves is often subjective. If your hands are a different size than the grip was designed for, you can end up with a grip that is less comfortable.
Grip Length and Size
Grip length and size are also important. A grip that is too short can feel uncomfortable and may not provide enough surface area for a secure hold, especially if you have larger hands. A grip that is too long might interfere with drawing the revolver from concealment. The length of the grip affects how well the shooter can control the firearm and how comfortably it is carried.
Grip Shape
The shape of the grip is a less tangible, but still essential, factor. Different grip shapes can impact the angle and the way your hand sits on the gun. The shape of the grip affects the handling and comfort of the revolver. Different grips will affect how the revolver sits in your hand, which can impact your draw and comfort.
Top Grip Recommendations for Your S&W 637
Best for Concealed Carry
Here are a few recommendations, broken down by category, to help you get started:
The Hogue Bantam Boot Grip. This grip is made of a durable rubber compound that offers a good balance of comfort and control. It is compact and designed to minimize printing. It’s a great choice if you are looking to enhance the grip, while still keeping the overall size of the firearm relatively compact. They provide a secure grip and excellent recoil absorption. The Hogue Bantam grips are reasonably priced and can be easily installed.
Best for Recoil Absorption
The Pachmayr Diamond Pro Grip. Known for their exceptional recoil-absorbing qualities, these rubber grips are excellent for shooters who are sensitive to felt recoil. They feature a unique diamond-pattern texture for enhanced grip. These grips extend down the frame, and provide a full grip. While not as compact as some options, the recoil absorption is greatly improved. You can find these on online retailers like Amazon.
Best Value
The Altamont Classic Panel Grips. Altamont offers a wide range of wood grips at a reasonable price point. These grips offer a stylish aesthetic and a comfortable feel, while still providing good control. You can find many different styles. They provide a noticeable upgrade over the standard grips. They are usually easy to install, and available for purchase on websites such as Brownells.
Remember to check the reviews and compare prices before making your final decision.
Installation and Maintenance of Your New Smith & Wesson 637 Grips
Installing grips on a Smith & Wesson 637 is generally a straightforward process. The majority of aftermarket grips are designed for easy installation. Usually, this is done by removing the screw that secures the existing grips and simply sliding the new ones on.
Different materials need different levels of care. Rubber grips can usually be cleaned with mild soap and water. Wood grips may benefit from the occasional application of gun oil or a wood protectant to maintain their finish. G10 grips are extremely durable, and generally require minimal maintenance; occasional cleaning with a solvent is enough.
In Conclusion
Choosing the right Smith & Wesson 637 grips is a significant step in personalizing your firearm and improving your shooting experience. Selecting the right grip material, texture, and size is critical to finding grips that work for you. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can significantly improve your comfort, control, and accuracy. Experimenting with different grips is often the best way to find the perfect fit. Don’t hesitate to try a few different options to discover what works best for you. Finding grips that are a perfect fit can transform the experience of handling and shooting your S&W 637.
Resources
Amazon (for purchasing grips)
Brownells (for purchasing grips)
Hogue’s website
Pachmayr’s website
Altamont Company website
VZ Grips website
LOK Grips website
