S&W J-Frame Boot Grips
S&W J-Frame Boot Grips
The recoil absorption of rubber, with the carry comfort of wood.
Couldn't load pickup availability
Assembly Video
Product Description
For the ultra-minimalist revolver user who conceal-carries in the pocket: Ultra-concealable boot grips for the Smith & Wesson J-Frame line, optimized for pocket-carry. Recoil Rider grips are the the lightest boot grips available for the J-Frame, plus they absorb recoil with a slim profile and a snag-free draw. They also improve the grip angle of your S&W J-Frame for a more natural point-of-aim. If you're carrying your revolver the pocket, these boot grips will provide a superior shooting and CCW experience.
What is the difference between the CCW Grip and the Boot Grip?
Features
- Absorb recoil: Recoil Rider revolver grips cover the backstrap with a rubbery material that mitigates shock. The hotter the ammo, the greater the reduction in recoil.
- Snag-free: Unlike traditional rubber grips, Recoil Rider revolver grips won't snag your clothing when pocket-carrying.
- Natural point-of-aim: Improved grip angle mitigates the J-Frame's "Point-Down" feeling which required bending the wrist at an unnatural angle.
- Low-Profile: The slimmest and lightest boot grips ever made.
- Optimized trigger reach: Backstrap thickness provides a more natural and comfortable trigger finger placement.
- Lighter weight: Reduce the weight by over an ounce compared to traditional grips, offering the most lightweight boot grips ever made.
Compatibility
-
Boot Grips for J-Frame: Fully Compatible with all internal-hammer S&W J-Frame models including the Ultimate Carry (UC), 642, 442, 632, and 432 Airweights, 340, 342, 640, 940, 40, 42, and 43.
- DAO Only: Compatible with all shrouded hammer S&W J-Frame Humpback models including the S&W 638, 38, 49, 649, and 438 in double action, but not single action.
- Speedloader Clearance: Tested compatible with the HKS 36A Speedloader.
Weight Comparison
- S&W 642/442 Airweight (stock): 15 oz
- S&W 642/442 Airweight (Recoil Rider): 13.7 oz
Sizing Guide

- Standard Fit: Optimized for small and medium-sized hands. If your hand is equal or smaller than the measurements above, choose this size. This size offers the easiest draw for pocket carry due to the narrower width.
- Large Fit: Optimized for larger hands. If you hand is equal or larger than the measurements above, choose this size. This size offers the most recoil reduction due to the wider and thicker backstrap.
- Note that the sizes differ in width and backstrap thickness (not length).
Assembly
If you are having difficulty installing or removing the grip, I recommend heating the grips lightly and evenly with a hair dryer on low heat. This will make them more pliable and easier to install and remove. Do not use excessive or prolonged heat, as this could cause discoloration.
Share

Great feeling grip that absorbs that recoil!
My quest is over! I’m 75 and arthritis in my hands had made it difficult to shoot my beloved J Frames. I had the factory rubber boot grips on my J Frames and they were very narrow and caused a good deal of pain in the web of my hand, even after I switched from +P to standard pressure loads.
I purchased a pair of grips that are currently very popular and they were even worse. The finish on them is very course and covers the entire grip surface. They are the lower set of grips in the attached photo. Note the straight line that begins the speed loader clearance. This also had an abrasive texture and this was where my thumb rested. After 5 shots the skin on the inside of my thumb was gone.
On the Recoil Rider grips (top of photo) the finish is smooth except for texture panels on the flat side panels. Shot with them for the first time today and I shot 35 rounds with no pain and I still have the skin on my thumb,
As far as the pain I used to have on the web of my hand, these are “high horn” grips that are much wider at the top than just the bare frame.
One tip, installation is a little different so read the instructions on their website.
Ordered RecoilRider grips for my J-frame 638 so I could shoot Buffalo Bore 158 grain +P LSWCHPs without busting my hand open. They work great! Superior to stock boot grips, more comfortable than HamreForge grips for shooting this particular load. So far, my absolute favorite J-frame grips. I pocket carry 90% of the time, these feel great in the pocket - lightweight, non tacky feeling, awesome spongy feel. They feel great in the hand and dampen recoil significantly. Super comfortable.
Bought a S&W 640 Performance Center and installed these grips, they dampen .357 recoil out of a snub significantly too. Will absolutely buy more so I don’t have a naked J-frame. 10/10 recommend!
Lightest J frame grips I could find at under one ounce. Grip material is not sticky or too smooth. I have shot about 100 rounds so far and they seem to be holding up. All J frames in my carry rotation now sport these.
As a tip, heat the grips with a blow dryer before installing and they will slip on much easier.