Yes, much better grip. Still stiff but much more usable compared to relying on just the scallops for traction.
To put it another way: without the band, I had to be cognoscente of how I had my grip on the zoom ring to move it. With my two scopes, it required a c-grip, and was pretty clumsy to actuate. However with the band, I can use two fingers without giving the action much attention.
I should note, I used the smallest ranger band. Only about an inch across when not stretched. I rolled them over the eye piece with a good deal of effort then straightened them out, but they are not going anywhere now that they’re in place.
I haven’t given a throw lever a second thought since installing them.