Frontstrap Checkering Alternatives

[parrothead2581]

I'm looking for a better grip on my Custom II via some sort of aftermarket frontstrap checkering. I have tried the tape and found that particular brand to not be sticky enough. While I conced that professional checkering is the way to go, I really don't care to spend a small fortune on this particular modification. Especially should I decide I don't like it.

The insert from Wilson Combat has caught my eye. What are some experiences with it? . Does it scratch the frame? Recent reviews from the Midway catalog seem positive.

Thanks

[CptGonzo]

Hey Parrothead,

I tell ya, I like the insert and it worked well, 'specially for the price:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v518/DerKomet/Firearms/RIA_Nicked_4.jpg

I decided to change though to the Pearce insert to get an even better grip recently, and it helps tremendously (only about $9 from Midway):

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v518/DerKomet/Firearms/Latest_4.jpg

The Pearce is thin enough to install under your current grips and the finger grips feel sturdy and fit my hand perfectly.

HTH

[John]

Rubberized skateboard tape. Can't beat that, the cost is next to zero and it lasts. When you wear it off (if) just change it.

[dakota1911]

Go for Pachmyer grips. Here they are on an old Detonics. I put them on to replace the orig. wood grips. They helped a lot.

http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e193/dakota1911/detonics1r.jpg

And they came new on a less old GCNM made in 1988. When you take off the rubber grips the grooved front of the grip frame is still there.

http://i39.photobucket.com/albums/e193/dakota1911/Colt_GCNMb_r.jpg

[RIATAC45]

+1 on what Cptgonzo said.

I love my Pearse finger groove insert.


http://i155.photobucket.com/albums/s282/RIATAC/IMGP0658.jpg

[HardBoiled]

I usually prefer a checkered front strap as well. However with a pair of Simonich Gunner grips I don't even notice the smooth frontstrap.

They are not for the soft handed though. If you find they are too hard on your hands, you can sand them down some. They even come with sandpaper just for that reason. I prefer them straight up.
http://www.brownells.com/aspx/NS/store/ProductDetail.aspx?p=22397&title=1911+AUTO+SIMONICH+GUNNER+GRIPS

I also tried VZ's grip tape. I found it stayed put though cleanings and use. Once I put the Gunners on though I found I didn't need it anymore.
http://www.vzgrips.com/hardware.html


http://img104.imageshack.us/img104/5658/ballhog039qn3.jpg

[parrothead2581]

Thanks for all of the suggestions guys!

I had almost forgotten about the Pearce insert. My only hesitation with it is that it has the finger grooves. I don't particularly care for those in a CCW.

I found some tread tape at both Home Depot and Lowe's yesterday. The cheapest being about $9 and some change. I don't see myself using that much of it either, but it's certainly cheaper than checkering...and I could always put it on the steps of a ladder. :) Once the tape begins to wear off, or you decide you don't like it anymore, does it ruin the finish when you remove the tape?

Hardboiled, I actually have a set of the Guner Grips and I love them. However, I'm a big fan of wood and tend to swap them out constantly, so a little something on the front would be a big help.

Thanks!

[Rob1035]

parrot-
I've used the tape on a few blued and park'd guns, and never had a problem with finish when removing it.

[parrothead2581]

Thanks Rob. Do you know of any places that sell it in small quantities? The rolls I saw were m ore than I think I would ever use.

[Moose63845]

Try walmart, or a craft shop like hobbylobby or one of them. They may have it, if not a skate board shop will have it but it may cost more there.

[lanceriley]

I suggest you reconsider checkering it's very functional and you wont regret it. Sorry if my pistol isn't the high dollar type....

http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c320/mryu78/ARMORY/DownLeft.jpg

http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c320/mryu78/ARMORY/LeftFlat.jpg

[Sgt.Rock]

Probably free at the skateboard shop for their scrap pieces....

[clintsfolly]

ace hardware has it by the ft stair tread skid tape clint

[Woody_the_Infidel]

The insert from Wilson Combat has caught my eye. What are some experiences with it? . Does it scratch the frame? Recent reviews from the Midway catalog seem positive.
Thanks

They work great for me and don't look bad either. Not sure if it scratches the frame since i have never removed it.

http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p246/chris1911/gun%20stuff/belt_magpouchLarge.jpg

[sycolamb]

parrothead,
Here is some pre-cut tape for the front strap. It's at the bottom of the page.

http://vzgrips.com/hardware.html

[parrothead2581]

sycolamb,

Thanks for the link. I was actually sent a sample of that from Mr. VanZyck (kudos to him and his company), and while it provided a nice grip, it did not want to remain on my pistol. One side would not stick at all so I simply removed it. When removed it did not leave any traces on the frame, and could have easily been put on another pistol.